Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs Cornell University
Blacksburg, VA — Ithaca, NY
| Metric | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA | Cornell University Ithaca, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Blacksburg, VA | Ithaca, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 30,923 | 15,995 |
| Acceptance Rate | 54.8% | 8.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,364 | 1,535 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,948 | $69,314 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $37,764 | $69,314 |
| Avg Net Price | $24,953 | $28,690 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 86.3% | 95.3% |
| Retention Rate | 93.1% | 98.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $67,377 | $87,830 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $81,698 | $104,043 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 661700.0% | 313700.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Cornell University compare?▼
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 54.8%, in-state tuition of $15,948, and median 10-year earnings of $81,698. 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, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Cornell University?▼
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $81,698. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Cornell University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University is the more affordable option at $24,953 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 86.3%.
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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