Students apply to Cornell using the Common Application, which can be completed and submitted online. A personal essay, sometimes referred to as the "personal statement," is part of the application. Cornell also requires students to respond to question(s) that are specific to the Cornell college or school to which they are applying. New this year, Cornell also requires a short essay response to the following prompt:

In the aftermath of the U.S. Civil War, Ezra Cornell wrote, "I would found an institution where any person can find instruction in any study." For over 150 years, Cornell University has remained deeply committed to Ezra's vision. Explain how your life experiences will help inform your contributions to a learning community devoted to "...any person...any study." We encourage you to think broadly about your life experiences, including how local (e.g., family, school, neighborhood) or global communities you've been part of have helped shape your perspective.

The Cornell undergraduate college or school a student applies to may have additional requirements, so it's important to review our How to Apply website for details. You may also want to read our advice for applicants.