Amherst College vs Cornell University

Amherst, MA — Ithaca, NY

Metric
Amherst College
Amherst, MA
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Location Amherst, MA Ithaca, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 1,911 15,995
Acceptance Rate 9.0% 8.8%
SAT Average 1,533 1,535
In-State Tuition $70,480 $69,314
Out-of-State Tuition $70,480 $69,314
Avg Net Price $23,367 $28,690
Median Debt at Graduation $13,740 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 93.7% 95.3%
Retention Rate 97.3% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $62,537 $87,830
Median Earnings (10 yr) $77,644 $104,043
Loan Repayment Rate 23000.0% 313700.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Amherst College
Amherst, MA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Amherst College and Cornell University compare?
Amherst College (Amherst, MA) has an acceptance rate of 9.0%, in-state tuition of $70,480, and median 10-year earnings of $77,644. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) has an acceptance rate of 8.8%, in-state tuition of $69,314, and median 10-year earnings of $104,043.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Amherst College or Cornell University?
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $77,644. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Amherst College or Cornell University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Amherst College is the more affordable option at $23,367 per year versus $28,690.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Cornell University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.3% vs 93.7%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025