The 2008 edition of Kiplinger's "100 Best Values in Private Colleges and Universities" ranks Cornell No. 20, up from No. 23 in 2007. Selection criteria include "outstanding economic value with exceptional education." The results appear in Kiplinger Personal Finance's April issue.

The publication took note of Cornell's announced plans to revamp its financial aid policies. "Families fearing that private education is out of their financial reach should know that there are some outstanding deals to be had," said Fred Frailey, Kiplinger's editor. "Our list showcases a range of schools with strong academics, generous financial-aid practices and, in some cases, a decent price to begin with. You can receive a top-notch education without breaking the bank."

In addition, College Prowler -- a company that publishes guidebooks on top U.S. colleges and universities -- awarded Cornell a grade of A+ in campus dining. Only 2 percent of universities scored so high. College Prowler's letter grades are determined entirely by current students at each school and thus have greater weight with prospective students and their parents, its publisher claims. In its online version http://www.collegeprowler.com, the service ranks Cornell A- for academics, B+ for diversity and B- for athletics.