Columbia University vs Cornell University
Columbia University is the more selective of the two at 4%, versus 9% at Cornell University. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.
Columbia University vs Cornell University: the differences that matter
How Columbia University and Cornell University stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.
Columbia University is meaningfully harder to get into, admitting about 4% of applicants versus 9% at Cornell University, a gap of roughly 5 percentage points. Treat Columbia University as the bigger reach of the two when you build your list.
The two also read applications a little differently. Columbia University leans more on application essay, recommendations, interview, while Cornell University puts more weight on a similar mix of factors. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.
On test scores, Columbia University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1560 and Cornell University's is around 1550. Admitted students at Columbia University post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.
What each school weighs
Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbia University or Cornell University harder to get into?
Columbia University is harder to get into, with a 4% acceptance rate versus 9% at Cornell University.
What's the difference in SAT scores between Columbia University and Cornell University?
Columbia University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1560, and Cornell University's is around 1550.
What are my chances at Columbia University and Cornell University?
That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.