Southern Virginia University vs Cornell University

Buena Vista, VA — Ithaca, NY

Metric
Southern Virginia University
Buena Vista, VA
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Location Buena Vista, VA Ithaca, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 936 15,995
Acceptance Rate 96.4% 8.8%
SAT Average 1,535
In-State Tuition $21,280 $69,314
Out-of-State Tuition $21,280 $69,314
Avg Net Price $22,213 $28,690
Median Debt at Graduation $24,224 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 36.0% 95.3%
Retention Rate 74.0% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $36,988 $87,830
Median Earnings (10 yr) $50,002 $104,043
Loan Repayment Rate 47300.0% 313700.0%

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

Full Profile
Southern Virginia University
Buena Vista, VA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Southern Virginia University and Cornell University compare?
Southern Virginia University (Buena Vista, VA) has an acceptance rate of 96.4%, in-state tuition of $21,280, and median 10-year earnings of $50,002. 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, Southern Virginia University or Cornell University?
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $50,002. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Southern Virginia University or Cornell University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Southern Virginia University 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 36.0%.

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