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Tuition and Expenses

Tuition and Estimated Cost of Living

Tuition and estimated cost of living for the year 2025-2026
Expense CategoryNew York State ResidentNon-New York State Resident
Tuition $44,666$66,604
Mandatory Fees$690$690
Housing$16,796$16,796
Meals$5,654$5,654
Books and Supplies$2,466$2,466
Transportation$3,544$3,544
Loan Fees$244$244
Miscellaneous$4,248$4,248
Total Estimated Cost of Attendance$78,308$100,246

The tuition rate is determined every year in the spring preceding the start of the academic year. Mandatory fees include the student activity fee and student health fee.

Additional Budgeting Considerations

Budget Worksheet

The above estimated living costs indicate the maximum allowed for financial aid purposes. Students should calculate actual expenses to limit borrowing student loans when possible. We created this Budget Worksheet to assist you.

Student Health Plan

All students at Cornell are required to maintain quality health insurance. Students not covered by an existing plan will need to include the student health plan cost in their budget. More can be found at the Office of Student Health Benefits website.

Parking Permit Fees

If you plan to park on campus, you need to purchase a parking pass. Most students spend about $360 per year on a parking permit. More information can be found at the Parking and Transportation website.

Student Loan Deferment: No Action Required

Cornell University automatically reports your enrollment status to loan servicers through the National Student Clearinghouse after classes begin each semester. This means:

  • Students do not need to complete or submit any deferment forms.
  • The loan servicer will use this enrollment data to place student loans into deferment.
  • This process typically occurs within 10 business days after enrollment data is transmitted
  • Contact Cornell University Registrar directly if you have private loans that do not automatically defer

Want to know when student enrollment is reported? Learn about enrollment certification timelines. Current students can view and request enrollment verification via Student Center.

Leaving and Withdrawing

If a student is approved for a leave of absence or withdrawal from the university, tuition may be prorated. The date of the leave or withdrawal request will determine the student's tuition liability for the semester. More information can be found on the Bursar's Office website.