Side-by-side comparison

Columbia University vs Cornell University

Columbia University and Cornell University are compared below across admissions, cost, rankings, and outcomes. On the metrics both institutions report, Columbia University leads on 7 of 10 comparable fields.

Metric Columbia University Cornell University
Location New York, US Ithaca, US
Admission rate 4.0% 9.0%
SAT average 1,530 1,510
QS World rank #34 #16
THE World rank #20 #18
Median earnings (10yr) $110,100 $91,900
Annual cost $83,304 $80,286
Total students 33,413 25,582
Founded 1754 1865
Completion rate 96.0% 94.0%

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbia University harder to get into than Cornell University?

Columbia University has the lower admission rate. Columbia University: 4.0%. Cornell University: 9.0%.

Which is ranked higher — Columbia University or Cornell University?

Cornell University is ranked higher in the QS World University Rankings. Columbia University: #34. Cornell University: #16.

Which is cheaper — Columbia University or Cornell University?

Cornell University has the lower cost of attendance. Columbia University: $83,304. Cornell University: $80,286. Actual cost depends on family income + aid.

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