Learn about the Cornell transfer acceptance rate and requirements below.
Cornell, once seen as the easiest Ivy League school to get into, now has a very low acceptance rate for high school applicants. However, for those who didn’t get in initially, Cornell accepts over 800 transfer students annually.
What’s more, the Cornell transfer acceptance rate is about twice as high as the rate for high school applicants. In this blog, we’ll uncover details like Cornell’s transfer acceptance rate, deadline, requirements, decision date, and other important information.
Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate
Below, we present the most recent available Cornell University transfer acceptance rate, including historical data.
In 2022, 5,761 students applied for transfer admission to Cornell University, but 798 were accepted. This shows that the Cornell transfer acceptance rate is 13.8%. If we split this down by gender, the acceptance rates are as follows:
- Male transfer applicants: 11%
- Female transfer applicants: 17%
In 2021, there were 5,908 transfer applicants, and 929 applicants were accepted. This indicates that the Cornell transfer acceptance rate was 15.7% for that year.
When trying to understand how difficult it is to transfer to a given school, it is important to look at historical records and data. Many schools have seen wild changes in transfer acceptance rates from year to year. As you have seen, the Cornell University transfer acceptance rate has indeed been somewhat irregular in recent years, ranging from 13% to 18%.
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Historical transfer acceptance rates are as follows:
Year | Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate |
2020 | 18% |
2019 | 13% |
2018 | 17% |
2017 | 18% |
Transfer Enrollments by College or School
School/College | Number of Transfer Students Enrolled (Fall 2023) |
College of Arts & Sciences | 73 |
College of Engineering | 30 |
SC Johnson College of Business, Hotel School | 31 |
College of Architecture, Art and Planning | 4 |
College of Agriculture & Life Sciences | 258 |
SC College of Business, Dyson School | 33 |
College of Human Ecology | 76 |
School of Industrial and Labor Relations | 133 |
Brooks School of Public Policy | 21 |
Cornell University Transfer Deadline
Cornell University offers both a fall and spring transfer admission cycle. The transfer deadline for fall applicants is March 15. While the deadline for spring applicants is October 15. However, in the recent cycle, spring transfer students were not being accepted, so be mindful of that possibility.
Cornell Transfer Acceptance Requirements
Below are the Cornell transfer requirements:
- A Common App for Transfer
- College Report
- Final high school transcripts
- College transcripts
- One Letter of recommendation
- Mid-Term Report
- Portfolios and other supplemental materials (for specific majors)
Tips: Students who have the best chance to secure admission to Cornell have done the following successfully:
- Earned exceptional grades in their first year at a community college or 4-year university.
- Completed not less than 12 credits of college coursework.
- Have completed (or are in the process of completing) the required coursework for their intended major or college.
Additionally, it’s crucial to grasp the specific transfer prerequisites of the individual colleges within Cornell to which you intend to apply. For instance, various architecture programs might mandate a portfolio submission, an interview, or a writing sample.
Applicants to the College of Human Ecology might need to fulfill a design challenge. As for those applying to biological engineering, prerequisites might include the completion of a full year of biology with lab, two college-level writing and composition courses, proficiency in integral and multivariable calculus, as well as knowledge of computer programming.
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Cornell Acceptance Rate: Cornell Transfer GPA
To be eligible for transfer consideration, a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. However, for specific programs like those within Dyson or for majors like economics or biology within Arts and Sciences, the GPA requirement increases to 3.5. Nonetheless, based on our experience, applicants aiming to be highly competitive at Cornell should ideally maintain a GPA of 3.75 or higher.
Cornell Transfer Requirements: Writing Supplement
Note: Academic Interest Essay (all applicants are required to complete this)
In the wake of the U.S. Civil War, Ezra Cornell wrote, “I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study.” For over 150 years now, Cornell University has remained sincerely committed to Ezra’s vision.
In line with that, explain in your essay how your life experiences will help inform your contributions to a learning community devoted to “any person, any study.” We advise you to think broadly about your life experiences, including how local (e.g., family, school, neighborhood) or global communities you’ve been part of have helped shape your perspective.
Note: Your responses should be no longer than 1500 characters.
For College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Applicants Only
Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is an exclusive institution of scientific learning, tackling the difficult challenges of our time through purpose-driven science. Here, discuss how your past academic and/or work experience has influenced your choice of major and how transferring to Cornell CALS would promote your academic interests. Your responses should be no longer than 3000 characters.
Cornell Transfer Decision Date
The Cornell transfer decision date will happen at some point in either May or June. However, spring applicants will receive a decision in November.
Our Final Reviews on Cornell University Transfer Acceptance Rate: Cornell
Transfer Acceptance Rate
Unlike certain Ivy League institutions, this university boasts a more accessible pathway foradmission through transfer. In the latest enrollment cycle, 88% of incoming transfer students arrived from 4-year universities, while 12% transferred from community colleges.
The criteria prioritize academic excellence, as demonstrated by a stellar college transcript. Moreover, one-third of successful transfers gained New York State residency, and 11% identified as belonging to underrepresented minority groups.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate
Cornell University is a highly reputable institution with competitive admission standards for transfer students. Here are some FAQs regarding transfer acceptance rates at Cornell:
What is Cornell University’s transfer acceptance rate?
The transfer acceptance rate at Cornell University varies by college or school within the university. As of my last update, the overall transfer acceptance rate was around 15-20%. However, this figure can change annually and can differ among different colleges within Cornell.
Are there specific requirements for transfer students?
Yes, Cornell has specific requirements for transfer applicants, including a minimum number of college credits completed, a strong college GPA, and often specific coursework completed depending on the college to which you’re applying. Additionally, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation are typically required.
Which colleges at Cornell are more transfer-friendly?
The transfer acceptance rate may differ across colleges within Cornell. Some colleges might have higher transfer acceptance rates compared to others. For instance, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Human Ecology have historically been known to accept a higher percentage of transfer students compared to the College of Engineering or the School of Industrial and Labor Relations.
What can increase the chances of being accepted as a transfer student?
Strong academic performance in college, involvement in extracurricular activities, a compelling reason for transferring, a well-crafted personal statement, and strong letters of recommendation can positively impact your chances of being accepted as a transfer student at Cornell.
Is it more challenging to transfer into certain majors?
Yes, some majors might be more competitive for transfer applicants due to limited space or higher demand. For instance, majors within the College of Engineering or majors related to business might have more stringent requirements and, therefore, higher competition for transfer students.
Are there resources available to help with the transfer process?
Yes, Cornell’s admissions office usually offers resources, including information sessions, application guidance, and resources on their website dedicated to transfer applicants. Additionally, speaking with academic advisors at your current institution can help navigate the transfer process.
Remember, these statistics and details can change, so I recommend checking Cornell’s official website or contacting their admissions office directly for the most current and accurate information regarding transfer acceptance rates and requirements.
Transfer Credit Evaluation: Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate
Cornell typically evaluates transfer credits on a case-by-case basis. They might accept credits from other accredited institutions, but the exact transferable credits can vary based on the courses, grades, and the specific college or program you’re applying to within Cornell.
Timing and Deadlines:
It’s essential to adhere strictly to transfer application deadlines. Cornell, like many universities, often has specific deadlines for transfer applications. Missing these deadlines can significantly impact your chances of acceptance.
Importance of Fit: Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate
Cornell values applicants who demonstrate a genuine interest in the university and its programs. Showing a clear understanding of how your academic and personal goals align with what Cornell offers can enhance your application.
Letters of Recommendation:
Strong letters of recommendation from professors or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities and potential can significantly bolster your application.
Demonstrating Engagement:
Highlighting your involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, internships, or research experiences can showcase your holistic engagement beyond academics.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate
For transfer students, financial aid and scholarship opportunities might differ from those available to incoming freshmen. It’s crucial to explore and understand the financial aid options specifically available for transfer applicants at Cornell.
Transfer Student Support Services: Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate
Cornell often has resources and support services tailored to the needs of transfer students. These may include orientation programs, academic advising, and clubs or organizations specifically aimed at integrating transfer students into the university community.
Reapplication Option: Cornell Transfer Acceptance Rate
If your application isn’t successful, some colleges at Cornell allow transfer applicants to reapply for a subsequent semester or year. Taking advantage of this opportunity while improving your academic profile or application materials can potentially enhance your chances of acceptance.
Transfer Credit Limitations:
While Cornell accepts transfer credits, there might be limitations on the number of credits that can be applied toward your Cornell degree. Understanding these limitations beforehand can help in planning your academic pathway.
When applying as a transfer student, ensuring that your application materials are polished, highlighting your strengths and fit with Cornell’s academic and cultural environment, can significantly improve your chances of acceptance.
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