This guide ranks 11 colleges in New York by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.

What is the hardest college to get into in New York?

Columbia University in the City of New York has the lowest acceptance rate among New York colleges on this list at 4.2%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.

Which New York college has the highest graduate salary?

Cornell University graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among New York colleges on this list, at $104,043. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.

Should I stay in New York for college?

In-state public colleges in New York typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in New York charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.

Top Colleges in New York

FAQs about colleges in New York

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