Cornell University vs Northeastern University Oakland
Cornell University is extremely selective with a 8.2% acceptance rate, making it harder to get into than Northeastern University Oakland (16.5%). Graduates of Cornell University earn $32,582 more per year at the 10-year mark ($91,176 vs $58,594). For families earning $48k–$75k, Cornell University is more affordable at $9,785 net price vs $22,894. Students at Cornell University graduate with less debt ($14,500 vs $22,500).
Admissions & Outcomes
Cornell University has a higher yield rate (66.0%), meaning a larger share of admitted students choose to enroll — a strong signal of student preference. Cornell University has a higher median SAT (1520 vs 1470).
Net Price by Family Income
Net price is what you actually pay after grants and scholarships — often far less than the sticker price. It varies dramatically by family income. For low-income families ($0–$30k), Cornell University is more affordable at $5,244 per year. At higher incomes ($110k+), the gap narrows — $52,887 vs $37,997.
Net price data from College Scorecard. Run each school's net price calculator for a personalized estimate based on your family's finances.
Financial Aid
Institutional grants come directly from the school's endowment and don't need to be repaid. A high institutional grant rate means the school is investing its own funds in affordability. Northeastern University Oakland enrolls more Pell Grant recipients (46%), indicating stronger support for students from lower-income backgrounds.
Highest-Earning Majors
Median earnings within two years of graduation. Your choice of major often has a bigger impact on lifetime earnings than the school name on your diploma.
Cornell University
- 1 Computer Science$122,485
- 2 Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering$92,277
- 3 Mathematics$91,211
- 4 Operations Research$85,538
- 5 Computer and Information Sciences, General$82,641
Northeastern University Oakland
- 1 Computer and Information Sciences, General$89,413
- 2 Business/Commerce, General$63,111
- 3 Economics$60,046
- 4 Health and Medical Administrative Services$38,289
- 5 Biology, General$38,108
Most Popular Majors
The most popular majors by number of degrees awarded. This gives you a sense of each school's academic strengths and where students concentrate.
Cornell University
- 1 Computer Science
- 2 Human Resources Management and Services
- 3 Hospitality Administration/Management
- 4 Biology, General
- 5 Agricultural Business and Management
Northeastern University Oakland
- 1 Fine and Studio Arts
- 2 Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate)
- 3 English Language and Literature, General
- 4 Biology, General
- 5 Sociology
Campus & Student Body
Enrollment size, diversity, and retention paint a picture of campus culture. A high retention rate means students are satisfied enough to return after freshman year.
For International Students
Key cost and campus considerations for students coming from outside the US.
Cornell University
- International students26%
- Tuition (international)$58,586
- Est. total cost/year$75,038
- School typePublic
Northeastern University Oakland
- International students21%
- Tuition (international)$62,000
- School typePublic
What international students should know
- International students pay out-of-state tuition at public universities. Private universities charge the same tuition for all students.
- Most federal financial aid (FAFSA, Pell Grants) is not available to international students. Look for institutional aid and merit scholarships.
- F-1 visa holders can work on-campus during the school year and use CPT/OPT for internships and post-graduation employment.
- Schools with a higher international student percentage typically have stronger support services — dedicated international offices, visa advising, and cultural programs.
- With 26% international enrollment, Cornell University likely has a well-established international student community.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it harder to get into Cornell University or Northeastern University Oakland?
Cornell University is more selective with a 8.2% acceptance rate, compared to 16.5%. Both are competitive schools that receive tens of thousands of applications each year.
Which school has higher earnings: Cornell University or Northeastern University Oakland?
Cornell University graduates earn more at the 10-year mark, with median earnings of $91,176 compared to $58,594. Earnings vary significantly by major — STEM fields typically produce the highest returns at both schools.
Which is cheaper: Cornell University or Northeastern University Oakland?
For middle-income families ($48k–$75k), Cornell University has a lower net price at $9,785 per year vs $22,894. Net price varies by family income — use each school's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
What is the graduation rate at Cornell University vs Northeastern University Oakland?
Cornell University has a higher 6-year graduation rate at 95.4%, compared to 65.2%. A high graduation rate signals strong academic support, student engagement, and a campus culture where students thrive.
Which school has more international students: Cornell University or Northeastern University Oakland?
Cornell University has a larger international student population at 26% of enrollment. A higher international student percentage often means stronger support services for visa holders, including dedicated international student offices, OPT/CPT guidance, and cultural programming.
What are the highest-paying majors at Cornell University and Northeastern University Oakland?
At Cornell University, Computer Science graduates earn a median of $122,485 within two years. At Northeastern University Oakland, the top-earning major is Computer and Information Sciences, General at $89,413. Your choice of major often has a bigger impact on earnings than which school you attend.