Cornell University: Is It Worth It?
Ithaca, New York · Private Nonprofit · Website
ROI Score
8.1
Net Price/Year
$28,690
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$104,043
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$14,000
at graduation
Is Cornell University Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $104,043 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $28,690 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $114,760.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 1.1 years.
The median graduate leaves with $14,000 in debt, which represents about 13%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
8.8%
Avg SAT
1535
ACT Midpoint
34
Enrollment
15,995
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
95.3%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
98.4%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
313700.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$69,314
Out-of-State Tuition
$69,314
Avg Net Price
$28,690
After grants/scholarships
Similar Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cornell University worth the money?
Based on federal data, Cornell University graduates earn a median of $104,043 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $14,000 at graduation. The ROI score is 8.1.
What do Cornell University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Cornell University graduates is $87,830 six years after enrollment and $104,043 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Cornell University?
The acceptance rate at Cornell University is 8.8%.
How much debt do Cornell University graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Cornell University students is $14,000.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.