Frequently Asked Questions
May I apply as an international student during early decision?
Yes, an increasing portion of the College of Engineering's early decision pool are international applicants.
May I apply for financial aid as an international applicant?
Yes, but it is limited. Cornell University provides need-based financial aid on a limited basis to a selected number of admitted international students who have applied for financial aid. For international applicants and undocumented applicants without DACA status, we are need-aware for admissions.
We do not offer merit, athletic or talent-based aid to students. Students who are admitted and demonstrate financial need will receive a financial aid package that meets 100% of their demonstrated need (Cornell University does not provide partial financial aid awards). For further information on applying for aid as an international student, please visit the Office of Financial Aid and Student Employment.
I want to enroll at Cornell but I am still waiting to hear from my scholarship committee. What should I do?
Please email the Engineering Admissions Office at engr_admissions@cornell.edu to let us know of your special circumstance. Include your full name, address, and when you expect to hear from the scholarship committee. Deposit extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis.
When will I receive my I-20 Form?
In order to receive an I-20, students must: be accepted to Cornell, submit their $400 required acceptance deposit, and document their ability to meet the cost of attendance by submitting the Declaration of Finances form. Visa documentation and approval will take time so please submit your Declaration of Finances form when you send your acceptance deposit. For more information, see the United States Government's Visa website and Cornell's International Services Office.
I have been admitted to Cornell Engineering but my country requires military service, what should I do?
Admitted first-year students who are required to complete military service can apply for a 1 or 2 year deferral of their enrollment. Please note that a deferral is not formally granted until the Cornell Bursar's Office has received the enrollment deposit of $400 for a 1-year deferral or $800 for a 2-year deferral.