Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Columbia University vs Cornell University

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

Columbia UniversityCornell University
Acceptance Rate4.2%8.2%
In-State Tuition$69,045$66,014
Out-of-State Tuition$69,045$66,014
Average Net Price$16,526$9,542
Graduation Rate95.0%95.0%

GradFax Analysis

Columbia University accepts 4.2% of applicants. Cornell University accepts 8.2%. Columbia University's tuition is $69,045. Cornell University's is $66,014. Cornell University is cheaper. Six-year graduation rates are close: 95% at Columbia University, 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 →Columbia University profileCornell University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Columbia University or Cornell University?

Columbia University. It accepts 4.2% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Columbia University or Cornell University more affordable?

Cornell University has lower published tuition: $66,014 versus $69,045. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Nearly the same. Columbia University is at 95%; Cornell University is at 95%.

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.

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