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College comparison
Cornell vs Georgetown
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Cornell Ithaca, NY |  Georgetown Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateCornell University is more selective | 9% | 13% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1500–1570 | 1390–1550 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 15,995 | 7,569 |
| Avg net price | $28,690 | $40,815 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Cornell reports higher median earnings | $104,043 | $103,494 |
| Graduation rate | 95% | 95% |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $15,500 |
| Economic mobility | 2.9% | 1.9% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Cornell vs Georgetown: how they compare
For an affluent, data-driven family, the choice between Cornell and Georgetown hinges on prioritizing quantifiable return on investment versus a more tailored cultural fit in a prestigious urban setting.
By the numbers Cornell demonstrates a stronger quantitative profile. It is more selective (9% vs. 13% acceptance) with a higher SAT 25-75th percentile range (1500–1570 vs. 1390–1550). While 10-year median earnings are nearly identical ($104k vs. $103k), Cornell’s lower average net price ($29k vs. $41k) yields a significantly higher value multiplier (3.6x vs. 2.5x earnings per dollar of net price). Cornell also shows greater economic mobility (291% vs. 195% rate) and a marginally stronger DOE financial health score (2.7/3 vs. 2.4/3). Both schools share a 95% graduation rate and high admit-rate volatility (39% vs. 37%).
Where they overlap Both are elite, private universities with urban-adjacent settings (Ithaca and Washington, D.C.) and exceptionally strong graduation outcomes. They attract high-achieving, globally-minded students and offer vast networks.
How they differ Culturally, they diverge sharply. Cornell is described as having an intense academic culture within a vast, sprawling campus in a college town, with a Greek life presence and outdoorsy orientation. Georgetown, embedded in the heart of D.C., forgoes Greek life for a club-centric and politically engaged social scene, with some clubs noted as competitive. The campus feel contrasts Cornell’s expansive, isolated beauty with Georgetown’s compact, historic integration into a world capital.
Who each suits Choose Cornell for a student prioritizing maximal financial ROI, a rigorous STEM and applied sciences focus, a classic large-university experience, and a self-contained, scenic campus. Choose Georgetown for a student drawn to politics, international relations, and law, who thrives in a competitive, club-driven social environment and values immediate access to the networking and internships of Washington, D.C., over a quantifiably higher value score.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Cornell University or Georgetown University harder to get into?
- Cornell University is more selective: Cornell University's acceptance rate is approximately 9% and Georgetown University's is approximately 13% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Cornell University vs Georgetown University?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1500–1570 at Cornell University and 1390–1550 at Georgetown University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.