Overview
Cornell College is a less selective private four-year institution in Mount Vernon, Iowa. The school accepts 79.3% of applicants and enrolls 1,074 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 79.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,275
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,170–1,380
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 1,074
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Cornell College accepts applications through the Common Application with a January 15 deadline for fall admission. You'll need to submit your high school transcript, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. SAT or ACT scores are optional for most applicants.
The school operates on a unique "One Course At A Time" block schedule where you take just one class for 18 days before moving to the next. This means you'll complete eight courses per academic year instead of juggling multiple classes simultaneously. Plan your course sequence carefully since some classes are only offered during specific blocks.
Housing is guaranteed for all four years, and you must live on campus unless you're married, over 23, or commuting from a parent's home within 50 miles. Submit your housing application early to get your preferred residence hall. New students attend a week-long orientation called "First Days" that introduces you to the block schedule system.
Register for classes during summer orientation rather than waiting until arrival. Popular courses fill quickly since class sizes are small. The computer science program has grown competitive due to strong job placement, so declare your major early if you're interested in that field.
Mount Vernon is a small town with limited off-campus dining and entertainment options. Bring a car or plan to rely on campus shuttles and ride-sharing with other students. The nearest major city is Cedar Rapids, about 20 minutes away.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $25,079/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $50,634
- Students Receiving Aid
- 29%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 71.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $53,460/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 74.2%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cornell College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Cornell College has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is Cornell College's application deadline?
Cornell College offers rolling admissions with priority deadlines of December 1 for fall semester and November 1 for spring semester. Applications are reviewed as they are received.
Does Cornell College offer early decision or early action admissions?
Cornell College does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are processed through their rolling admissions system.
How many transfer credits does Cornell College accept?
Cornell College accepts up to 17 course credits from other institutions. Students must complete at least 14 courses at Cornell College to earn their degree.