Cornell College Overview

Cornell College is a private liberal arts college located in Mount Vernon, Iowa. Established in 1853, it is known for its unique one-course-at-a-time academic calendar called the “Block Plan,” which allows students to focus intensively on one subject at a time. The college has a close-knit community with around 1,000 students and emphasizes experiential learning and leadership development.

Cornell College Offered Programs

  • Anthropology
  • Art
  • Biology
  • Business Administration
  • Chemistry
  • Communication
  • Computer Science
  • Education
  • English
  • Environmental Studies
  • History
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Philosophy
  • Physics
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology
  • Theatre Arts

Cornell College Tuition Fees

Student TypeEstimated Annual Tuition & Fees
Undergraduate$54,000

Cornell College Required Documents and Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

  • Completed application form
  • Official high school transcripts
  • SAT or ACT scores (test-optional policy)
  • Personal essay
  • Letters of recommendation (optional)

Cornell College Deadlines

TermApplication OpensApplication DeadlineClasses Begin
Fall 2025August 2024July 15, 2025Mid August 2025
Spring 2026September 2025December 1, 2025January 2026

Cornell College Scholarships Offerings

  • Merit-based scholarships
  • Need-based financial aid
  • Leadership scholarships
  • Talent scholarships in arts and athletics

Cornell College Rankings

Ranking SourceNational RankWorld Rank
U.S. News National Liberal Arts Colleges130

Cornell College Acceptance Rate

Cornell College has an acceptance rate of approximately 65%, reflecting a moderately selective admissions process.

Cornell College Student Campus Life (with accommodation options)

Student life at Cornell includes a variety of clubs, arts programs, intramural sports, and community service opportunities. The college fosters a supportive and collaborative environment.

On-Campus Housing Options:

  • Traditional residence halls
  • Theme housing options
  • Meal plans with several dining venues

Cornell College Cost of Living

Mount Vernon offers a low to moderate cost of living, making it affordable for students living on or near campus.

Expense CategoryEstimated Annual Cost
Room and Board$10,500
Books and Supplies$1,200
Transportation$800
Personal Expenses$1,800
Health Insurance$1,500
Total Estimated Cost$14,800

Cornell College Contact Informations

  • Website: cornellcollege.edu
  • Phone Number: +1 (319) 895‑4295
  • Email Address: admissions@cornellcollege.edu
  • Address: 600 First St SW, Mount Vernon, IA 52314, United States

Cornell College Online Application

Applications can be submitted online through Cornell College’s application portal or the Common Application. Required materials include transcripts, test scores (optional), essays, and recommendations. Early application is encouraged to improve admission chances and scholarship eligibility.