Officially, Cornell does not have a mascot. However, generations of Cornellians have come to know and love the Big Red Bear as Cornell’s unofficial mascot. Early in the school’s athletic history, a bear took over as its most recognizable symbol. Named “Touchdown,” the first live Cornell bear appeared in 1915 during Cornell's undefeated and national championship football season. Enthusiastic Big Red Bear-loving undergraduates don the fuzzy uniform and perform at various official Cornell celebrations and varsity athletic events, including at all football games.
Cornell University’s colors are carnelian red and white. Cornell's first association with its signature colors was the red felt banner bearing hand-cut white letters spelling “Cornell University" used during the October 7, 1868 inauguration of the university and its first president, Andrew Dickson White. The nickname "Big Red" for Cornell teams originated in 1905.
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Students with demonstrated financial need will receive a $4,000/year scholarship, which increases total grant aid and reduces self-help aid such as loans, summer savings, or work. Students will also have access to a support account of $3,500 to assist with program-related initiatives, along with additional funding to offset costs associated with activities that more broadly align with The Cornell Commitment’s values of service, leadership, and research. Each program also has its own unique benefits and perks.
Several of the academic programs at Cornell offer students the opportunity to participate in an Honors Program and obtain an honors distinction if certain requirements are met. To learn more about the college- or school-specific Honors Programs that may be available, please explore the website for the undergraduate college or school of interest.
