2026 College Rankings

Best Colleges – Best Research Colleges in New York

About

Top research colleges offer exceptional academic opportunities, allowing students and faculty to participate in practical, innovative research that drives progress in the sciences. What is a Research College? Research universities—public or private—provide hands-on research experiences and award degrees at all levels. Research colleges typically secure federal grants, boast distinguished faculty, and feature strong academic programs, positioning them as leaders in education and innovation.

Methodology

Each of these rankings is based on an analysis of data about the school’s selectivity, financial health, graduation rates, student success, and more. We’ve outlined our full methodology here.

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Rank	Institution	Undergraduates	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	Columbia University in the City of New York	9157	3.86	1,510 – 1,590	20869	88535	#1 Best Colleges – Best Research Colleges in New York Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY Columbia University was founded in 1754, making it the oldest institution of higher education in the state. A doctoral/research university, some top majors for students include Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other, and Computer Science....Read more Undergraduates 9,157 Acceptance Rate 3.9% SAT Score 1,510 – 1,590 Avg. Net Price $20,869 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $88,535
2	Cornell University	16128	8.41	1,490 – 1,570	26455	87830	#2 Best Colleges – Best Research Colleges in New York Cornell University Ithaca, NY Cornell University is made up of seven undergraduate colleges and seven graduate divisions. Some famous alumni include Christopher Reeve, Bill Nye, E.B. White, and Anthony Fauci. 98% of students stay on after the first year, with 94% graduating within six years. Computer Science is the most popular major. Undergraduates 16,128 Acceptance Rate 8.4% SAT Score 1,490 – 1,570 Avg. Net Price $26,455 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $87,830