College Comparison
Cornell University vs Northeastern University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
School
Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Cornell | Northeastern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 8.2%wins | 9.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1480–1560wins | 1460–1550 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $66,014 | $63,141wins |
| Avg Net Price | $32,337 | $32,116wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $104,043wins | $92,538 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.1%wins | 90.4% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 97.5% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 9:1wins | 16:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 15,935wins | 15,719 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Cornell edges out Northeastern on 7 of 9 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Cornell Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 8.2%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1480–1560
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $104,043
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.1%
Northeastern Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,141
- ✓Avg Net Price: $32,116
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.