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College Comparison

Cornell University vs University of Chicago

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Cornell University
#21
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Private
University of Chicago
#12
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Ithaca, NY

Chicago, IL

Total Enrollment

26,793

18,566

Undergrad Enrollment

16,128

7,598

Student-Faculty Ratio

9:1

5:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

8.8%

4.5%

Average GPA

4.00

4.00

SAT Range

1500–1570

1510–1580

ACT Range

33–35

34–35

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$80

$75

Total Applicants

62,993

43,612


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$81,884

$81,288

Avg Net Price

$32,337

$18,967

Tuition (In-State)

$62,456

$61,179

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$62,456

$61,179

Room & Board

$19,428

$20,109

% Receiving Aid

48.0%

47.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$61,779

$62,300


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

96.0%

96.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

91.0%

91.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

99.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$104,043

$91,885

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Cornell is in Ithaca, NY

Chicago is in Chicago, IL

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Frequently Asked Questions

Cornell University has an acceptance rate of 9%, while University of Chicago has an acceptance rate of 4%. This means University of Chicago is more selective than Cornell University.

The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $18,967 at University of Chicago. University of Chicago is $13,370 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Chicago, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%. University of Chicago has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Cornell University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while University of Chicago has a ratio of 5:1. University of Chicago 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 University of Chicago, 47% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,300.

The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $91,885 for University of Chicago 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. University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting.