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Cornell University vs Washington and Lee University

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

Cornell University
#21
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Private
Washington and Lee University
#41
Washington and Lee University
Lexington, VA
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Ithaca, NY

Lexington, VA

Total Enrollment

26,793

2,241

Undergrad Enrollment

16,128

1,886

Student-Faculty Ratio

9:1

7:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

8.8%

14.0%

Average GPA

4.00

3.91

SAT Range

1500–1570

1430–1540

ACT Range

33–35

33–34

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$80

$60

Total Applicants

62,993

8,213


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$81,884

$79,275

Avg Net Price

$32,337

$23,911

Tuition (In-State)

$62,456

$60,590

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$62,456

$60,590

Room & Board

$19,428

$18,685

% Receiving Aid

48.0%

64.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$61,779

$63,945


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

96.0%

94.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

91.0%

91.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

97.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$104,043

$94,810

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Cornell is in Ithaca, NY

Washington and Lee is in Lexington, VA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Cornell University has an acceptance rate of 9%, while Washington and Lee University has an acceptance rate of 14%. This means Cornell University is more selective than Washington and Lee University.

The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $23,911 at Washington and Lee University. Washington and Lee University is $8,426 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Washington and Lee University, the typical SAT range is 1430-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Washington and Lee University has a graduation rate of 94%. 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 Washington and Lee University has a ratio of 7:1. Washington and Lee 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 Washington and Lee University, 64% of students receive aid with an average grant of $63,945.

The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $94,810 for Washington and Lee 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. Washington and Lee University is located in Lexington, VA in a town: distant setting.