
600 First Street South West, Mount Vernon, IA 52314-1098, USA


Cornell College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an organization recognized by the U. S. Department of Education to evaluate and ensure the quality of post-secondary institutions. This accreditation affirms that the college meets established standards of academic rigor, institutional integrity, and continuous improvement.
Cornell College requires applicants to have completed high school or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. A secondary school grade point average is mandatory for admission consideration. While specific details about secondary school rank and records are not provided, certain competencies and other test scores are recommended during the application process. The college does not operate an open admission policy, nor does it offer dual credit or credit programs prior to enrollment, but it does accept Advanced Placement credits.
A computer is necessary for application, although the college does not offer computer leasing options. Applicants are encouraged to submit additional competencies and standardized test scores, even though no formal admission tests or TOEFL requirements are specified.
The acceptance rate at Cornell College stands at approximately 81%, positioning it in the top 35% in selectivity. The mean Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) score for admitted students is 1280, which ranks in the top 20% nationally, with strong subscores of 620 in Math and 660 in Writing. The average American College Testing (ACT) score is 27, placing applicants in the top 30% nationally. Distribution of ACT scores shows the majority of enrolled students scoring between 17 and 29, and only a small percentage below 17.
Cornell College requires prospective students to submit an application fee when applying. However, detailed information about the exact application fee amount is not provided. Applicants seeking financial relief may be eligible for fee waivers under certain conditions. These waivers aim to reduce barriers for students who might face financial challenges during the application process. It is advisable for applicants to inquire directly with the admissions office to determine their eligibility and the process for requesting a waiver. The college emphasizes accessibility and aims to accommodate students from diverse economic backgrounds through these provisions.
Cornell College does not offer any Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs directly on its campus. Prospective students interested in participating in ROTC while attending Cornell College would need to consider cross-enrollment options with nearby universities that provide such military training programs. This arrangement allows students to pursue their academic studies at Cornell College while completing ROTC requirements at an affiliated institution.
Cornell College welcomes transfer students and accepts transfer credits. Prospective students have the option to transfer in the fall and spring terms. While specific information about accepting credits from CLEP General, CLEP Subject, or DANTES exams is not provided, the college does confirm its openness to transfer credits in general. This flexibility may assist students who have completed coursework elsewhere in continuing their education without starting over.
Cornell College offers a distinctive study abroad experience primarily through its unique One Course At A Time academic calendar. This structure facilitates immersive, short-term study abroad programs where students can dedicate an entire term exclusively to international study without the distraction of other courses.
The college organizes faculty-led trips to various global destinations, allowing participants to engage deeply with the culture, history, and society of the host country. These programs vary in length but generally span a single academic term, maximizing focus and immersion.
Additionally, Cornell College supports independent study abroad arrangements, providing students with the flexibility to pursue off-campus learning opportunities that fit their specific academic and personal interests. The institution maintains partnerships with various international universities and programs to ensure credits earned abroad contribute to students' academic progress.
The emphasis on experiential learning within these programs helps students gain a broader worldview and develop skills valuable in a global context. Students considering study abroad at Cornell College can expect programs tailored to integrate seamlessly with their academic goals while offering direct cultural engagement.
Median composite SAT score
1280Median composite ACT score
27Percent of students submitting ACT scores
28%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
14%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
YesComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
Data not availableCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
Data not availableOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring