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College Comparison

Cornell University vs University of Washington: 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 Washington

Seattle, WA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricCornellUW Seattle
Acceptance Rate8.2%wins42.5%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1480–1560winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)33–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$66,014$41,997wins
Avg Net Price$32,337$13,485wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$104,043wins$78,466
Graduation Rate95.1%wins83.7%
Retention Rate97.8%wins94.9%
Student–Faculty Ratio9:1wins20:1
Total Enrollment15,93531,588wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Cornell edges out UW Seattle 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%

UW Seattle Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $41,997
  • Avg Net Price: $13,485
  • Total Enrollment: 31,588

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