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Cornell University Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 24 Sep '24, by Chandra Shekhar (Study Abroad Expert)

Cornell University Admissions
What’s new?

International students can submit an online application through 'Common App' for Cornell University admission 2025 in UG programs. Mentioned below are the admission deadlines for UG and PG applications at the university:

  • Cornell University deadline for undergraduate early decision is Jan 02, 2025
  • The deadline for graduate admission varies by program for students

Check out the below video of Cornell University for more Information:

Cornell University Admission Process 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions

Q:   Why would someone choose Cornell over Harvard?

A: 

As per some of the reviews over unofficial sources, there might be various reasons as to why someone would choose Cornell University over Harvard. After all, selecting a university is not just about rankings or prestige, it is about finding a place where one can thrive and be transformed. When it comes to Ivy League Universities, both Cornell and Harvard shine brightly but each have some unique features. Below-given are some of the reasons as to why would someone choose Cornell over Harvard:

  • Specific Academic Programs: Cornell has some of the top-ranked programs that are not offered at Harvard such as the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, School of Hotel Administration, College of Human Ecology. These colleges / school of Cornell and renowned in their respective fields.
  • Campus Environment: Harvard University provides vibrant, urban setting of Cambridge, while Cornell University provides a contrasting experience with its location in scenic Ithaca, New York. Cornell’s expansive campus, surrounded by gorges and nature, provides an immersive collegiate experience.
  • Undergraduate Focus: Even though both universities are known for research, some believe that Cornell University’s undergraduate community means a heightened focus on undergraduate education. This means more research opportunities, leadership roles, and direct academic engagement for undergraduates.

Q:   Does Cornell University require IELTS?

A: 

Yes, international students are required to have a strong command of English language in order to be successful in their engagement in their university studies. IELTS as an English language proficiency score is accepted by Cornell University. The minimum ELP requirements for admissions are given below:

Undergraduate: To be most competitive, following minimum scores are required for admission to Cornell University UG courses:

Tests

Minimum Scores

TOEFL iBT

100

Duolingo

120 and above

IELTS Academic

7.5 and above

PTE Academic

70 and above

In the case of graduate programme admissions, the accepted ELP exams are TOEFL and IELTS. It is advised to check the official website to know the exact minimum scores for admission to graduate courses.

Q:   How does one get into Cornell University for Computer Science?

A: 

Like any competitive programme, getting into Cornell University's computer Science department involves meticulous planning and preparation. The following are essential actions to boost your admissions prospects:
Academic Excellence: Keep up a stellar record in your classes, particularly in maths, physics, and computer science. To show that you are prepared academically, aim for a high GPA and enrol in difficult courses.
Standardised Tests: Get ready for and take any applicable SAT Subject Tests, in addition to the ACT or SAT. Aim for scores that are competitive with those of previously admitted students, although scoring criteria can differ.
Extracurricular Activities: Get involved in computer science and technology-related extracurriculars including robotics teams, hackathons, and code clubs. Achievements and leadership positions can improve your application.
Recommendation letters: Obtain solid recommendation letters from mentors or instructors who can attest to your skills and potential in the field of computer science.

Q:   What is your review of Cornell University?

A: 

Cornell University is an epicenter of academic achievement, known for its demanding programs and exceptional faculty. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees, the university provides a thorough education in multiple subject areas. Cornell's dedication to innovative research is demonstrated by its contributions to engineering, computer science, agriculture, and life sciences, offering students chances never before seen to participate in significant research initiatives. The Cornell campus, which is located in the charming town of Ithaca, New York, is renowned for its breathtaking natural features, which include waterfalls, gorges, and a blend of modern and historic architectural wonders.

Cornell University MS Admission 2025

47 courses 12 months - 5 years
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17.5L - 54.9L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Accepting Exams: IELTS, TOEFL, GRE
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Commonly asked questions
On MS Admissions

Q:   Is GRE required for MS in CS at Cornell University?

A: 

GRE scores for admission to MS in CS at Cornell University are not required and the university does not review them at the time of applications. Other application requirements for Cornell University admissions to MS in CS are:

  • A bachelor’s degree in CS is required but the applicants who have majored in other field and minored in CS shall be fully considered
  • The applicants must have a proven record of excellence as an undergraduate grader / TA in CS course
  • Experience as an UG researcher is highly recommended
  • Academic transcripts
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • An essay
  • IELTS with a score of 7.0 or higher / TOEFL scores on all sections except Speaking must be 24 or higher and 28 or higher for Speaking

Also Read: MS in Computer Science in USA

Q:   How long is Cornell Masters in Engineering Management?

A: 

Cornell University MEng in Engineering Management is of one year duration. The application requirements for this course are:

Cornell University Application Process 2025

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process

Q:   How can I apply to Cornell University from India?

A: 

Indian students aiming to get admission to Cornell University must meet the admission requirements for undergraduate or graduate courses. Given below are Cornell University admission requirements for international students:

Undergraduate Courses

  • The applicants are required to have official high school transcripts. The university needs official high school / secondary school transcripts for grades 9-11 and 12th grades in-progress (English translation)
  • Mid-year report / transcript (only required if the applicants are yet to complete Class 12)
  • Supplemental materials (As required by course)
  • SAT / ACT test scores (Test-optional for 2024 applicants)
  • School report
  • Counselor letter of recommendation
  • Two teacher recommendations

Graduate Courses

  • Indian applicants aiming to get admission to Cornell University graduate courses, should have a bachelor’s degree and / or master’s degree / any professional exam and / or membership (as required)

Doctoral and Research Master’s Degrees

  • The applicants are required to have at least 4-year undergraduate degree, or a 3-year degree + post-graduate Diploma

Professional Master’s Degree Programs

  • The applicants are required to have a 3-year’s bachelor’s degree if your school is accredited by NAAC and has a grade of A, and if their class rank is Division I and II 

Also Read: Requirements to Study in USA for International Students 

Q:   How do I apply to Cornell University?

A: 

Undergraduate students applying to Cornell University can apply via Common Application. Cornell University application fee for UG students is USD 80 (Around INR 6,700). Graduate applicants can first set up ApplyWeb Cornell account and then go to the online application to begin the application process. The application fee for international students is USD 105 (Around INR 8,800) (exceptions can be there). Along with the application, make sure the required documents like academic transcripts, ELP test scores, letter of recommendations, standardized test scores (as applicable), etc. are also submitted to complete the application process.

Note: The above-given currency conversion rate is as per 1 USD = INR 83.18

Also Read: College / Application Process for USA

Cornell University Enrollment Statistics for Undergraduate 2023

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Commonly asked questions
On Admission

Q:   How can I increase my chances of getting into Cornell University?

A: 

In order to increase the chances of getting into Cornell University, the university has recommended some of the below-given points before applying to:

  • Understanding the academic requirements
  • Start early when it comes to applying to the university
  • Get to know what the university is looking for and complete the supplement portion of Cornell University with purpose
  • Also, check the email regularly in order to know the important information and updates
  • Next, check the application status online
  • Lastly, submit the proper required portfolio or design supplements

At the time of review of the applications, Cornell University considers the following points in the application: intellectual potential, involvement (extracurricular activities, work experience, community engagement, etc.), character, reasons for choosing Cornell University, reasons for choosing a particular subject.

Q:   Is Cornell University hard to get into?

A: 

Cornell University is a very competitive university when it comes to admissions. Its acceptance rate is a proof of that. Cornell University acceptance rate is 7.9%. As per the news mentioned on the university's official website, a total of 4,994 students were admitted for the Class of 2027, out of which, 3,324 Regular Decision students and 1,670 are Regular Decision students.

On the contrary, sccording to the facts stated over the official website of the university, a total of 3,561 students are admitted to the UG Class of 2027 out of 67,846 applications. Since Cornell University is one the top universities of USA, naturally, it is very selective at the time of admissions. Some of the factors that are considered at the time of Cornell University admissions are:

  • Intellectual potential
  • Involvement in extracurricular activities, work experience, community engagement, family responsibilities, etc.
  • Character: The value that are looked into are honesty, initiative, open-mindedness, empathy, curiosity, collaboration, etc.
  • Reasons to choose Cornell
  • Reasons to choose specific college / school the applicants are applying to

Also Read: What are Ivy League Universities in USA?

Cornell University
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.4/5
Verified Icon5 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Vibe of Campus
  • Academically oriented
  • Multi-dimensional
  • Friendly
  • Liberal
Student Views
  • 40% students never faced discrimination in this university
Internships4.2
Part time work4.8
Post study jobs4.6
Quality of faculty4.8
Student Life4.2
Value for money4.4
Public transportation4.4
Safety4.8
Indian Food3.8
Permanent Immigration3.8
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science - Batch of 2027
4.5
Big campus with diverse population.
Tips: Cornell has a really big campus and an even bigger student population. There are more than 15,000 undergraduates, so you can always find your community and close friends. I did not face a big cultural shock as I was able to connect with people really well and got along with them. Before applying to Cornell, definitely research about the major you are going to apply at Cornell. Look at the clubs you are interested in and the professors with whom you would love to research with. For people applying from India, there is TATA scholarship and you are nominated for it after you submit the CSS form. I am really satisfied with my experience so far at Cornell and with my major courses that I have taken. Exploring more of this place gives me new ventures each time. Interacting with professors has helped me strategies my preparation strategy for exams and in general for the class.
Likes (Part time work): It is easy to find an on-campus job at Cornell as they have their own hiring website which makes the process hassle-free. There are a lot of jobs available on campus such as in libraries, cafes, dining halls, TA positions, RA positions, etc. I am not sure about the off-campus jobs as it utilizes CPT. The part-time work is manageable along with the school work as you are only working around 6-10 hours/week. The average payout for the job is 15-18/hr depending on where you are working.
Dislikes (Student Life): An average day of mine includes going to classes, helping students in classes as a teaching student and then studying at a library, preferably Olin or Uris Library. There were a lot of events during the orientation week, and I found most of my friends during that period. I also attended a few Indian events like Garba night, Diwali night where I can find my own community and have fun with my friends. There are numerous opportunities on campus to get involved with student clubs. Like, I am currently in the Blockchain club which deals with blockchain, ethereum, crypto-related things where we find new information and learn with peers.
Reviewed on 9 Apr 2024Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering - Batch of 2025
4.3
The professors are helpful and guide you through.
Tips: To transfer from undergraduate to graduate school is a significant shift as in graduate school you need to do everything on your own but the professors here guide you throughout the process. It is very rare to get a scholarship for master's unless you do a Ph.D. degree.
Likes (Public transportation): The campus is well connected as we have the city buses called TCAT that run through the campus and connect different parts of the city to different parts of campus. The public transport is free for the first year using the Cornell card and after that, we need to pay an annual fee of 200 dollars.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There are very few Indian restaurants around (just three). We have more fast food joints with few vegetarian options. We prefer cooking at home. There are some Indian grocery stores nearby so it is easier to get groceries and make the food at home if you are a vegetarian.
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2024Read more
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M
Mahira Pathan Verified Icon
M.Eng. in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
3.4
De-stereotyping Cornell and Navigating the Job Hunt
Tips: The job application process in the US is quite cumbersome. The culture is vastly different compared to Asian countries. There are several research opportunities and professors are open to taking in students even after their first semester. Prepare to work on an assignment for at least 2 full weeks because there might be errors that are commonly occurring for the whole class.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty are very passionate about their field of teaching. They are mostly affiliated to some or the other company which enables them to have various research opportunities for students. Most professors are willing to spend time outside of class to clarify doubts.
Dislikes (Student Life): The students get really busy and there is not enough time to spend on other activities. Finding your community and groups that align with your interests is important in order to continue pursuing your interests. There are a lot of cultural events and hackathons that take place which connect you with industry professionals.
Reviewed on 19 Mar 2024Read more
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Arhan Choudhury Verified Icon
M.Eng. in Computer Science - Batch of 2024
4.7
Amazing university for anyone who wants to do computer science or engineering in general.
Tips: The curriculum is very rigorous and the assignments are time consuming. The roads on campus are very steep as it is situated on top of a hill. There is surely a cultural shift as there are not a lot of Indian students here. Overall I am satisfied with the university and my course.
Likes (Student Life): I have classes and then spend the rest of my day doing problem sets. The campus is really beautiful. There are several events on campus like cultural, music, career, sports etc. Several companies visit the campus on a regular basis. There are various sports that are played on campus like football, lacrosse etc.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There are 2 Indian restaurants in Collegetown. Additionally there is an Indian store in Collegetown as well. I prefer a mix of both cooking and eating out. For cooking at home you can order from Walmart+, and you can get groceries and various other hour items delivered to your doorstep.
Reviewed on 5 Oct 2023Read more
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S
Saurabh Verified Icon
MEng in Operations Research and Information Engineering - Batch of 0
5
Cornell has a great engineering program and all the top companies come to recruit students.
Tips: I lived abroad before moving to this college so I had a bit of an easier transition. Cornell is a great university with good career options in post-graduation. I was quite satisfied with the degree. There is a big Indian population at Cornell. The professors are dedicated to helping the students achieve their career goals.
Likes (Permanent Immigration): The campus is beautiful and there are lots of activities to do in Ithaca. I enjoyed hiking around Ithaca, slope day and going to the restaurants in the area. There is an Indian Students Club as well. There are lots of planes to go for exercise as well and different sports such as squash, tennis, soccer etc. I would highly recommend Cornell.
Dislikes (Quality of faculty): The faculty is very accessible and the classes have more projects than other universities. This leads to a more hands-on experience. Cornell is very diverse with teachers from countries all over the world. It is a world-class Ivy League institution.
Reviewed on 12 May 2023Read more
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Cornell University Admissions 2025 FAQs

Q:   What is Tata Scholarship for Cornell University?

A: 

The Tata Scholarship Fund supports around 20 scholars at any point in time and make sure that top Indian students have access to Cornell University, regardless of their financial conditions. These scholarships are awarded annually and recipients receive this scholarship for the duration of their UG studies at Cornell. To receive this UG scholarship, the applicants must fulfill the below-given eligibility requirements:

  • The recipient must be an Indian citizen who has attended secondary school in India
  • Offered admission to Cornell University as an undergraduate student
  • Eligible for need-based financial aid

Preference is given to the following students accepted to the below-given programs:

  • College of Engineering
  • College of Architecture, Art and Planning
  • Applied Economics and Management major
  • Majors across colleges in Physical Sciences, Biological Sciences, and other Sciences, as well as the Social Sciences

Application Process for Tata Scholarship

  • UG students eligible for Tata Scholarship shall be considered if they complete the admission application and apply for financial aid. All the applicants must apply for financial aid by completing the CSS profile

Also Read: Scholarships to Study to USA

Q:   What is the fees of Cornell University in Indian rupees?

A: 

According to U.S. News & World Report, Cornell University tuition is USD 66,014. When compared with the national average cost of tuition fee which is CAD 43,477, Cornell University is more expensive. Cornell University cost for international students can be checked from the table given below:

Courses

1st Year Tuition Fees

MBA/PGDM (15 courses)

INR 17 L - 1 Cr

MS (46 courses)

INR 17 L - 54 L

BE / BTech (13 courses)

INR 49 L - 54 L

MEng (13 courses)

INR 49 L - 54 L

BSc (20 courses)

INR 49 L - 52 L

MA (14 courses)

INR 17 L - 32 L

BA (31 courses)

INR 49 L

BBA (6 courses)

INR 49 L - 52 L

MIM (9 courses)

INR 17 L - 52 L

M.Arch (6 courses)

INR 25 L - 54 L

BE3 (1 course)

INR 33 L

Cost of Living: An estimate for Cornell University international students for 2023-24 is given below:

Type of Students

Expenses

Undergraduate

USD 25,038

Graduate

USD 37,165

Also Read: Cost of Living in USA for International Students 

Q:   What does it feel like to attend Cornell University?

A: 

According to some of student reviews at Cornell University, following are the inputs of students:

  • The physical environment i.e. the campus is too beautiful
  • The atmosphere of attending a great university
  • Access to different type of people with varied backgrounds

Q:   What are the best reasons to attend Cornell University?

A: 

Cornell University is located in picturesque town of Ithaca, New York. It offers students an unique and compelling blend of academics, vibrant campus life, and a varied range of opportunities. Some of the best reasons to attend Cornell University are:

  • World-class academics: A multitude of discipline are there at Cornell University. Whether the applicants are interested in Hospitality, Agriculture, Engineering, or the Arts, the university offers rigorous programs that are consistently ranked among the best in the world
  • Beautiful campus and location: Ithaca does not have just the gorges. Also, the campus of Cornell University and its surrounding areas offers students a calm environment for study and recreation.
  • Global Perspective: With a diverse student body, attending Cornell University allows students to be a part of global community, and thereby expanding their horizons.
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Chandra Shekhar

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With over 6 years of overall work experience in Content Writing, Chandra Shekhar has worked on various content writing profiles like Technical and Education-based. He has been involved in writing for higher education and abroad studies for more than ...Read Full Bio

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Cornell University
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Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
Ithaca ( New York)

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