Side-by-side comparison

Harvard University vs Cornell University

Harvard University and Cornell University are compared below across admissions, cost, rankings, and outcomes. On the metrics both institutions report, Harvard University leads on 9 of 10 comparable fields.

Metric Harvard University Cornell University
Location Cambridge, US Ithaca, US
Admission rate 3.0% 9.0%
SAT average 1,530 1,510
QS World rank #4 #16
THE World rank #5 #18
Median earnings (10yr) $131,000 $91,900
Annual cost $78,200 $80,286
Total students 30,391 25,582
Founded 1636 1865
Completion rate 97.0% 94.0%

Frequently asked questions

Is Harvard University harder to get into than Cornell University?

Harvard University has the lower admission rate. Harvard University: 3.0%. Cornell University: 9.0%.

Which is ranked higher — Harvard University or Cornell University?

Harvard University is ranked higher in the QS World University Rankings. Harvard University: #4. Cornell University: #16.

Which is cheaper — Harvard University or Cornell University?

Harvard University has the lower cost of attendance. Harvard University: $78,200. Cornell University: $80,286. Actual cost depends on family income + aid.

Which one fits YOU better? Run MyFit to see your personalised score for both.

Try MyFit →