University of Wisconsin-Madison vs Cornell University
Madison, WI — Ithaca, NY
| Metric | University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI | Cornell University Ithaca, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Madison, WI | Ithaca, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 36,902 | 15,995 |
| Acceptance Rate | 45.2% | 8.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,427 | 1,535 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,603 | $69,314 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $42,103 | $69,314 |
| Avg Net Price | $17,354 | $28,690 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,484 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 89.4% | 95.3% |
| Retention Rate | 96.2% | 98.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,275 | $87,830 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $73,792 | $104,043 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 729100.0% | 313700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Full Profile
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
View full college profile →
Frequently Asked Questions
How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and Cornell University compare?▼
University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792. 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 Wisconsin-Madison or Cornell University?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison or Cornell University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 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 89.4%.
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