College Comparison
Cornell University vs UC Irvine: 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
UC Irvine
Irvine, CA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Cornell | UC Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 8.2%wins | 25.6% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1480–1560wins | N/A |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35 | N/A |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $66,014 | $45,014wins |
| Avg Net Price | $32,337 | $12,840wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $104,043wins | $80,735 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.1%wins | 86.0% |
| Retention Rate | 97.8%wins | 93.8% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 9:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 15,935 | 29,494wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Cornell edges out UC Irvine 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
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 8.2%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1480–1560
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $104,043
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.1%
UC Irvine Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,014
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,840
- ✓Total Enrollment: 29,494
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