What Does It Really Cost to Attend Cornell University?

The largest member of the Ivy League, Cornell University has seven undergraduate colleges. This prestigious university is situated in Ithaca, New York, home to its famed picturesque gorges and waterfalls.

Private colleges like Cornell can be very expensive to attend. However, it’s important to remember that the list price, the number you’ll see first, is unlikely to be what you’ll actually end up paying. Instead, you should take into account federal, state, and local government aid; institutional financial aid; and merit scholarships, all of which will contribute to your net cost. The net cost is what you’ll actually pay out of pocket.

So, what can you expect to pay if your child attends Cornell? Here’s our breakdown of the costs.

Want to learn what Cornell University will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take? Here’s what every student considering Cornell University needs to know.

Cornell University’s List Price

Including tuition, room, and board, the list price for in- and out-of-state students who attend Cornell is $67,613.

Usually, families earning a combined salary upwards of $175,000 are expected to pay the list price, while those earning less generally receive some amount of financial aid.

Cost of Attendance with Financial Aid

The average net cost for students receiving financial aid is $57,068. These costs vary depending on your family’s household income:

*Net price may appear higher for low-earning families because students in this income bracket often receive Pell Grants.

Merit Aid

Like the other institutions within the Ivy League, Cornell does not award merit scholarships to any students. Therefore, the cost of attendance for students who don’t qualify for need-based aid is the same as the list price of $67,613.

Student Loans and Debts

Loans are a standard component of most financial aid packages, and unlike many other pieces, they must be paid back after students graduate. At Cornell, 80 percent of students have loans, with an average federal loan debt of $2,828.

Other Ways to Save on College

Beyond financial aid, many college students supplement their income through other resources. Ithaca is a city largely powered by Cornell, so there are plenty of opportunities for part-time jobs and internships on campus or with local alumni.

Furthermore, just because Cornell doesn’t award merit scholarships doesn’t mean your student can’t win them through other means. Many organizations and foundations offer scholarships to promising students who fall into certain demographics, intend to study or follow career paths in specific disciplines, and others. It’s a good idea to get a head start on researching potential scholarships when your child is a junior to make certain you have the materials you need and meet deadlines.

To learn more about need-based aid at Cornell, check out the university’s Grants and Scholarships page.

Student Outcomes

The outcomes are promising for Cornell students and alumni. Ninety-three percent of students graduate within six years, and graduates earn an average annual salary of $77,200 after 10 years.

Local Area Cost Considerations

The cost of living index in Ithaca, New York, is 104. That means that it is four percent more expensive than the national average.

Freshmen and sophomores who meet application deadlines and requirements are guaranteed housing, but the housing options are limited for sophomores. Upperclassmen are not guaranteed housing. In Ithaca, the average prices for apartment rentals are $1168 for a one bedroom and $1636 for a two bedroom. The Off-Campus Living office offers plenty of resources for and assistance with your apartment search.

Currently, the minimum wage in New York State is $11.10/hour and will rise to $15.00/hour at the end of 2019. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean hourly salary for all occupations was $27.90 in 2017. Keep in mind, however, that this average encompasses all professions, including those held by college graduates.

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