Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona vs Cornell University
Altoona, PA — Ithaca, NY
| Metric | Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona Altoona, PA | Cornell University Ithaca, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Altoona, PA | Ithaca, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 2,367 | 15,995 |
| Acceptance Rate | 98.1% | 8.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,187 | 1,535 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,972 | $69,314 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $26,958 | $69,314 |
| Avg Net Price | $22,213 | $28,690 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 17.2% | 95.3% |
| Retention Rate | 79.5% | 98.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,620 | $87,830 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,435 | $104,043 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 3192600.0% | 313700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona
Altoona, PA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona and Cornell University compare?▼
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona (Altoona, PA) has an acceptance rate of 98.1%, in-state tuition of $15,972, and median 10-year earnings of $63,435. 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, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona or Cornell University?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona or Cornell University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona is the more affordable option at $22,213 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 17.2%.
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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