As one of the eight Ivy League schools, Cornell University has more than 150 years of tradition to offer students and their families. Founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell, the school serves students from all 50 states and 120 countries around the world and is located in Ithaca, New York.
People know that it’s not easy getting into an Ivy League school, but what they don’t know is that it takes more than just good grades. Contrary to popular belief, we found that there isn’t a concrete GPA cutoff that Cornell uses to select its students. Likewise, the school doesn’t publish the average GPA for admitted students.
We also know that there’s no magical formula of standardized test scores that guarantees you’ll be accepted into Cornell.
So, what do Cornell admission officers look for?
The Acceptance Rate at Cornell University
Cornell’s acceptance rate is fairly low; however, it’s the Ivy League school with the highest rate. Less than 10% of students who apply are admitted to Cornell.
With the Cornell University acceptance rate being so tight, it’s a good idea to gain some insight into what Cornell admissions staff looks for in an application. From SAT scores and GPA to essays and more, there are several things we can tell you about the application and what Cornell wants to see in yours.
Cornell Admissions
The admissions committees of Cornell receive tens of thousands of applications each year, and each application gets about 20 minutes of personal review by an officer. That means you only have 20 minutes to convince the university that you have what they’re looking for.
While it’s true that they review every academic transcript and test score, there’s much more that they evaluate when making their decisions about admissions.
What Is Cornell University Looking for?
The numbers (GPA, test scores, class grades) are a key component of any admissions decision, but the Ivy League school also looks for information beyond the numbers.
Cornell University admissions staff also look at a student’s:
- Strength of character
- Intellectual potential
- Love of learning
- Leadership ability
- Motivation
- Integrity
The admissions staff also wants to know about a student’s achievements, diligence, and sense of compassion and fairness. For these reasons, the essay part of your application is extremely important.
Too many students mistakenly think that no one reads the essays, but they couldn’t be more incorrect. We know for a fact that Cornell carefully reads every one.
The above qualities are not only reflected in applicant essays, but also through their recommendations, hobbies, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and after-school jobs, all of which Cornell considers when making an admissions decision.
Cornell’s Belief in Equal Opportunity
The admissions staff at Cornell University carefully selects each class by choosing students from all over the country and world. They select students from every economic, racial, social, and national background.
Students are graduates of private high schools, public high schools, college prep schools, parochial schools, alternative schools, and home schools.
How to Get into Cornell University
Cornell is seeking students with a high sense of purpose. Your application should show passion through your achievements and successes. The university is looking for students with a strong sense of the course of study they will pursue.
The admissions staff will look to see if you took advantage of the opportunities you were presented with during high school. For example, if AP courses were offered, did you take them?
You will need to complete the Common App Essay and supplemental essays, submit your ACT/SAT scores, include letters of recommendation from teachers and one counselor, and send official transcripts with your application.
Empowerly can help you improve your application and your chances of being admitted to Cornell University. Let us guide your journey to Cornell by contacting us for a consultation today.
