Cornell University: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

The campus of Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, is simply breathtaking. The campus, which the gorgeous Finger Lakes surround, offers breathtaking natural beauty with its gorges, waterfalls, and rich vegetation. The university's architectural diversity includes old red-brick structures and brand-new, cutting-edge facilities, creating an eye-catching atmosphere for students and visitors.

Many different dorms and residence halls on campus can accommodate a range of preferences and needs. These residences support a sense of community among students by offering a comfortable living environment and being well-maintained. Cornell's dedication to housing allows students to live and learn in a welcoming and stimulating environment while attending this esteemed university.

Cornell University's student population is over 26,000, averaging 23,791 over the past 11 years. Undergraduates make up 61.1%, while graduates represent 38.9%. In the last decade, undergraduate enrollment grew by 1,769, and graduate enrollment increased by 2,816.

Being a very selective university, understanding Cornell’s admission in advance can help you prepare early and take the necessary admission tests (e.g., the SAT or ACT), as well as meet the required GPA standards, to increase your chances of admission.

Below is a breakdown of the admission requirements and upcoming deadlines for Cornell University:

Academic Qualifications

Cornell University seeks students with academic excellence and a strong foundation in relevant subjects. While specific requirements may vary by college or program, the general expectations for international applicants are as follows:

Language Proficiency

International applicants, including those from India, must demonstrate English language proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE tests. Students who have completed previous education in English may be eligible for a waiver.

Here are the English language requirements:

Note: Competitive scores may vary depending on the number of applications received.

Competitive Exams 

Cornell has updated its policy to test-recommended and score-free for students applying to enroll for fall 2025. While for graduate applicants, some programs may require GRE/GMAT scores.

Here are the test requirements for Cornell admissions:

Note: Requirements vary with programs. Competitive scores also may vary depending on the number of applications received.

Visa Requirements

International students admitted to Cornell University must obtain an F-1 visa to study in the United States. The F-1 visa is non-immigrant; students must maintain full-time student status while studying.

Cornell issues an I-20 form upon acceptance, which is required to apply for an F-1 student visa. Here is a quick documents checklist for the visa application process:

Now, let's understand the available intakes and deadlines at Cornell University!

Cornell University consistently ranks among the top global universities, showcasing its academic excellence and international recognition. As of the latest, Cornell is ranked 16th in the QS Rankings and has held its position as the 20th best university in THE Rankings.

These excellent rankings solidify its position as a leader in higher education, making it a top choice for students, especially those seeking a world-class education with a global perspective.

To know more, have a look at Cornell University's rankings over the past five years:

This trend provides a rich, data-driven snapshot of Cornell's consistent top-tier rankings across global platforms.

Subject-specific rankings provide valuable insights into the performance of your chosen program. Let's explore the details to see how your field of study ranks.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

Cornell's Veterinary Science program is ranked 3rd globally in the QS ranking, reflecting its strong research output and academic reputation. Similarly, the Computer Science program holds the 16th position, & Social Sciences at 19th, highlighting the university's strength in interdisciplinary studies and research.

Subject-wise rankings assess academic quality and program reputation, helping students make informed decisions about colleges and programs. 

Below are some of the popular subject rankings of Cornell University:

These rankings highlight Cornell University's consistent excellence across a range of disciplines.

Want to know if Cornell University is the right fit for your science subjects? Take a look at Cornell University's Rankings 2025 to see how it compares globally and within your field!

After reviewing the rankings, let's understand the admission requirements for students.