Virginia State University vs Cornell University

Petersburg, VA — Ithaca, NY

Metric
Virginia State University
Petersburg, VA
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Location Petersburg, VA Ithaca, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 5,074 15,995
Acceptance Rate 88.6% 8.8%
SAT Average 948 1,535
In-State Tuition $10,043 $69,314
Out-of-State Tuition $22,650 $69,314
Avg Net Price $15,840 $28,690
Median Debt at Graduation $26,500 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 40.1% 95.3%
Retention Rate 69.4% 98.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $33,630 $87,830
Median Earnings (10 yr) $45,543 $104,043
Loan Repayment Rate 366100.0% 313700.0%

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

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Virginia State University
Petersburg, VA
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Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Virginia State University and Cornell University compare?
Virginia State University (Petersburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 88.6%, in-state tuition of $10,043, and median 10-year earnings of $45,543. 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 State University or Cornell University?
Cornell University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $104,043 vs $45,543. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia State University or Cornell University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Virginia State University is the more affordable option at $15,840 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 40.1%.

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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