Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, is a distinguished Ivy League institution known for its diverse academic offerings and commitment to research and public engagement. With an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 16,071 students as of fall 2023, and a graduate and professional student body of around 10,000, Cornell fosters a vibrant and dynamic community. U.S. News
Cornell comprises several undergraduate colleges and schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Engineering, the School of Hotel Administration, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, the College of Human Ecology, and the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. This structure allows students to pursue a wide array of disciplines, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and exploration. Notable programs span fields such as engineering, business, agriculture, architecture, and the liberal arts.
Admissions at Cornell are highly competitive. For the Class of 2025, the university received 67,380 applications and admitted 5,836 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 8.7%. Successful applicants typically have strong academic records, including high GPAs and rigorous coursework such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. Standardized test scores, while considered, are part of a holistic review process that also evaluates extracurricular involvement, leadership experiences, and personal essays.Ivy Coach
Cornell maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, facilitating close interactions between students and professors. Many classes, particularly in upper-level courses, are small, providing opportunities for personalized learning and mentorship. The university emphasizes research, and students are encouraged to engage in projects across various disciplines, often collaborating directly with faculty members on groundbreaking work.
Given Cornell’s selective admissions process, prospective students should focus on crafting compelling applications that highlight their academic achievements, personal experiences, and alignment with the university’s values. Collaborating with experienced admissions consultants or Statement of Purpose (SOP) editors can provide valuable insights and enhance the quality of application materials.
Cornell University Admissions Statistics (Class of 2025)
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Applicants | 67,380 |
| Students Enrolled | 5,836 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~8.7% |
| Total Undergraduate Enrollment | 16,071 |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | 9:1 |
| Countries Represented | 120+ |
Sources:
- Admissions data: Ivy Coach
- Enrollment and student-to-faculty ratio: U.S. News & World Report
Student Life at Cornell
Ithaca, New York, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Surrounded by gorges, waterfalls, and expansive green spaces, the area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the Finger Lakes region. The town of Ithaca complements the campus environment with its eclectic shops, diverse dining options, and vibrant arts scene, fostering a strong sense of community between students and local residents.
Cornell boasts a wide array of student organizations, with over 1,000 clubs and groups catering to a multitude of interests. Whether students are passionate about entrepreneurship, performing arts, cultural associations, or community service, there are ample opportunities to get involved and build lasting connections. The university also has a significant Greek life presence, with approximately 30% of students participating in fraternities and sororities. While Greek organizations contribute to the social fabric of the campus, they are part of a broader, diverse social landscape that includes numerous other extracurricular activities.Wikipedia
Residential life at Cornell is structured to support students throughout their academic journey. First-year students typically reside on North Campus, which offers a variety of traditional residence halls and themed program houses that focus on areas such as international cultures, music, and environmental awareness. Upper-level students have options to live on West Campus, which features a residential college system designed to foster academic and social engagement, or in off-campus housing in the surrounding Ithaca community. Wikipedia
What’s Good
“The diversity of academic programs allows you to explore multiple interests and even combine majors across different colleges.”
“The campus is stunning, especially in the fall. There are so many outdoor activities to enjoy.”
“Professors are accessible and genuinely interested in helping students succeed.”
What’s Not-So-Great
“Winters can be harsh and long, so be prepared for cold weather.”
“The workload is intense, and time management is crucial to keep up with academic demands.”
“Ithaca is somewhat isolated, so traveling to major cities requires planning and time.”
Admissions Requirements at Cornell University
Cornell employs a holistic admissions process, considering various aspects of an applicant’s profile. Academic performance, including GPA and the rigor of coursework, is critically evaluated. Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) are considered if submitted, though Cornell has adopted a test-optional policy for recent admissions cycles. Extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, personal essays, and letters of recommendation also play significant roles in the evaluation process.
Does Cornell Require the Common App Essay?
Yes, Cornell accepts the Common Application and requires the standard personal statement. Additionally, each undergraduate college or school within Cornell has specific supplemental essay prompts that ask applicants to elaborate on their interest in particular programs and how they align with their academic and career goals.
SAT and ACT Requirements
Cornell has adopted a test-optional policy through at least the 2025 application cycle, meaning that applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. For those who choose to submit, competitive applicants typically present:
SAT: Middle 50% range of 1450–1560
ACT: Middle 50% range of 33–35
If you choose to submit scores, Cornell considers your highest section scores across test dates (superscoring), although policies may vary slightly depending on the specific undergraduate college you apply to. For the most accurate details, always refer to the admissions page of the college within Cornell you are applying to.
GPA Expectations
Cornell does not publish a minimum GPA requirement, but most admitted students have taken the most rigorous courses available to them and performed at the highest level. Unweighted GPAs of 3.9 or higher are typical among successful applicants, especially when combined with strong performance in AP, IB, or honors-level classes. Class rank and contextual performance within your school also play an important role in Cornell’s holistic review process.
Application Strategy
Applying to Cornell requires more than just academic excellence. Each college within the university has a distinct identity, and admissions committees are looking for students who understand that college’s mission and can articulate why it is the right academic home for them. This means your supplemental essay should clearly show how your interests align with what the school offers. Strong writing, a clear sense of purpose, and demonstrated interest in your field of study can make your application stand out.
Cornell does not offer interviews for all applicants, but in some cases, alumni may reach out to conduct informational conversations. These are optional and non-evaluative but can offer insights into the Cornell experience.
If you’re planning to apply, it’s a good idea to work with an experienced proofreader or editor to polish your essays and present your best self. The competition is fierce, and clear, compelling writing can make a difference.
Note: All data and statistics are drawn from Cornell University’s official communications, U.S. News & World Report, and other reputable sources linked throughout this guide. For the most current and specific information, consult Cornell’s undergraduate admissions website.