Boston University vs Cornell University
Boston, MA — Ithaca, NY
| Metric | Boston University Boston, MA | Cornell University Ithaca, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Boston, MA | Ithaca, NY |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 18,248 | 15,995 |
| Acceptance Rate | 11.1% | 8.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,480 | 1,535 |
| In-State Tuition | $68,102 | $69,314 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,102 | $69,314 |
| Avg Net Price | $24,402 | $28,690 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 89.3% | 95.3% |
| Retention Rate | 94.7% | 98.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $65,655 | $87,830 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $83,238 | $104,043 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 471400.0% | 313700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Boston University
Boston, MA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Boston University and Cornell University compare?▼
Boston University (Boston, MA) has an acceptance rate of 11.1%, in-state tuition of $68,102, and median 10-year earnings of $83,238. 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, Boston University or Cornell University?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $83,238. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Boston University or Cornell University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Boston University is the more affordable option at $24,402 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 89.3%.
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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