Cornell University financial aid for international students

Scholarship Overview

Cornell University offers need-based financial aid specifically designed for international undergraduate students. This program is intended to support students who have been admitted to the university and demonstrate significant financial need. As a premier Ivy League institution, Cornell welcomes applicants from across the globe, providing a pathway to study in New York, USA, for a duration of four years.

Can Pakistani Students Apply?

Yes, Pakistani students are eligible to apply for this financial aid. The program is open to international students from all countries, provided they meet the admission and financial aid requirements of the university.

Funding and Benefits

The funding provided is need-based, meaning the exact amount of assistance is determined by the university's evaluation of the student's documented financial circumstances. The financial aid is only available to students who are formally admitted to an undergraduate degree program at Cornell University.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for financial aid, applicants must satisfy several rigorous criteria:

• Language Proficiency: A minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL iBT or 7.0 on the IELTS is required.
• Standardized Testing: Applicants must submit SAT or ACT scores. Specific programs, such as Engineering, may require additional subject tests.
• Financial Documentation: Applicants must complete and submit the CSS Profile to demonstrate their financial need.
• Academic Records: Submission of at least three years of high school records is mandatory. All documents must be official and translated into English.

Required Documents

• Official high school transcripts (translated into English).
• SAT or ACT test scores.
• Language proficiency test results (TOEFL/IELTS).
• Completed CSS Profile.
• Personal statement (maximum 650 words).

Application Timeline

• Early Decision Deadline: November 1, 2026.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 2, 2027.

Selection Process

The selection process is integrated with the general undergraduate admissions process. Applications are reviewed based on academic merit, extracurricular engagement, and the personal statement, while the financial aid award is determined by the financial information provided via the CSS profile.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official Cornell undergraduate application portal to review specific instructions.
2. Create an account on the Common App and search for Cornell University.
3. Complete the profile, family, and education sections of the Common App.
4. Submit your personal statement and ensure all standardized test scores and transcripts are sent.
5. Pay the $80 application fee or request a fee waiver if you qualify.

Pakistan-Specific Application Advice

For students applying from Pakistan, ensure that your high school transcripts are translated by an official authority. Prepare for your English language tests well in advance as these scores are strict requirements for international applicants. Always verify your status on the official Common App portal to ensure all documents are received by the university before the stated deadlines.

Important Terms and Limitations

This aid is purely need-based and requires documentation through the CSS profile. It does not guarantee full funding for every admitted student. Applicants must confirm their specific major requirements regarding SAT subject tests directly through the official admissions website.