College Comparison
Cornell University vs Northwestern University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Ithaca, NY
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
26,793
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
16,128
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
7.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1510–1570
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
62,993
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,884
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$32,337
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$62,456
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,456
$62,391
Room & Board
$19,428
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
48.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,779
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,043
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Northwestern University is $5,194 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northwestern University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Cornell University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Northwestern University has a ratio of 6:1. Northwestern University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Cornell University, 48% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,779. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $89,363 for Northwestern University graduates. Graduates from Cornell University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

