University of California-Berkeley vs Cornell University

Berkeley, CA — Ithaca, NY

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

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

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University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Berkeley and Cornell University compare?
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. 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, University of California-Berkeley or Cornell University?
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, University of California-Berkeley or Cornell University?
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%.

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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