College Comparison
Cornell University vs Santa Clara 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
Santa Clara, CA
Total Enrollment
26,793
9,728
Undergrad Enrollment
16,128
6,577
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
48.0%
Average GPA
4.00
3.74
SAT Range
1500–1570
1350–1490
ACT Range
33–35
31–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$70
Total Applicants
62,993
18,970
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,884
$76,773
Avg Net Price
$32,337
$50,959
Tuition (In-State)
$62,456
$56,880
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,456
$56,880
Room & Board
$19,428
$19,893
% Receiving Aid
48.0%
71.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,779
$28,368
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
90.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
91.0%
85.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$104,043
$109,183
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Explore by Location
Cornell is in Ithaca, NY
Santa Clara is in Santa Clara, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $50,959 at Santa Clara University. Cornell University is $18,622 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Santa Clara University, the typical SAT range is 1350-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Santa Clara University has a graduation rate of 90%. Cornell University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Cornell University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Santa Clara University has a ratio of 11:1. Cornell 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 Santa Clara University, 71% of students receive aid with an average grant of $28,368.
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $109,183 for Santa Clara University graduates. Graduates from Santa Clara 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. Santa Clara University is located in Santa Clara, CA in a city: midsize setting.

