AdmissionsOS Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute vs State University of New York at Cortland
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | State University of New York at Cortland | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 63% | 60% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,375-1,510 | n/a |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 30-34 | n/a |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $36,228 | $22,345 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $82,404 | $28,108 |
| Graduation rate | 84% | 68% |
| Retention rate | 91% | 81% |
| Undergraduates | 5,714 | 5,901 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 14:1 | 15:1 |
| Setting | Troy, NY | Cortland, NY |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Public |
| Application fee | $70 | $50 |
| Test policy | Required for some | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute or State University of New York at Cortland harder to get into?
State University of New York at Cortland is more selective, with a 60% acceptance rate versus 63% at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute or State University of New York at Cortland?
State University of New York at Cortland has the lower average net price ($22,345 versus $36,228). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.