California State University-Northridge vs Cornell University

Northridge, CA — Ithaca, NY

Metric
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Location Northridge, CA Ithaca, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 32,691 15,995
Acceptance Rate 93.5% 8.8%
SAT Average 1,535
In-State Tuition $7,458 $69,314
Out-of-State Tuition $20,058 $69,314
Avg Net Price $7,021 $28,690
Median Debt at Graduation $13,872 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 56.5% 95.3%
Retention Rate 73.4% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $44,372 $87,830
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,115 $104,043
Loan Repayment Rate 999500.0% 313700.0%

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

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California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do California State University-Northridge and Cornell University compare?
California State University-Northridge (Northridge, CA) has an acceptance rate of 93.5%, in-state tuition of $7,458, and median 10-year earnings of $59,115. 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, California State University-Northridge or Cornell University?
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $59,115. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, California State University-Northridge or Cornell University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Northridge is the more affordable option at $7,021 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 56.5%.

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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