leap-scholar-logo
hamburger-menu

Cornell University

University cover image

Cornell University Overview

Ithaca - USA

"In 1865, entrepreneur Ezra Cornell and educator Andrew Dickson White came together to establish Cornell University. This dynamic partnership laid the foundation for a truly remarkable institution."


Cornell University, established in 1865, was founded by entrepreneur Ezra Cornell and educator Andrew Dickson White. Their collaboration resulted in the establishment of this esteemed institution.


Cornell has a diverse student body, with over 24,000 undergraduates and graduates from 150 countries. It provides a dynamic learning environment for students.

 

The university has two intakesSpring intake and Fall intake. 

 

The campus is large and has a mix of nature and academics. Most buildings are on East Hill, and many colleges are on West Campus. Collegetown is where students socialise. 


Ever dreamed of studying in the US but are worried about the money? The Tata Scholarship at Cornell has you covered! This super exciting scholarship by the Tata folks helps talented Indian students like YOU study at Cornell, no matter how much money your family has.

 

Here's the key detail: with a whopping USD25 million fund, they support around 20 scholars at a time. That means you will be part of a great group of Tata Scholars, all bright students who can support each other through challenging classes. Additionally, the scholarship covers all of your tuition and fees!

 

According to the QS World University Rankings, Cornell University ranked #16 for 2025.

 

Cornell University is one of the Ivy League universities in USA

 

Here are some key highlights of the university:

 

Founded In1865
Total Number of Students24,000+
Total Countries Represented150
QS World Ranking 2025#16
Total Campus3
Application FeesUSD 80 or INR 6,679
AccreditationAACSB and Middle States Commission

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

cta-banner

Get step by step guidance to reach your

Dream University

Over 87% students move abroad with Leap Counselling. Get expert study abroad help today!

Book a free Counselling Session

Scholarships

Deadline

2023-04-01

Awarded

10

Amount

₹13.72L

Deadline

2022-04-28

Awarded

10

Amount

₹7.74L

Deadline

2023-09-01

Awarded

Varies

Amount

₹24.45L

Similar Universities
university-logo

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

flag

USA | Cambridge - Massachusetts

#1 in Global QS Ranking

Fees: $19,895 USD Approximately

Established: 1861

#97 in Global QS Ranking

Fees: Fees depends on which course you choose.

Established: 1885

university-logo

Boston College

flag

USA | Boston

#374 in Webometrics - World

Fees: $62950 USD approx

Established: 1863

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about Cornell University
Q. Is Cornell an Ivy League college?

Ans. Yes, Cornell University is an Ivy League college. It's one of the eight prestigious universities in the Ivy League athletic conference, known for academic excellence, highly selective admissions, and rich history. Ivy League universities consistently rank high nationally and globally, attracting top students and faculty.

Q. Is Cornell very expensive?

Ans. Cornell University is considered expensive, estimated at around INR 57L (USD 68,380) for undergraduates (2024-25). However, the university offers generous financial aid packages, meeting 100% of the demonstrated financial need for admitted students. This means that for many students, the actual cost of attending Cornell can be significantly lower than the actual cost.

Q. Why Cornell University is so famous?

Ans. Cornell consistently ranks as one of the top universities and offers challenging classes taught by excellent teachers. As a member of the Ivy League, Cornell is part of a group of top universities from which the best are selected. With students from over 150 countries, you will meet people from all over the world.


 

Q. How much is the tuition fee in Cornell University?

Ans. Cornell University's tuition can be expensive, but financial aid is available.  The estimated cost of attendance for undergraduates in 2024-2025 is around INR 57L (USD 68,380). This includes tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses. Cornell offers generous need-based financial aid. They aim to meet 100% of the demonstrated financial need for admitted undergraduates.

Q. Is Cornell worth the money?

Ans. Cornell's worth depends on your circumstances, including your financial situation, career goals, and the value you place on an Ivy League education. Explore financial aid options and weigh the benefits against the cost to make an informed decision.


 

Q. How can an Indian get into Cornell University?

Ans. Getting into Cornell as an Indian student requires academic excellence and strategic planning. Aim for high marks in your CBSE or ISC examsSAT/ACT scores are currently test-optional (required for Fall 2026 onwards). Take the TOEFL or IELTS (if required) and aim for a high score. Craft a strong essay highlighting your unique talents, interests, and why Cornell is the perfect fit.


 

Q. What is the acceptance rate for Cornell University for Indian students?

Ans. Cornell University's acceptance rate can vary slightly from year to year, and there's no official data available specifically for Indian students. However, the acceptance rate hovers around 7% to 8%, making it highly competitive. The acceptance rate for international students is generally higher than the overall rate, estimated to be around 17% for Early Decision applicants and potentially around 24% overall.


 

Q. Is Cornell the easiest Ivy to get into?

Ans. Cornell's acceptance rate is generally higher than other Ivy League schools but is still very selective.  Cornell is statistically considered the "easiest" Ivy to get into, with an acceptance rate of around 7- 8% compared to others that can go below 5%. Acceptance is still very competitive, requiring strong academics, impressive extracurriculars, and a compelling application.

Q. How many international students does Cornell accept?

Ans. There isn't a publicly available dataset that reveals the exact number of international students Cornell accepts each year. Roughly 26% of the overall student body at Cornell University is international. Cornell has around 15,000 undergraduate students, roughly 3,900 of whom could be international (26% of 15,000). 


 

Q. Is it hard to get into Cornell as an international student?

Ans. Yes, getting into Cornell as an international student is challenging but not necessarily harder than for domestic students. The acceptance rate for international students might be slightly higher than the overall rate. Regardless of origin, you'll need top grades, impressive extracurriculars, and a compelling application to stand out.


 

Q. Does Cornell give scholarships to Indian students?

Ans. Cornell University offers financial aid to Indian students, though not specifically merit scholarships for first-year undergraduates. Cornell focuses on need-based financial aid, meaning they award grants and scholarships based on your demonstrated financial need. There's a prestigious Tata Scholarship for Indian undergraduate students, covering full tuition and fees for around 20 scholars.


 

Q. Does Cornell MS CS require a GRE?

Ans. As of Fall 2024, Cornell's Master of Science in Computer Science (MS CS) program no longer requires applicants to submit GRE scores. The admissions committee for the MS CS program will not consider GRE scores when making decisions about applicants.

Q. Is Cornell University good for masters?

Ans. Cornell University is highly regarded for its Master's programs. Many of Cornell's Master's programs consistently achieve high national and global rankings, demonstrating academic excellence. Explore a wide range of Master's programs in various fields tailored to your specific interests.


 

Q. Is Cornell good for MS in computer science?

Ans. Cornell University offers an excellent Master's in Computer Science program. The program ranks high nationally and globally, indicating its strong academic reputation. Students can learn from renowned professors who are pioneers in computer science research. Additionally, students can tap into a vast network of successful Cornell CS alumni for career opportunities.


 

Q. What is the fees for MS CS in Cornell University?

Ans. The tuition for Cornell University's MS in Computer Science (MS CS) program is the same for all students regardless of nationality. The estimated cost of attendance for the 2024 academic year is around INR 24L (USD 29,500) for tuition only. Cornell offers financial aid options for graduate students, including fellowships and assistantships.


 

Q. What is Cornell Applied Economics and Management ranked?

Ans. Cornell's School of Applied Economics and Management, also known as the Dyson School, is recognised as a top program in the nation for applied economics and management. U.S. News & World Report ranked Dyson #8 in its ranking of Business Programs in 2022. With over 11,395 alumni, the Dyson School boasts a successful network of graduates making a positive impact worldwide.


 

Q. Does Cornell have MS in data science?

Ans. Cornell University does not offer a traditional Master's in Data Science program, but they do provide a program with a strong data science focus. This Master of Professional Studies (MPS) program in Applied Statistics equips students with high-level data analytical skills that are highly sought after in data science fields.


 

Talk to an expert