A 158-year-old university, rivaling the prestige of Harvard and Princeton, excels as one of the top Ivy League colleges. Its sought-after majors encompass Computer Sciences, Engineering, Biological Sciences, Business, and more. It maintains a remarkable 97% freshman retention rate, indicative of high student satisfaction, according to usnews.com.
With a rich blend of tradition and innovation, this venerable institution continues to shape future leaders and remains a symbol of academic excellence in higher education.
Source: Crimson Education
Cornell has a higher acceptance rate than Harvard and Princeton. It was 6.9% for the 2026 class. So, prepare yourself for an exciting Cornell journey! All the essential information you require has been thoughtfully compiled on this page.
Early Decision
Let’s start with the decision part. If you are one of those types who knows what you want, then you can be an early bird and enjoy the benefits of their Early Decision policies.
Early Decision at Cornell is a binding commitment if you have chosen the university as your top choice.
You can apply to other colleges using non binding plans, but you must withdraw those applications if accepted to Cornell.
You need to understand the implications of the Early Decision and carefully weigh your options before making this binding commitment.
Regular Decision
If you do not want to commit, select the Regular Decision option, which is non-binding. If you are chosen, you are free to attend your preferred college.
Application
The applications are submitted online. You can visit their website and start the process.
What is required from your school?
Grades
You must submit grades from 9th through 11th grade and list in-progress 12th-grade courses. Early Decision applicants are encouraged to submit first marking period grades when available. Applicants will be required to submit mid-year grades from 12th grade when available.
Transcripts
You must ask your high school to send your official transcripts to college. There are three options for submitting the transcript:
- Via the Common App
- Via online ordering system
- eTranscript service
Counselor Recommendation
The letter of recommendation should underline your accomplishments during high school. Your school counselor, college counselor, principal, or headmaster can send the letter.
School Report
The counselor or designated school official is authorized to submit this Common Application form or your school’s report form on your behalf.
Two Teachers Evaluations
You must ask two teachers to write recommendations for you. They should discuss your academic strengths and how you contribute to the classroom.
Mid-year Report Transcript
The school counselor or designated school official should have to submit your mid-year grades from 12th grade, when available, through the Common Application.
These students may have yet to receive any new grade information to report at the time of submission, so that they can skip it.
Essays/Writing Supplement
Each college has essay prompts, and you must write your essay based on those prompts. It’s crucial to be clear and expressive, ensuring that every word adds value to your application. Remember, these should be the genuine, original experiences you share in your essay.
How to submit writing supplements?
The writing supplement is submitted separately from the Common Application. Here’s what you need to do:
- Log in to the Common Application.
- Click “Questions” under the “Writing Supplement” section to access the Cornell Writing Supplement.
- Review your submission and click “Continue” to complete the submission. You’ll receive a confirmation screen.
Remember, each college and school at Cornell has a unique supplement. Once you’ve submitted your application, you won’t be able to change the college or school you applied to. Be sure to make your choices carefully.
Standardized Testing
Cornell has suspended the SAT/ACT testing requirement for 2023 and 2024 applicants.
Extracurriculars
This is a must. Participation in sports, art, culture, clubs, internships, community services, etc., will showcase how you have nurtured your special interests and talents.
The admission officers will review your extracurriculars, jobs, and community activities to determine how you have developed your special interests and talents.
Just remember, Cornell’s admission process is personalized. Admission officers assess your suitability for their academics, culture, and philosophy.
What does Cornell look for in your application?
Intellectual potential
Make sure your application highlights the challenges you’ve undertaken, your passion for learning, and your preparedness to pursue your interests at Cornell.
Character
Your essays and the recommendations must highlight your most vital characteristics, which include honesty, flexibility, risk-taking and decision-making skills, teamwork, and empathy.
Involvement
Your application should reflect your other skills, such as leadership and problem-solving abilities. Activities like community involvement and workplace experience provide an excellent opportunity to showcase these skills.
Your Reasons for Choosing Cornell
Last but not least, they would like to understand how you intend to benefit from Cornell’s learning environment.
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