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Cornell University and Colgate University are both private nonprofit institutions — Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and Colgate University in Hamilton, NY. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Ithaca, NY · Private
Acceptance rate: 8.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 15,995
Tuition: $69,314/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 95.4%
Top programs: Computer science, Engineering, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Ithaca, NY with published program strength in Computer science and Engineering.
Hamilton, NY · Private
Acceptance rate: 13.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,180
Tuition: $70,306/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 91.2%
Top programs: Social sciences, Biological sciences, Computer science
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Hamilton, NY with published program strength in Social sciences and Biological sciences.
| Factor | Cornell University | Colgate University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 8.8% | 13.9% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1500–1570 |
| 1430–1540 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 33–35 | 33–34 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 15,995 | 3,180 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $69,314/year | $70,306/year |
| Average net price after aid | $28,690 | $28,786 |
| Graduation rate | 95.4% | 91.2% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $104,043 | $85,139 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Ithaca, NY | Hamilton, NY |
| Largest program areas | Computer science, Engineering, Business and marketing | Social sciences, Biological sciences, Computer science |
Cornell University is more selective (8.8% vs 13.9% acceptance rate). Cornell University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($28,690 vs $28,786). Cornell University reports the higher graduation rate (95.4% vs 91.2%). Cornell University is the larger undergraduate campus (15,995 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Cornell University and Colgate University
Cornell University has an acceptance rate of 8.8%; Colgate University is around 13.9%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Cornell University tuition is $69,314/year. Colgate University is $70,306/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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