I’ve heard that Cornell has a curve so that everyone is basically competing against each other for an A. Is this true or is it just in some classes?
Also, how difficult would you say Cornell is? As far as the Ivy Leagues go, I’ve heard that Cornell pretty difficult.
The curve depends on the class and professor. There’s no single curve used at Cornell or anything. And yeah, I guess you could say you’re “competing” against other students, but that’s basically the definition of a curve.
It depends which major/college you’re in but yeah, in general, Cornell is difficult. The saying is, ‘the easiest part of Cornell is getting in.’
In my daughter’s linear algebra class the average on one of the prelims was a 54, so yes, that class is curved.
I’ve had some classes that were not curved and quite a few that were curved. Most are curved to a B, but I have heard of professors occasionally curving to a B- and sometimes to a B+ even. And yes, you do in a sense compete with each other for the grades you get.
Also, I think Cornell is hard for everyone, but some majors are even more demanding than others. I think that as long as you are willing to put in the work you will be fine, but you really should commit to studying a certain amount of hours per week (normally 3 hours per credit, so about 45 in total per week for an “average” course load). It took me some time to adapt to this way of thinking. In high school, I didn’t have to study very much but that sure changed when I got to Cornell! So, I would say Cornell is definitely doable, but you must take your classes very seriously and put school first if you want to do well.
Your high school study habits will likely not take you farther in Cornell from what I have seen. You should be able and willing to put in time to get good grades. Also, remember, everyone there is at least as smart as you - if not more. So, curved or not - competition will be there - like at any super selective college.
Most every college has some classes that are curved and some that are not, so don’t let that be the defining factor in your decision. For this semester, I had two classes which were not curved and two classes which were. Also, every professor does their “curve” differently, as was mentioned in an earlier reply. For example, some professors have a curve, but they only change your grade if the curve helps you; others will curve down. Additionally, as was mentioned, professors can choose what grade they curve to. A lot of my friends had classes which were curved to a B-. My two classes were both curved to a B. Most professors make it a fair grading scale!
As for your question on difficulty, Cornell is a really prestigious university, so it is going to be difficult. However, according to Cornell’s 2010 undergraduate graduation rate report, they had a 92% graduation rate in six years, which is among the highest in the nation, so if you are willing to put in the work, you will be able to graduate! Also, according to US News and World Report, they have an 87% graduation rate in 4 years, which is again among the highest in the nation, so you will most likely be able to graduate on time. Additionally, Cornell has around a 97% freshman retention rate, which (I’m sounding pretty repetitive here) is among the highest in the nation! It’s going to be difficult, but it is definitely doable and, in my opinion, worth it. I am having an amazing time here at Cornell. I am working harder than I ever had to in high school, but I’m learning so much and meeting such amazing people! I love Cornell!