Head-to-head · 2026
Brown University vs Cornell University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 6 wins for Brown University, 1 for Cornell University — Brown University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| Metric | Brown University | Cornell University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 9.28 ✓ | 9.07 |
| Avg net price | $25,184 ✓ | $28,690 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $93,487 | $104,043 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 5.4% ✓ | 8.8% |
| Graduation rate | 95.7% ✓ | 95.4% |
| Median debt | $11,428 ✓ | $14,000 |
| Enrollment | 7,226 | 15,995 |
| Ownership | Private Non-Profit | Private Non-Profit |
| Avg SAT | 1546 ✓ | 1535 |
| Wins | 6 | 1 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Cornell University costs $3,506 more per year than Brown University ($28,690 vs $25,184). Cornell University graduates report $10,556 higher median earnings after ten years ($104,043 vs $93,487). On EduGradify's model that puts Brown University ahead on projected ROI (9.28 vs 9.07, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Brown University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Brown University is highly competitive at 5.4% acceptance versus 8.8% (highly competitive) at Cornell University.
Frequently asked
Brown University vs Cornell University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Brown University or Cornell University the better value?
Brown University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.28 vs 9.07), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Brown University is cheaper — average net price $25,184 per year vs $28,690 at Cornell University. The annual difference of $3,506 adds up to about $14,024 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Cornell University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $104,043 vs $93,487 at Brown University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,556.
Which school is harder to get into?
Brown University is more selective at 5.4% acceptance vs 8.8% at Cornell University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Brown University reports a B value grade; Cornell University reports B.