What is Cornell University's acceptance rate?

Cornell University's acceptance rate is 7.9%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Cornell?

Admitted students typically score about 1470–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Cornell test-optional?

Cornell University's current testing policy is: Test required. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Cornell University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (7.9%)

7.9%

Acceptance rate

1470–1560

SAT (mid 50%)

33–35

ACT (mid 50%)

Test required

Testing

How hard is it to get into Cornell?

With a 7.9% acceptance rate, Cornell University is extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into. It enrolls roughly 15,700 undergraduates (small town setting) in Ithaca, NY. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1470–1560 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 33–35.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.93. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test required. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at Cornell's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $66,000 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Engineering · Hotel Administration · Agriculture · Architecture · ILR

See Cornell’s supplemental essay guide

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Cornell admissions FAQ

What is Cornell University's acceptance rate?: Cornell University's acceptance rate is 7.9%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Cornell?: Admitted students typically score about 1470–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Cornell test-optional?: Cornell University's current testing policy is: Test required. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Cornell official website
Cornell on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Cornell University’s official admissions site.