University of Colorado Boulder vs Cornell University

Boulder, CO — Ithaca, NY

Metric
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Location Boulder, CO Ithaca, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 31,939 15,995
Acceptance Rate 78.1% 8.8%
SAT Average 1,357 1,535
In-State Tuition $15,666 $69,314
Out-of-State Tuition $44,918 $69,314
Avg Net Price $25,346 $28,690
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 74.6% 95.3%
Retention Rate 90.1% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $54,939 $87,830
Median Earnings (10 yr) $69,738 $104,043
Loan Repayment Rate 691700.0% 313700.0%

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

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University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Colorado Boulder and Cornell University compare?
University of Colorado Boulder (Boulder, CO) has an acceptance rate of 78.1%, in-state tuition of $15,666, and median 10-year earnings of $69,738. 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 Colorado Boulder or Cornell University?
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $69,738. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Colorado Boulder or Cornell University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Colorado Boulder is the more affordable option at $25,346 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 74.6%.

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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