Apply to Cornell College
First-year application TRANSFER applicationINTERNATIONAL APPLICATION
What we're looking for in the Cornell College Application
Creative. Adaptive. Resourceful. Resilient. We seek a diverse group of students who are excited to explore and eager to learn. You won’t be a number at Cornell, nor do we judge your application solely on GPA or test scores. Here's what we're looking for: evidence of your academic ability and preparedness, an outline of your personal character, and an indication of what meaningful activities you are involved in. From there, we thoughtfully review all your application materials and get a sense of who you are.
Cornell is test-optional
We decided quite a while ago (in 2017) that the students who succeed at Cornell can't be measured by test scores alone, so we made it your choice whether you apply with ACT or SAT test scores or not. It doesn't affect your admission decision or scholarships either way. Learn more about how to apply without test scores.
Cornell does not charge application fees
Whether you choose to apply directly with Cornell's online application or add us to your Common Application, there is no fee to apply to Cornell College. The same is true for our all of our scholarship programs. You will automatically be considered for a merit scholarship with your application. Talent scholarships, like Fine Arts, Mock Trial, and Cheer and Dance will require additional materials, but also have no application fees.
Ready to apply to Cornell College? Here's what to do next.
Get to know if we are the right fit for you. Have your questions answered, explore the welcoming community, and learn about the Cornell College application process. It’s fast and easy!
Meet your admission counselor
Have questions about the block plan, the admission process, or financial aid? Reach out to one of our admission counselors; our team is eager to help and always available to answer your important questions.
Visit Cornell-in person or online
Come see our block. Visiting our scenic Mount Vernon campus firsthand is a great way to get to know the community. Hear from real students and faculty about their distinctive Cornell experiences, learn more about our block plan, and get a feel for campus life and how you’ll fit into it.
Or find an event close to home
Far from Cornell College? Our admission counselors may be near you. Check out our events on the road to see if representatives from Cornell College will be in your area soon.
Explore our academic programs
From One Course At A Time to Ingenuity at Cornell, you’ll find that we do things differently from high school and other colleges. Discover whether our distinctive block plan is right for you and browse our academic opportunities.
See how scholarships and financial aid help pay for Cornell
Find out which scholarships you'll automatically be considered for
You will automatically be considered for a merit scholarship when you apply to Cornell College. In fact, 99% of students receive some form of financial aid! Still want to offset costs? We also support state and federal grants, loans, federal and institutional work-study, and other resources that our financial aid team will be happy to help connect you with.
Chris Ndjungu
Pastor and nonprofit leader
Bridge Builders, InExcelsis, Espoir Foundation
St. Louis, MO
Still have questions?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our admission team. We’re always available to answer any questions you or your family may have about the Cornell College application process, One Course At A Time, or financial aid options—we love to talk to prospective students about Cornell!