
Where is Cornell University Located?
Cornell University is nestled in the picturesque town of Ithaca, New York, offering a stunning natural backdrop for academic excellence. Located in the Finger Lakes region, the campus is surrounded by lush forests, gorges, and the pristine Cayuga Lake.
Nearby attractions include:
- Ithaca’s Waterfalls: Explore the area’s renowned gorges and waterfalls, including the iconic Cascadilla Gorge and Buttermilk Falls State Park, perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
- Cornell Botanic Gardens: Located right on campus, the botanical gardens offer a serene escape with diverse plant collections and themed gardens.
- Downtown Ithaca: Just a short walk from campus, downtown Ithaca is a vibrant hub filled with charming shops, restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues.
- Taughannock Falls State Park: A short drive away, this park boasts one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, ideal for outdoor adventures and picnics.
- Wine Trails: Explore the Finger Lakes’ world-renowned wine region, with numerous vineyards and wineries for wine tasting and relaxation.
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology: A premier destination for bird enthusiasts, it offers interactive exhibits, guided bird walks, and birdwatching opportunities.
Is Cornell University an Ivy League School?
Cornell University is an Ivy League school. It is one of the eight prestigious Ivy League institutions known for their academic excellence, historical significance, and rigorous admissions standards. Cornell University is located in Ithaca, New York, and is highly regarded for its contributions to education and research across various fields of study.
The Ivy League schools are:
- Brown University
- Columbia University
- Cornell University
- Dartmouth College
- Harvard University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Princeton University
- Yale University
Admission Requirements for Cornell University
Admission Requirements for Cornell University:
Cornell University sets admission standards to ensure that prospective students are well-prepared for their academic journey. Here are the general admission guidelines:
- High School GPA: A high school GPA of 3.9 or higher is recommended.
- Grades: Consistently earn A- grades during your high school education.
- Standardized Testing:
- SAT Score: A recommended SAT score of 1510 or higher.
- ACT Score: A recommended ACT score of 34 or higher.
- Class Rank: Graduate among the top 10% of your high school class.
- Letters of Recommendation: Provide letters of recommendation from your teachers.
Please be aware that these requirements serve as general guidelines, and specific criteria may vary based on the type of admission you are seeking (e.g., first-year applicant, first-year international applicant, transfer applicant) and the particular program you intend to apply for. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to consult the official university website or contact the admissions office directly.

Application Process for Cornell University
Cornell University Application Process:
The application process for Cornell University varies depending on the type of admission and the program you are interested in. However, here are some general steps that typically apply to most applicants:
- Select the Right Application:
- Complete the Common Application and the Cornell Writing Supplement if you are a first-year or transfer applicant.
- Application Fee:
- Pay the $80 application fee or request a fee waiver if eligible.
- Academic Records:
- Submit your high school transcript along with standardized test scores (although test scores are optional).
- Letters of Recommendation:
- Provide letters of recommendation from your teachers and counselors.
- Program-Specific Requirements:
- If you are applying to specific programs like Architecture, Art, Landscape Architecture, Design & Environmental Analysis, or Fashion Design & Management, be sure to submit any required portfolio or design supplements.
- Financial Aid Application:
- If you are seeking need-based financial aid, submit the required financial aid application materials.
- Application Status:
- Keep an eye on your application status page for updates and any additional requirements or documents requested.
Please note that these steps provide a general overview, and specific requirements may vary depending on your admission category and the program you are applying to

Standardized Tests: What Tests Are Required for Cornell University
Cornell University Test-Optional Policy for Fall 2024 First-Year Applicants:
For Fall 2024 first-year applicants, Cornell University has extended its test-optional and score-free undergraduate admissions testing policies. Since April 2020, the university no longer requires first-year applicants to submit SAT or ACT exam scores.
- Notably, three of Cornell’s undergraduate colleges—Agriculture and Life Sciences; Architecture, Art, and Planning; and the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business—do not consider test scores as part of their admission process.
- However, it’s important to note that international students are still required to take English proficiency tests.
For the most current and accurate information, it is advisable to visit the official university website or contact the admissions office.

Scholarships and Financial Aid at Cornell University
Financial Aid at Cornell University:
Cornell University provides various forms of financial aid to its undergraduate students, primarily in the form of grants and scholarships. However, it’s important to understand that Cornell does not offer merit-based aid or athletic scholarships—all financial aid is awarded based on demonstrated financial need.
- There is no set minimum or maximum limit for gift aid that can be awarded to eligible students. Additionally, external scholarships can be used to replace loan or work components of the aid package without reducing the parent contribution.
- Cornell University is committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of its students by combining different financial aid components, including grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment opportunities.
- In the Class of 2021, 52% of students received some form of financial aid, and the average need-based scholarship/grant awarded was $40,686.
- International students can also apply for need-based financial aid through the Cornell University Scholarship for International Students 2024-2025, designed to provide financial support to eligible admitted international students who have demonstrated financial need.
For more detailed information about grants, scholarships, and other financial aid options available at Cornell University, please refer to the official university website or reach out to their financial aid office.

Top Undergraduate Programs at Cornell University
According to U.S. News, Cornell University offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs, with the following being some of the most popular majors for recent graduates:
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services: 15%
- Engineering: 15%
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences: 13%
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services: 13%
- Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and Related Fields: 10%
- Social Sciences: 9%
- Physical Sciences: 3%
- Architecture and Related Services: 3%
- Natural Resources and Conservation: 2%
- Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences: 2%