Cornell University vs University of California-Berkeley

Ithaca, NY — Berkeley, CA

Metric
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
Location Ithaca, NY Berkeley, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 15,995 33,068
Acceptance Rate 8.8% 11.0%
SAT Average 1,535
In-State Tuition $69,314 $16,347
Out-of-State Tuition $69,314 $50,547
Avg Net Price $28,690 $13,481
Median Debt at Graduation $14,000 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.3% 92.9%
Retention Rate 98.4% 96.8%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $87,830 $74,919
Median Earnings (10 yr) $104,043 $92,446
Loan Repayment Rate 313700.0% 641400.0%

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

Full Profile
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
View full college profile →
Full Profile
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Cornell University and University of California-Berkeley compare?
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. University of California-Berkeley (Berkeley, CA) has an acceptance rate of 11.0%, in-state tuition of $16,347, and median 10-year earnings of $92,446.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Cornell University or University of California-Berkeley?
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $92,446. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Cornell University or University of California-Berkeley?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Berkeley is the more affordable option at $13,481 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 92.9%.

More Comparisons

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