Cornell University vs. New York University: Cost, Bar Passage & Outcomes Compared
Both are New York law schools. On the most recent ABA Standard 509 data, Cornell University is the more selective admit (median LSAT 173 vs 172); New York University posts the higher first-time bar passage (96.7% vs 96.4%); New York University is cheaper on sticker tuition ($83,952 vs $84,722); Cornell University places more graduates in full-time JD jobs (99.5% vs 99.3%).
Side by side (ABA Standard 509)
| Metric | Cornell University | New York University | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admissions | |||
| Median LSAT | 173 | 172 | Cornell University |
| Median undergraduate GPA | 3.92 | 3.92 | Tie |
| Acceptance rate | 18.2% | 13.4% | New York University |
| Cost | |||
| Resident tuition | $84,722 | $83,952 | New York University |
| Non-resident tuition | $84,722 | $83,952 | New York University |
| Median grant | $30,000 | $20,000 | Cornell University |
| Bar passage | |||
| First-time bar passage | 96.4% | 96.7% | New York University |
| Two-year ultimate bar passage | 95.3% | 98.7% | New York University |
| Bar passage vs. state average | +11.7 pts | +11.7 pts | Tie |
| Employment | |||
| Full-time, long-term JD employment | 99.5% | 99.3% | Cornell University |
| Large-firm (250+) employment | 63.0% | 65.2% | New York University |
| Federal clerkships | 5.6% | 5.5% | Cornell University |
trajectory since 2011
Full profiles & related
Cornell University full profile · New York University full profile · Pin both on the interactive map → · All New York law schools
FAQ
Is Cornell University or New York University harder to get into?
Cornell University is the tougher admit — its median LSAT is 173 against New York University's 172.
Which is cheaper, Cornell University or New York University?
New York University is cheaper on sticker: resident tuition of $83,952 versus Cornell University's $84,722.
Which has better bar passage, Cornell University or New York University?
New York University has the higher first-time bar passage, 96.7% against Cornell University's 96.4%.
Which has better job outcomes, Cornell University or New York University?
Cornell University places more graduates in full-time, long-term JD jobs (99.5% vs 99.3%).
Source: ABA Standard 509 Required Disclosures, most recent reported cycle. Last updated June 26, 2026.