College Comparison
Cornell University vs Northwestern 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
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Cornell | Northwestern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 8.2% | 7.1%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1480–1560 | 1490–1560wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $66,014 | $65,997wins |
| Avg Net Price | $32,337 | $27,143wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $104,043wins | $89,363 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.1% | 95.9%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 97.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 9:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 15,935wins | 8,960 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Cornell on 6 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $104,043
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.8%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 15,935
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 7.1%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1560
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $65,997
- ✓Avg Net Price: $27,143
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