Applying to Cornell is a bit different – you don’t just apply to a major, you apply to a specific undergraduate college or school. This is one of the most important decisions prospective students will make, and it can feel overwhelming at first. With several undergraduate colleges and schools to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you?

Academic Interests

Each college and school has its own majors and academic strengths. For example, if you’re interested in Computer Science, you can pursue this major through either the College of Engineering or the College of Arts & Sciences. The CS major is identical in both colleges – the same courses, major requirements, and faculty, but the difference lies in the non-major requirements. The College of Arts & Sciences has distribution and foreign language requirements, while the College of Engineering has a structured core curriculum. So, your choice depends on what kind of courses you want to take outside your major.

Fit

Fit means more than just liking the major – it’s about where you’ll thrive. Do you prefer a flexible curriculum or a more structured one? Are you excited about exploring languages and humanities, or do you want to delve deeper into technical courses? Think about the kind of learning environment, advising, and community that will support your goals.

Requirements

It’s also important to know that each college and school has its own admissions requirements and criteria for what they are looking for in an applicant. Some are more specialized and may require portfolios, video interviews, or specific coursework. These reflect the academic focus and expectations of each college and school, so be sure to review them carefully.

My Advice

The best advice is to explore thoroughly (and early!). Visit the College and School webpages, review the Courses of Study page, attend info sessions, visit campus or attend a virtual session, and talk to current students. Imagine where you’ll feel most at home, both academically and personally.

Remember, at Cornell, your college or school is your starting point, not your limit. Many students take classes across colleges, collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, and discover new interests along the way. The key is to choose the place where you’ll grow, explore, and thrive!