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College Comparison

Cornell University vs University of Michigan: 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

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricCornellUniversity of Michigan
Acceptance Rate8.2%wins17.9%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1480–1560wins1350–1530
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–35wins31–34
Tuition (Out-of-State)$66,014$58,072wins
Avg Net Price$32,337$14,832wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$104,043wins$83,648
Graduation Rate95.1%wins93.2%
Retention Rate97.8%wins97.6%
Student–Faculty Ratio9:1wins11:1
Total Enrollment15,93533,488wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Cornell edges out University of Michigan on 7 of 10 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
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $104,043

University of Michigan Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,072
  • Avg Net Price: $14,832
  • Total Enrollment: 33,488

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