Cornell vs The Pennsylvania State University (PSU)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Cornell University and Penn State University?

  Cornell University is a private Ivy League research university located in Ithaca, New York, known for its decentralized college structure and strong emphasis on research across various fields. Penn State University, a public land-grant research university located in State College, Pennsylvania, is known for its large student body, strong engineering and agricultural programs, and vibrant campus life.

• How do the academic reputations of Cornell and Penn State compare?

  Cornell consistently ranks among the top universities globally, boasting a prestigious reputation across its diverse colleges, particularly in engineering, agriculture, law, and hospitality. Penn State is also a highly regarded public university, especially known for its engineering, earth and mineral sciences, and business programs. While both are excellent institutions, Cornell generally holds a higher overall ranking and is considered more selective.

• What is the difference in cost of attendance between Cornell and Penn State?

  As a private university, Cornell's tuition is significantly higher than Penn State's, especially for out-of-state students. Penn State, being a public university, offers lower tuition rates for Pennsylvania residents. However, both universities offer financial aid and scholarships to eligible students, which can significantly impact the net cost of attendance.

• How do the student bodies at Cornell and Penn State differ?

  Cornell has a more geographically diverse student body, drawing students from across the United States and internationally. Penn State's student body is primarily composed of students from Pennsylvania and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region. Penn State has a significantly larger undergraduate population than Cornell.

• What are the strengths of Cornell's academic programs?

  Cornell excels in a wide range of academic areas, including engineering (especially computer science and aerospace), agriculture and life sciences, hotel administration, architecture, law, and veterinary medicine. Its decentralized college structure allows for specialized programs and interdisciplinary studies.

• What are the strengths of Penn State's academic programs?

  Penn State is particularly strong in engineering (especially materials science and industrial engineering), earth and mineral sciences, business administration, agriculture, and meteorology. It also offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

• How does campus life differ between Cornell and Penn State?

  Cornell's campus is located in the scenic Finger Lakes region of New York, offering a more intimate and academically focused environment. Penn State's campus in State College is a classic college town, known for its vibrant social scene, strong school spirit, and extensive extracurricular activities, including a large Greek life presence.

• What research opportunities are available at Cornell and Penn State?

  Both Cornell and Penn State are major research universities with extensive research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Cornell's research is particularly strong in areas like biotechnology, nanotechnology, and sustainability. Penn State's research strengths include materials science, energy, and environmental science.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare?

  Both universities offer comprehensive career services, including career counseling, resume workshops, and internship placement assistance. Cornell's alumni network is highly influential and global, providing graduates with valuable connections in various industries. Penn State's alumni network, known as the Penn State Alumni Association, is one of the largest in the world and provides strong regional and national connections.

• What are the admission requirements for Cornell and Penn State?

  Both universities have selective admission processes. Cornell, being an Ivy League institution, has a lower acceptance rate and typically requires higher standardized test scores and a stronger academic record. Penn State's admission requirements are also competitive, but generally less stringent than Cornell's. Both universities consider a holistic review of applicants, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

• What is the surrounding environment like for each university?

  Cornell is located in Ithaca, NY, a smaller city in the Finger Lakes region known for its natural beauty, gorges, and waterfalls. It offers a more secluded and academically focused environment. Penn State is located in State College, PA, a classic college town with a lively atmosphere, offering a more traditional college experience with numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options catering to students.

• Do Cornell and Penn State offer similar extracurricular activities?

  Both universities offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, sports teams, and performing arts groups. Penn State, with its larger student body, generally has a greater number and variety of clubs and organizations. Cornell offers a strong focus on research-oriented clubs and activities, reflecting its academic emphasis.