Cornell University vs Imperial/UCL

Hello!
As the end of the year is just around the corner, I must begin taking decisions as to where I will study next year. I have been admitted to Cornell University (College of Arts and Sciences) and have conditional offers for both Imperial and UCL (Biology). I would really appreciate some help to aid in my decision. I would like to know your opinions on which school you think would be best, based on a few factors:

  1. Academic rigor
  2. Prestige in the eyes of recruiters/adcoms (I intend to pursue a PhD)
  3. Academic opportunities (such as undergraduate research, fieldwork, etc)
  4. Student experience and social life (yes, I know it’s not the most important, but I also want to enjoy my time at uni)
    Any input would be appreciated!

It all depends on where you want to live/work. If you want to live in the US after graduation, go for Cornell. If you want to live in the EU after graduation, go to Imperial (not UCL)

I have thought of this, but I am not quite sure yet where I would like to permanently settle. However, I am pretty sure that I would want to do a PhD in the US after my undergraduate degree, so I do not worry too much about job prospects yet. I think my parents are leaning much more towards Imperial, because it won’t financially cripple them so much. Do you think I have good chances to get accepted into a good PhD program in the States with a first from Imperial, or would they rather have someone from Cornell? I know that grad schools admit quite a few international students from top European schools, but I don’t know really how they are viewed in comparison to someone from an equality elite US college.

Definitely go to Imperial. Both are excellent schools, but imperial is 3 years only and much cheaper. You will have no problem whatsoever to get into a top grad school from imperial. Don’t worry about that. Just think about the difference between the liberal arts system of the US vs. the rigid system of imperial.

Price would depend on status, fin aid, etc.

The environment would be very different.
A city uni with no real campus in a terrific city vs. a campus in a college town that can be beautiful.

Thanks to both of you for your advice!