How to Get into Cornell: Admission Requirements and Tips

Cornell University currently holds the #11 spot in U.S. News & World Report’s national rankings. It’s also an Ivy League school, so it’s no surprise that getting in is a real challenge. For the Class of 2028, Cornell’s acceptance rate was just 8.4%, putting it among the most selective schools in the country. If you’re eyeing Cornell, you’re probably curious about how to get into Cornell and what it takes to stand out among thousands of highly qualified applicants.

That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll break down everything you need to know about how to get into Cornell—from GPA expectations and standardized test requirements to crafting a strong application and writing essays that make an impact. This guide will help you put your best foot forward as you aim for that coveted spot at Cornell.

• How Hard Is It to Get into Cornell?
• Cornell Admission Requirements
• Cornell University GPA Requirements
• Cornell SAT Requirements
• Cornell ACT Requirements
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Cornell
• Cornell Application Deadline
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into Cornell?

Let’s talk about how competitive getting into Cornell really is. For the Class of 2028, Cornell received 65,612 applications and admitted just 5,516 students. That gives it an acceptance rate of 8.4%.

If you look at Cornell’s acceptance rates over the past few years, you’ll notice a bit of fluctuation. Here’s a snapshot of what the trend looks like:

While there’s been a slight rise recently, the overall trend shows a steady tightening, which points to increasing competition. More and more students are applying each year, so if you’re trying to figure out how to get into Cornell, it’s crucial to have a solid and well-rounded application to stand out.

Moreover, here’s how Cornell stacks up against other Ivies for the Class of 2028:

Compared to its Ivy League peers, Cornell has the highest acceptance rate. Because of this, Cornell sometimes gets labeled as “the easiest Ivy” or even “the worst Ivy,” but that’s a pretty misleading take. 8.4% is still a pretty selective figure. Most colleges nationwide have much higher acceptance rates, so Cornell remains very much up there with the other top schools.

What makes Cornell’s process unique is its emphasis on fit within its individual colleges and programs. Each undergraduate school has its own criteria, so it’s about showing that you genuinely align with what that specific program offers. Knowing how to get into Cornell means being intentional and thoughtful in your application, making sure your interests and goals clearly connect with the college or major you’re applying to.

Cornell Admission Requirements

To apply to Cornell University, you’ll use the Common Application, which helps you keep track of all your application materials in one place. It’s straightforward and lets you easily update your info or check if anything’s missing.

Now, let’s take a look at the core elements of how to get into Cornell—specifically, what the university looks for in a successful application. Here’s what they consider:

• Transcript of records. This shows off your grades and GPA, and more importantly, the rigor of the courses you’ve taken. Cornell wants to see that you’ve pushed yourself with challenging classes like AP or honors courses.
• Letters of recommendation. You’ll need two letters from teachers (ideally in core subjects like English, math, or science) and one from your school counselor. These letters give insight into your character, how you contribute in class, and your readiness for college-level work.
• Application essays. Besides the Common App personal statement, Cornell requires two supplemental essays. One asks why you want to go to Cornell, and the other zeroes in on the specific college or program you’re applying to within the university. It’s your chance to show them you’ve done your homework and have clear reasons for choosing Cornell.
• Extracurriculars. Cornell loves seeing active students. Whether it’s clubs, sports, volunteering, or any other passion project, your activities should reflect dedication and leadership. They help paint a picture of who you are beyond academics.
• Standardized test scores (optional). While Cornell is test-optional for applicants in Fall 2025, it’s a good idea to submit scores if they’re strong, especially if the college you’re applying to within Cornell recommends them. Starting Fall 2026, test scores will be back on the required list.
• Supplementary materials (optional). Depending on your program, you might want to submit extra items like a portfolio, another recommendation letter, updates on achievements, or an explanation if you had any bumps in your academics.

Knowing how to get into Cornell means understanding that they take a holistic view of you as an applicant. They value academics but also look at your personal qualities, talents, and alignment with what Cornell offers.

Cornell places a lot of weight on course rigor—so, challenging classes are a big deal. They also care about the abilities you bring, whether you’re an artist, athlete, or someone with a knack for leadership. And don’t overlook character. Authenticity matters, so show them who you really are.

Being a first-generation college student or having alumni connections can be a plus, but these aren’t the deciding factors. Things like religious affiliation and demonstrated interest don’t matter to them, and they no longer do interviews, so no pressure there.

Understanding these requirements can help you craft a compelling application that hits all the right notes with Cornell’s admissions team.

Cornell University GPA Requirements

When it comes to getting into Cornell, your GPA is definitely a key factor, but the university doesn’t have a set minimum requirement. That said, with thousands of high-achieving students applying each year, having a strong GPA can definitely give you a boost.

Cornell University average GPA

Cornell’s average GPA hovers around 4.1, which says a lot about their high expectations. In fact, most admitted students—around 82%, according to Cornell’s latest Common Data Set—rank in the top 10% of their class, which isn’t surprising given how competitive admissions are.

If you’re aiming to increase your chances, targeting a GPA of 4.1 or higher is a solid goal. Cornell also values students who challenge themselves academically. So if your school offers Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, it’s a good idea to take them to show that you can handle Cornell’s demanding curriculum.

What to do if your GPA is below average

Cornell reviews applications holistically, which means they look at everything: the difficulty of your classes, your recommendation letters, your essays, and what you’ve been involved in outside of school. If you’re thinking about how to get into Cornell and your GPA isn’t in the top range, focus on other strengths. Show growth, embrace tough classes, and put effort into crafting thoughtful essays and getting solid recommendations.

Cornell SAT Requirements

While Cornell doesn’t set a minimum SAT score, submitting strong scores can make a difference, especially if you’re aiming to stand out. Although Cornell is test-optional, those scores can show admissions that you’re academically ready for the challenges of college. So, if you decide to submit them, you’ll want to aim for scores that fall within or above the average range for admitted students.

Cornell average SAT score

Cornell’s latest Common Data Set shows that admitted students have competitive SAT scores. For the composite SAT, here’s the breakdown:

For individual sections, the scores look like this:

To boost your chances, aim for a composite score of 1550 or higher, which would put you among the strongest applicants. If you’re figuring out how to get into Cornell, know that nearly 95% of admitted students scored between 1400 and 1600—so aiming high can definitely help.

However, if your scores are a bit lower, don’t worry—Cornell’s holistic review means your essays, GPA, recommendations, and activities matter just as much.

Does Cornell require SAT?

Cornell is currently test-optional, but this depends on which college within Cornell you’re applying to. For the 2025 admissions cycle, colleges like the College of Arts & Sciences, Engineering, Human Ecology, Brooks School of Public Policy, and School of Industrial and Labor Relations still recommend (but not require) submitting SAT scores if you’ve got strong results. In these cases, solid scores can add weight to your application.

However, other Cornell schools—like the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Architecture, Art, and Planning, and the SC Johnson College of Business—have adopted a completely score-free policy. For these, test scores won’t be considered at all, so you don’t need to worry about submitting them.

Starting in 2026, though, Cornell will fully reinstate the testing requirement based on a multi-year study by the Task Force on Standardized Testing. The study found that while test scores aren’t everything, they can provide valuable insight when paired with other parts of your application, like your GPA, course load, extracurriculars, and essays.

So, submitting your SAT scores isn’t mandatory right now, but if you’ve got scores that fall within or above the recommended range, it could give you an advantage. If you’re confident in your scores and applying to a school that considers them, go ahead and include them to make your application even stronger.

Cornell ACT Requirements

While Cornell doesn’t set an official minimum ACT score, looking at the average scores of admitted students can help you gauge what’s competitive. Even though the ACT is currently optional in Cornell’s admissions process, submitting a strong score can still give your application a boost.

Cornell average ACT

Based on Cornell’s most recent data, the ACT composite scores for admitted students are pretty high:

Roughly 96.5% of admitted students have ACT scores ranging between 30 and 36, so it’s clear that hitting the higher end in each section—English, Math, Reading, and Science—is a good move. Although Cornell doesn’t publish section-specific averages, these high composite numbers suggest that competitive applicants are consistent across the board.

To be a strong candidate, aim for a composite score of 35 or higher. While there’s no official cutoff, understanding how to get into Cornell means knowing that scoring at this level puts you in good company among top applicants.

Keep in mind that while Cornell’s current policy is test-optional, this can vary by college. Some programs still recommend submitting scores, while others won’t consider them at all. That said, starting with the Fall 2026 cycle, standardized test scores will be required again. So, if you’re applying and you have a strong ACT score, it’s a good idea to include it.

Does Cornell prefer the ACT or SAT?

Cornell doesn’t favor the ACT over the SAT, or vice versa—they view both tests equally. Still, the numbers show a trend: for the Class of 2027, only 14% of applicants submitted ACT scores, while 42% submitted SAT scores. This difference might suggest that students lean slightly more toward the SAT, but Cornell’s admissions team treats both tests the same.

If the ACT better showcases your strengths, go with it. Aiming for a composite score around the 75th percentile or higher will definitely help position you as a solid candidate in the eyes of Cornell’s admissions committee.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Cornell

If you’re wondering how to get into Cornell, you’ve got to focus on several key aspects of your application. From keeping your GPA in check to writing memorable essays, every component plays a role in showing the admissions committee why you belong.

1. Maintain a high GPA.

Cornell’s average admitted GPA hovers around 4.1, so you’ll want to aim for grades in that range.

It’s not just about hitting perfect marks, though. Taking on challenging coursework like AP, IB, or honors classes is just as crucial since Cornell heavily values course rigor in its admissions process. Class rank matters too—more than 80% of Cornell’s admitted students are in the top 10% of their graduating class. So, consistent high performance across subjects is key.

How do you get there? Start by organizing your academic priorities. Focus on nailing core classes and those advanced courses. A planner or digital app can help you keep track of assignments, tests, and deadlines.

And if you feel like you’re slipping behind, don’t wait—join study groups, talk to your teachers, or find a tutor. Also, figure out which study methods click for you, whether it’s active recall, spaced repetition, or something else.

But don’t forget to take care of yourself! Burnout is real, and it can tank your performance faster than a pop quiz you weren’t ready for.

2. Excel in extracurricular activities.

Cornell wants leaders, community-minded folks, and those driven by research or creativity. If you’re exploring how to get into Cornell, think about why you’re drawn to the school. Is it the emphasis on making a difference, leading initiatives, or pursuing innovative research? Align your extracurriculars with these values to show how you fit into the Cornell culture:

• If you lean toward leadership, consider running for a position in student government or getting involved in organizations like the National Honor Society.
• Are you more about serving your community? Programs like Habitat for Humanity or even starting your own project can demonstrate that drive.
• Interested in research? Look into opportunities like the Research Science Institute or Cornell’s own summer programs, which lets high school students get a taste of college-level research.
• And if you’re an artsy type, taking part in theater productions or regional art competitions can make you stand out.

The main thing to remember about extracurriculars is that depth matters more than quantity. Colleges like Cornell aren’t impressed by a long list of activities where you were just another member. They want to see commitment and tangible achievements in areas you’re passionate about. So, instead of padding your resume, focus on pursuing things that genuinely matter to you and could leave a positive mark in your community or field.

3. Write compelling essays.

Cornell asks for one Common App essay—often called your personal statement—along with two supplemental essays. One of these supplements is about Cornell as a whole, while the other zooms in on the specific college or school you’re aiming to join.

Instead of simply stating facts in your essays, try to focus on storytelling. For example, if you’re writing about overcoming a challenge, go beyond the details and show what it felt like and what you learned.

Imagine you volunteered at a local shelter. Instead of saying, “I volunteered every weekend,” you could write: “Saturday mornings, I handed out warm meals and listened to people who had lost everything. Their resilience taught me the value of human connection and made me realize the impact I could have on others.” This way, you’re painting a picture that admissions officers can connect with, making your story more memorable.

Cornell essay prompts

In addition to the Common App essay, all applicants have to tackle the Cornell University essay prompt as well as a school-specific one. Here is the first prompt:

• We all contribute to, and are influenced by, the communities that are meaningful to us. Share how you’ve been shaped by one of the communities you belong to. Remember that this essay is about you and your lived experience. Define community in the way that is most meaningful to you. Some examples of community you might choose from are: family, school, shared interest, virtual, local, global, cultural. (350-word limit)

To answer this, pick a community that’s played a significant role in shaping who you are. It could be your family, a club, an online group, or even your neighborhood. The key is to explain how this community influenced your values or ambitions.

Next, you’ll have a prompt specific to the college or school you’re applying to. (If you need all the prompts and detailed tips for each school, you can check out our full guide on Cornell’s supplemental essays.) For instance, applicants to the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP) get this prompt:

• How do your interests directly connect with your intended major at the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP)? Why architecture (B.Arch), art (BFA), or urban and regional studies (URS)? B. Arch applicants, please provide an example of how a creative project or passion sparks your motivation to pursue a 5-year professional degree program. BFA applicants may want to consider how they could integrate a range of interests and available resources at Cornell into a coherent art practice. URS students may want to emphasize their enthusiasm and depth of interest in the study of urban and regional issues. (650-word limit)

No matter which program you’re applying to, your essay should show how your interests align with Cornell. If you’re thinking about how to get into Cornell, be specific: mention the classes, facilities, or opportunities that catch your eye. The goal is to connect your aspirations with what Cornell can offer and demonstrate that you’re genuinely excited about being there.

4. Take the SAT/ACT and nail it.

Cornell’s test-optional policy might make it seem like you can skip the SAT or ACT, but strong scores can still give your application an extra boost. If you choose to submit, aim for a composite SAT score of around 1550 or an ACT score of 35—both of which align with the 75th percentile range for admitted students.

Hitting these numbers takes smart prep and a solid strategy. Start by crafting a study plan that gives you enough time to focus on each section of the test. Make use of reliable prep materials and free online tools, like Khan Academy’s practice tests for the SAT or ACT.org’s resources for the ACT.

Consistent practice with timed tests helps you get familiar with the format and improve your pacing. It’s also crucial to zero in on your weak areas, whether that’s math calculations or tricky reading passages. And on test day, make sure you’re well-rested and have eaten a good breakfast—feeling sharp mentally starts with being physically prepared.

5. Get strong letters of recommendation.

Cornell requires three letters of recommendation: two from teachers and one from your school counselor. Ideally, your teacher recommendations should come from those who’ve taught you core subjects like English, Math, or Science.

To get the best recommendations, start early by building strong relationships with your teachers and counselor. Show genuine interest in class discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and seek feedback on your work. Take advantage of office hours or schedule meetings to talk about your progress or academic interests. Building these connections over time helps your teachers get to know you beyond just grades.

When it’s time to ask for a recommendation, approach your teachers or counselor in person if you can, and give them plenty of notice—a month or two before the deadline is ideal. Be clear about why you’re asking them, and provide a summary of your achievements or memorable moments in class to help them write a more detailed letter.

A polite follow-up email or thank-you note afterward leaves a lasting positive impression too.

6. Apply through Early Decision.

If you’re wondering how to get into Cornell, applying through Early Decision (ED) can give you a serious edge. Typically, the ED acceptance rate is higher than the Regular Decision (RD) acceptance rate. For the Class of 2026, for example, the acceptance rate for ED was 17.6%, while RD was only 5.7%. That’s roughly three times higher.

However, it’s not a decision to take lightly. ED is a binding agreement, so you’ll have to commit to enrolling and withdraw all your other applications when accepted. Be 100% sure Cornell is the school for you. And with the earlier deadline, your application needs to be ready to shine sooner than it would in RD. This means your grades, recommendations, and essays have to be solid from the start.

Take a hard look at your application and ask yourself if you’re prepared to present the best version of yourself by the early deadline. If the answer is yes, ED might be your ticket to Cornell.

Cornell Application Deadline

When you’re wondering how to get into Cornell, keeping track of key dates is essential. Here’s a quick rundown of the application timeline:

The ED path works best if you’re confident Cornell is your top choice and you’ve got all your materials ready to go. If you’re accepted, you’ll have to confirm by January 16. If you’re deferred, though, it’s not the end of the road—your application moves into the RD pool for another look.

The RD path, on the other hand, isn’t binding, giving you more flexibility to compare offers and financial aid packages from other schools before you decide. If you’re accepted, you have until May 1 to make your final decision.

Being waitlisted in the RD round isn’t a flat-out no. If this happens, you can still express your interest by sending a letter of intent or any additional updates that might strengthen your case. Just be sure to have a backup plan ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the acceptance rate for Cornell?

For the Class of 2028, Cornell’s acceptance rate was 8.4%. So, getting in is definitely no small feat, as the competition is tough and only a select group makes it through.

2. Is Cornell test-optional?

Yes, Cornell currently has a test-optional policy, but it varies by college. For those applying for Fall 2025 enrollment, some colleges at Cornell suggest submitting SAT or ACT scores, while others are strictly score-free. However, keep in mind that by Fall 2026, Cornell will be bringing back its standardized testing requirements across the board.

3. What GPA do you need to get into Cornell?

Cornell doesn’t lay down a minimum GPA requirement, but the average for admitted students usually sits around a solid 4.1. To stay competitive, most applicants have high GPAs and take on tough courses like AP, IB, or honors classes to show they can handle Cornell’s academic challenges.

4. What major is Cornell known for?

Cornell has a pretty diverse range of standout programs. It’s particularly well-known for its engineering, architecture, business, and agriculture programs. The School of Hotel Administration is a big deal too, as well as the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, which is famous for its research and life sciences/environmental studies programs.

5. How much is Cornell tuition?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, Cornell’s tuition is set at $68,380. But when you add in housing, meals, and other fees, the total annual cost can go up to $92,150. Fortunately, Cornell offers financial aid to those who qualify, which can help bring those costs down quite a bit.

Takeaways

When figuring out how to get into Cornell, there are five main things you’ll want to keep in mind:

• Cornell’s acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 is 8.4%. While that’s technically the highest among the Ivy League, it’s still no walk in the park, so being strategic is essential.
• Aim for a GPA of around 4.1 or higher. To really stand out, make sure you’re taking challenging classes like AP or IB to show that you’re ready for Cornell’s academic rigor.
• If you’re submitting test scores, you should be aiming for a composite SAT score of at least 1550 or an ACT composite score of 35.
• Academics aren’t the whole picture. You need to shine in your extracurricular activities, write essays that genuinely reflect who you are, and build strong relationships with teachers so you can get standout recommendation letters.
• If you’re feeling unsure about the process or just want some expert advice to refine your approach, it could be worth considering a college admissions consultant to help guide you along the way.