A new way to tour Cornell
A typical Cornell tour can feel impersonal, leaving you with more questions than answers. You’re just a face in the crowd following a scripted tour led by a guide the school assigns you.
SchoolScoops offers private Cornell University tours tailored to your interests. Choose your own Cornell student tour guide and enjoy a personalized campus visit where you'll get candid answers to your questions.
SchoolScoops is the more personal way to tour Cornell University
Private and personalized Cornell tours
On a traditional Cornell University campus tour you’re just a number in a big group. With SchoolScoops, you can book a private Cornell University tour led by a real Cornell student, giving you a personalized campus visit and the chance to ask all the questions that are important to you.
Choose your own tour guide
Unlike a traditional Cornell University campus tour, SchoolScoops lets you choose your own tour guide. Whether you want to meet an engineering major, a student-athlete or a fellow transfer student, you'll get authentic insights and advice from someone who truly gets you.
No scripts, just scoops
Traditional Cornell University campus tours are essentially a sales pitch—the tour guide works for the school and their job is to show you the highlights. SchoolScoops guides don’t work for their school, so there’s no sales pitch—just honest, unfiltered advice about the Cornell experience.
Find out if Cornell is the school for you
Choosing where to go to college is a major decision and a huge investment. A private Cornell tour helps you decide if Cornell University is the right fit for your academic goals, career ambitions and college experience.
Featured Cornell tour guides
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Book a 1-on-1 video chat with a Cornell student for personalized insights. Learn about academics, campus culture, and Ithaca life without leaving home.
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Real feedback on student-led campus tours
Get to know Cornell University
Cornell University is a prestigious Ivy League research institution located in Ithaca, New York. Known for academic excellence across sciences, engineering, business, and the arts, Cornell combines innovation, tradition, and public engagement. Students thrive in a collaborative environment that blends world-class research with the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.
Overview
Founded in 1865, Cornell University is a private Ivy League research university in Ithaca, NY. It offers more than 100 academic programs across 16 colleges and schools, fostering interdisciplinary learning and global discovery. Students who book a Cornell University campus tour experience a dynamic university that values curiosity, creativity, and community.
Size
As of fall 2023, Cornell University enrolls approximately 26,278 students, including 16,071 undergraduates and 10,207 graduate students. A private Cornell University tour gives you an authentic look at how a world-class Ivy League school maintains close-knit academic and social communities.
Acceptance rate
Cornell University is one of the most selective Ivy League institutions, with an acceptance rate of around 8%. The middle 50% of admitted students report SAT scores between 1480–1560 or ACT scores between 33–35. A student-led Cornell campus tour helps applicants understand the admissions process and hear firsthand experiences from current Cornellians.
Cost
For the 2024–2025 academic year, Cornell University tuition and fees are approximately $69,000 annually, with equal rates for in-state and out-of-state students. About half of Cornell undergraduates receive financial aid, averaging $49,000 per year. Private Cornell University tours often highlight real student insights on scholarships, housing, and the cost of living in Ithaca.
Ranking
According to U.S. News & World Report, Cornell University ranks #11 among National Universities and is recognized globally for research excellence and innovation. Booking a Cornell University campus tour showcases why Cornell is consistently ranked among the top Ivy League schools.
Academics
Cornell offers over 100 majors and 80+ graduate fields across diverse disciplines, including engineering, agriculture, computer science, and business. With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Cornell promotes hands-on learning and collaboration. On a Cornell University tour, visitors can explore cutting-edge labs, libraries, and academic spaces that foster discovery and innovation.
Traditions
Cornell traditions bring the campus to life-from Dragon Day parades to Slope Day concerts, Homecoming celebrations, and the famous Chimes concerts at McGraw Tower. Experiencing these during a Cornell University campus tour reveals the energy and pride that define the Big Red community.
Campus landmarks
Cornell’s most iconic landmarks include McGraw Tower, Libe Slope, Beebe Lake, Sage Chapel, and the Cascadilla Gorge trail. Visitors on a Cornell University tour can also enjoy the stunning views from the Arts Quad and the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art overlooking Cayuga Lake.
Student body
Over 60% of Cornell students come from outside New York, representing all 50 U.S. states and 120+ countries. A private Cornell campus tour offers insight into the university’s diverse, global student community and the inclusive culture that shapes life in Ithaca.
Become a SchoolScoops guide
In college? Earn $40/hour hosting 1-on-1 campus tours and video chats with future students.
Become a guideYour Cornell University questions, answered
Where is Cornell University located?
Cornell University is located in Ithaca, New York-a scenic college town in the Finger Lakes region. A Cornell University campus tour lets you explore the hillside campus, nearby gorges, and downtown Ithaca, known for its restaurants, trails, and local charm.
Is Cornell an Ivy League university?
Yes. Cornell University is one of the eight Ivy League schools and is known for combining academic rigor with a strong commitment to innovation and public service.
How many students attend Cornell University?
Cornell enrolls approximately 26,000 students, with about 16,000 undergraduates and 10,000 graduate and professional students.
When was Cornell University founded?
Cornell was founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White, with the vision of creating a university where “any person can find instruction in any study.”
What is Cornell University known for?
Cornell excels in engineering, computer science, agriculture, architecture, hospitality, and business. The School of Hotel Administration and the College of Engineering are particularly renowned worldwide.
How hard is it to get into Cornell University?
With an acceptance rate near 8%, Cornell is highly selective. Strong academics, leadership experience, and demonstrated passion for your chosen field improve your chances.
How much is tuition at Cornell University?
For 2024–2025, Cornell’s tuition is approximately $69,000 per year. Cornell meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, and nearly half receive financial aid.
What is the Cornell University mascot?
The Big Red Bear represents Cornell’s athletic spirit. Cornell’s teams compete in NCAA Division I Ivy League athletics.
How far is Cornell University from New York City?
Cornell is about 225 miles northwest of New York City-a 4-5 hour drive. Many students travel between Ithaca and NYC for internships, events, and holidays.
What is student life like at Cornell University?
Cornell’s campus life is vibrant and diverse, offering over 1,000 student clubs, strong Greek life, and endless outdoor activities. On a Cornell campus tour, guides share firsthand insights about balancing academics, social life, and the Ithaca lifestyle.
Does Cornell University have early action or early decision?
Cornell offers an Early Decision (ED) program but does not offer Early Action. Applying ED can increase your chances if Cornell is your first choice.
Does Cornell offer private campus tours?
Yes! You can schedule official Cornell tours through the admissions office-or book a private Cornell University tour with SchoolScoops to meet a student guide of your choice for a personalized, 1-on-1 experience.
Interested in other schools?
SchoolScoops also offers tours and video chats at many other schools
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