Cornell University Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Eligibility & Fees

Ithaca, New YorkLocation
UniversitySchool type
Estd1865established year
25582enrollment
Private (Not for Profit)
7.7/10

Important Alerts

EventsDates
Master of Business Administration [M.B.A] Round 1 Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake
Closing in 22 days
17th Sep 2025
Management Science Application Deadline For Round 1 2026 Intake
Closing in 23 days
18th Sep 2025
Finance Application Deadline For Round 1 2026 Intake
Closing in 23 days
18th Sep 2025

What's New in Cornell University Admission?

4 July 2025: Cornell University MBA applicants are now required to pay a non-refundable USD 250 (INR 21,345) application fee. Additionally, Duolingo English Test scores are now accepted for the MBA program, offering greater flexibility in English proficiency submissions. Check Details.

3 June 2025: Cornell University has extended the application deadline for its Master of Professional Studies in Management program to June 15, 2025, for all interested applicants. 

28 May 2025: Cornell University has increased its tuition fee for international undergraduate students to 71,266 USD per year from 65,204 USD. Tuition fees for professional degrees and annual living expenses (26,986 USD for UG and 31,913 for PG) are also increased. Click here to know more. 

13 May 2025: The 2-year MBA tuition fees at Cornell University for the 2025 Fall/Spring intake have risen from $83,106 to $86,596 (₹70,55,699 to ₹73,52,000). For more details, click here.

Cornell University offers admission to international students in Fall and Spring intakes. Ranked among the top 20 universities in the world across different ranking bodies, the University is home to students from 131 Countries. Student rates the University as 8.1/10, with a higher ranking for Infrastructure at 9.5/10 and Academics at 9.4/10. Additionally, the university is quite competitive with a very low acceptance rate of just 8%. Some of the most reputed fields of study at the university are MBA, Engineering, Architecture, and Computer Science.

To get admission to the undergraduate programs in Cornell University, applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.7 (80-82%) out of 4.0, along with official transcripts, 2 LORs, a school report, and a writing supplement. Graduate applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a 2.7 (80-82%), TOEFL iBT score of 77 or equivalent, and standardized test scores like 660-760 in GMAT, or 322-334 in GRE where applicable. The University is also an ideal place for students who wish to pursue an MBA from a good University. Cornell University's MBA ranking is #6 in the world according to Financial Times, 2025.

Also Check: Cornell University Acceptance Rate


Top Courses at Cornell University

Listed below are some popular courses at Cornell University with their respective durations and tuition fees for international students:

Course Name Duration (Years) Tuition Fees (USD) Tuition Fees (INR)
Master of Business Administration (MBA) 1 Year $129,918 ₹1,13,02,866
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) 5 Years $68,380 ₹3,840,000
Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) Engineering Management 1 Year $68,380 ₹5,949,060
Master of Science (M.S) Computer Science 2 Years $29,500 ₹2,566,500
Master of Architecture (M.Arch) 3 Years $68,380 ₹5,949,060
M.Eng Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering 1 Year $68,380 ₹5949060
M.S Computer Science 2 Years $29,500 ₹2,566,500
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) Economics 3 Years $20,800 ₹1,809,600
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) Psychology 3 Years $20,800 ₹4,000,000
Master of Health Administration (M.H.A) / MBA 2 Years $68,380 ₹5,949,060
Master of Science (M.S) Mechanical Engineering 1 Year $68,380 ₹5,949,060
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) Computer Science 4 Years $20,800 ₹1,809,600

Cornell University Admission Deadline

The application deadline for first-year Early Decision is November 1, with admission decisions released in mid-December. For first-year Regular Decision, the application deadline is January 2, and applicants receive their admission results in early April.

The graduate application deadlines are program-specific. Deadlines of some popular graduate programs at Cornell University are as follows:

UG & MBA Admission Deadline

Application Type Deadline
Early Nov 1, 2025
Regular Jan 2, 2026 (tentative)
MBA Round 3 Apr 10, 2025

PG Admission Deadline

Program Admission Deadline for Fall Intake
M.B.A Mar 5, 2025
M.Eng Electrical and Computer Engineering Jan 15, 2026
M.Eng Materials Science and Engineering May 30, 2025
M.Eng Biomedical Engineering Dec 15, 2025
M.Eng Chemical Engineering Dec 15, 2025
M.Eng Systems Engineering Dec 15, 2025
M.Arch Jan 3, 2026
M.A Design Dec 15, 2025
M.A Human Resource Management (Executive) Feb 15, 2025
M.Eng Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Feb 1, 2025
M.Eng Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Oct 1, 2025 (Spring Intake)
M.L.A Dec 15, 2025
L.L.M Dec 15, 2025

Cornell University Graduate Admissions

Cornell University has the widest range of courses among the Ivy League universities, with nearly 100 fields of study with 18 non-degree granting minor fields. Details of the admission requirements for graduate programs in Cornell University for prospective Indian students are as follows:

Application Portal: Apply web

Application Fee: USD 105 (~INR 9,155)

Admission Requirements:

  • Academic transcripts of a bachelor’s degree
  • Minimum GPA of 2.7 (80-82%) or above out of 4.0
  • English proficiency scores:
    • TOEFL iBT:
      • Speaking: 22 or above
      • Reading: 20 or above
      • Listening: 15 or above
      • Writing: 20 or above
    • IELTS: 7.0 overall
  • Standardized test scores:
    • GMAT: 710 (Median score for MBA)
    • GRE:
      • 165+ in Quantitative
      • 155+ in Verbal, and
      • 3.5+ in Analytical
  • 3 LORs: Academic and professional LORs
  • Statement of Purpose
  • International degree equivalency.

Note: Due to the competitive admission process, a minimum GPA of 3.5 (89-90%) on a 4.0 scale or above can be competitive.

Cornell University Undergraduate Admissions

Cornell University offers 81 undergraduate majors across 8 undergraduate colleges and schools. Indian students are encouraged to apply through early decision to increase their chance of selection. The undergraduate admission requirements at Cornell University might slightly vary based on the program and school. Details of admission to the university are provided below:

Application Portal: Cornell Undergraduate Application

Application Fee: USD 80 (~INR 6,970)

Admission Requirements:

  • Official high-school transcripts
  • GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 (90%) in high school
  • Standardized test score:
    • SAT score: 1480-1550 (Average)
    • ACT score: 33-35
  • English language proficiency requirements:
    • TOEFL iBT: 100
    • IELTS: 7.5
    • PTE: 70
  • 2 LORs from faculty
  • Video interview (Course-specific)
  • Questionnaire and writing supplement
  • Portfolio, design indexes, etc. (required for arts, design, and architecture courses).

Cornell University Admission Decision

Cornell University admission decisions depend on the application types. Early Decision applicants receive admission decision by mid-December. For Early Decision, you need to reply by the deadline of January 16. Regular Decision applicants are notified by late-March, and the enrollment confirmation deadline is on May 1.

All admission decisions at Cornell University are final. There are 3 possible outcomes for Regular Decision applicants:

  • Admit: Accepted students must submit their enrollment deposit by May 2 to secure a spot at Cornell University.
  • Waitlist: You will have to wait for potential admission based on a vacant space availability.
  • Deny: Rejected applicants can reapply as transfer candidates in future admissions cycles.

Note: You should check the application portal regularly for updates and ensure your meet response deadlines to secure your place at Cornell University.

Also Check: Cornell University Reviews

Cornell University offers a highly competitive admission process with only 8% acceptance rate. The university considers all applications holistically with college-specific admission requirements. To stand out among the many applicants, it's a good idea to keep a strong GPA and showcase achievements in extracurricular activities, especially those that highlight leadership and other significant roles.

FAQs

Ques. What makes Cornell University unique, and what is the cost of tuition?

Ans. Cornell University is a highly selective Ivy League institution with a small, diverse intake of around 40-60 students at its NYC campus. The tech-focused programs like Tech-MBA, CS, Information Systems, and Operations Research have been moved from the Ithaca campus. A major benefit is the ability to take courses across different domains, allowing students to explore both CS and MBA courses in the same semester. Tuition fees at Cornell University range from $20,800 to $129,918 (₹1,13,02,866 to ₹4,000,000) per year. However, there are several scholarships available to help with the costs.

Ques. How hard is it actually to get into Ivy League Cornell University?

Ans. Getting into Cornell University is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of just 8%. While it's tough, it’s not impossible if you have a unique story, strong resilience, and clear achievements. The admissions process values honesty and genuine passion, so being upfront about your challenges and how you’ve overcome them can make a strong impression. Ultimately, showing that you’re driven, whether through academic recovery or personal accomplishments, can improve your chances.

Ques: What makes Cornell University stand out from other top universities?

Ans: Cornell stands out with over 80 undergraduate majors, 100+ graduate fields, and 7 undergraduate colleges, making it the most academically diverse Ivy. It enrolls around 16,000 undergraduates, offering access to 20 libraries, 1,000+ student clubs, and specialized programs like the Interdisciplinary Studies major. Its financial aid program supports over 50% of students with need-based aid, and the campus, set in Ithaca, New York, consistently ranks among the top 10 most beautiful college campuses in the U.S. This blend of academic depth, support, and environment makes Cornell truly unique.

Cornell University Program Fees & Deadlines

ProgramImportant DatesFeesApplication FeesEligibilityFinancial Aid
Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
USD 29,500 /Yr-Average grade: 60%, IELTS-7.0, TOEFL-100
Early Decision Document Submission Deadline 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025)
Early Decision Application Deadline 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025)
Regular Decision Document Submission Deadline 2026 Intake (2nd Jan 2026)
Regular Decision Application Deadline 2026 Intake (2nd Jan 2026)
USD 71,266 /Yr80Average grade: 60%, IELTS-7.5, TOEFL-100, Duolingo-130
Application Deadline For Fall 2025 Intake (1st Feb 2025)
USD 68,380 /Yr-Average grade: 60%, IELTS-7.0, TOEFL-100
M.B.A
2 years
Round 1 Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (17th Sep 2025)
Round 2 Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (8th Jan 2026)
Round 3 Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (7th Apr 2026)
USD 86,596 /Yr250TOEFL iBT: 100 | IELTS: 7.0 | Duolingo: 120
Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Dec 2025)
USD 68,380 /Yr-Average grade: 60%, IELTS-7.0, TOEFL-100
Application Deadline For Fall 2025 Intake (1st May 2025)
Application Deadline For Spring 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025)
USD 68,380 /Yr105IELTS-7.0, TOEFL-100
B.Arch
5 years
Early Decision Document Submission Deadline 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025)
Early Decision Application Deadline 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025)
Regular Decision Document Submission Deadline 2027 Intake (2nd Jan 2026)
Regular Decision Application Deadline 2027 Intake (2nd Jan 2026)
USD 68,380 /Yr85Average grade: 60%, IELTS-7.5, TOEFL-100, Duolingo-130
Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (1st Dec 2025)
USD 29,500 /Yr105IELTS-7.0, TOEFL-100
Application Deadline For Round 1 2026 Intake (18th Sep 2025)
Application Deadline For Round 2 2026 Intake (9th Jan 2026)
Application Deadline For Round 3 2026 Intake (10th Apr 2026)
USD 83,106 /Yr105IELTS-7.0, TOEFL-100
M.P.A
2 years
Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026)
USD 53,722 /Yr105IELTS-7.0, TOEFL-100

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Reviews


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11 Reviews Found

KI
academic: 6/10
faculty: 6/10
infrastructure: 6/10
accomodation: 6/10
placement: 4/10
extracurricular: 6/10

SJ
7.7 /10

Scholarship

  • I didn't receive any scholarship but my friends received a scholarship (TATA Scholarship), which is about 95% scholarship based mostly on merit but I'm not too sure of the details. Not a lot of people in the university receive scholarships, especially international students. I am not aware of the exact number of students, though, as that isn't revealed to us.

academic: 8/10
faculty: 8/10
infrastructure: 8/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 6/10
extracurricular: 8/10

SD
8.3 /10
academic: 10/10
faculty: 10/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 10/10
placement: 10/10

Overview

Program ranked in top 10 in the US. Ivy league school. Shorter duration of masters program. Best Engineering school in the Ivy league.

Scholarship

No

academic: 9/10
faculty: 9/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 10/10
placement: 10/10

Overview

More credits/focus assigned to research. At least a third of the total credits for graduation were assigned for research which was my primary area of interest.

Scholarship

J.N. TATA Scholarship

academic: 10/10
faculty: 10/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 9/10

Overview

1. Small cohort 2. Brand name 3. One of the best program I wanted to pursue.

Scholarship

No

academic: 9/10
faculty: 9/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 8/10

Overview

Prestige and ranking(overall and department). It is an Ivy school and ranked in the top 10 in the US for my program.

Scholarship

No, I didn't receive any scholarship.

academic: 10/10
faculty: 10/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 10/10
placement: 10/10

MS
7.7 /10

Overview

I ended up choosing Cornell mainly due to two Professors here (Jie Shan and Peter McMahon). Their research interests aligned really well with mine. Another, although minor, factor that affected my decision was the availability of many hiking trails in Ithaca. I really enjoy trekking and hiking, so that was a major plus.

Scholarship

I applied for a few after joining my Ph.D program, although their results haven't been released yet.

academic: 10/10
faculty: 9/10
infrastructure: 10/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 9/10

S
8.2 /10

Overview

A great network to be able to be successful in the future, allows me to extensively train for the career I want. Has a good social climate to be able to enjoy myself when I need a break from the tough work.

academic: 10/10
faculty: 10/10
infrastructure: 8/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 5/10
extracurricular: 8/10

David
8.5 /10

Overview

It's the leading program in this field and I couldn't find it anywhere else. Very detailed and good instruction at Cornell's ILR School in Ithaca, NY about 4 hours from New York City. There are plenty of resources.

Scholarship

I have some financial aid to make education more affordable. This would be difficult without financial aid. They are good about aid but the process includes filling out lots of paperwork.

academic: 9/10
faculty: 10/10
infrastructure: 9/10
accomodation: 8/10
placement: 6/10
extracurricular: 9/10

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