Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Barnard College vs Cornell University

New York, NY · Ithaca, NY · Source: IPEDS federal database

Barnard CollegeCornell University
Acceptance Rate8.0%8.2%
In-State Tuition$66,246$66,014
Out-of-State Tuition$66,246$66,014
Average Net Price$16,313$9,542
Graduation Rate93.0%95.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Barnard College accepts 8.0% of applicants; Cornell University accepts 8.2%. Tuition is close: $66,246 at Barnard College, $66,014 at Cornell University. Six-year graduation rates are close: 93% at Barnard College, 95% at Cornell University.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Barnard College profileCornell University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Barnard College or Cornell University?

Barnard College. It accepts 8.0% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Barnard College or Cornell University more affordable?

Cornell University has lower published tuition: $66,014 versus $66,246. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Cornell University: 95% of students finish in 6 years. Barnard College is at 93%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Barnard College vs Cornell University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax