Cornell University: Acceptance Process?

I'm stressed about applying to Cornell. Just curious, does anyone know how the acceptance process works there?

Cornell University, like many other elite institutions, has an acceptance process that's largely holistic, which means they take into account many factors beyond just academics. They look at the whole picture of a student applicant.

First, the university conducts an academic review. This involves an evaluation of your transcripts, the rigor of your course load (AP/IB courses, honors courses), grade trends (whether they've been getting better or if they've been consistent), and your standardized test scores (although Cornell is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle).

Another integral part of your application is your extracurricular activities. According to the tier system developed by CollegeVine, the more competitive and higher-level your activities are (think leadership roles, awards at the state/national level), the better they'll be perceived by colleges like Cornell.

Essays also play a significant role in the acceptance process at Cornell. The Cornell-specific supplement essay is particularly crucial, as it's an opportunity for you to show your genuine interest in the specific college at Cornell you're applying to, and your understanding of the academic opportunities and culture there.

Recommendation letters from teachers and school counselors can provide the admissions committee with insights about your character, intellectual curiosity, and contributions inside and outside the classroom.

Finally, Cornell, unlike some other Ivy League institutions, does consider demonstrated interest in the admissions process. However, it's a relatively minor aspect compared to the other factors.

The admissions team at Cornell reviews each component of your application and then makes a decision collectively. Please note, however, that every application cycle is unique due to the applicant pool, institutional priorities, and various other factors. Best of luck applying!