Cornell University

Founded in 1865 with a vision of combining practical and classical education, Cornell University has grown into one of the most comprehensive and globally respected research universities in the United States. As a member of the Ivy League, Cornell is distinctive for its broad academic scope, blending private and public missions across its colleges and campuses.

The university’s main campus is located in Ithaca, set against a dramatic landscape of gorges and lakes in upstate New York. Cornell also maintains specialized campuses and units in New York City and internationally, reflecting its commitment to global education, applied research, and industry engagement.

Cornell is known for its unusually wide range of academic programs, spanning agriculture and life sciences, engineering, business, hotel administration, architecture, veterinary medicine, law, and liberal arts. Key academic units include the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business, Cornell College of Engineering, Cornell Law School, and the highly regarded Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine. This diversity makes Cornell one of the most multidisciplinary universities in the world.

Research is central to Cornell’s identity, with strengths in artificial intelligence, agriculture, life sciences, engineering, hospitality management, environmental science, and social policy. The university operates numerous research centers and laboratories that contribute to scientific discovery, technological innovation, and global problem-solving.

Cornell also has a strong culture of public engagement and applied learning. Its land-grant mission emphasizes accessibility, outreach, and real-world impact, particularly in fields such as agriculture, food systems, and community development. This focus on practical application sets Cornell apart from many other elite universities.

For international students, Cornell University offers a unique combination of Ivy League prestige, academic flexibility, and interdisciplinary opportunity. Its expansive academic structure allows students to explore multiple fields while benefiting from a world-class faculty, strong research infrastructure, and a globally connected alumni network.

Today, Cornell continues to be recognized as a university where innovation meets tradition, preparing graduates to lead in academia, industry, government, and global organizations.