Average SAT & ACT Scores for Vanderbilt University
Test
25th Percentile
75th Percentile
Midpoint
SAT Reading
740
770
755
SAT Math
770
790
780
SAT Total
1510
1560
1535
ACT Composite
34
35
34
Admissions Funnel
Applications Received
45,313
Students Admitted
2,844
Students Enrolled
1,622
Yield Rate
57.0%
Vanderbilt University Rankings
Ranking
2025
Year
US News National Universities
#18
2025
QS World University Rankings
#195
2025
Vanderbilt University Overview
Vanderbilt University is a private university in Nashville, TN with 14,693 students. With a 6.3% acceptance rate, it ranks among the most selective institutions in the country. The most popular majors are Social Sciences, Multidisciplinary, and Engineering. Graduates earn a median of $91,565 ten years after enrollment.
Is Vanderbilt University a Reach, Match, or Safety?
With an acceptance rate of 6.3%, Vanderbilt University is a Reach for most applicants. You'll need a standout application — strong GPA, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays — to have realistic odds here.
Your Profile
Vanderbilt University Is...
What to Do
Above-average GPA + strong application
Match
Apply — worth the effort
Average GPA, some strengths
Reach
Apply, but have 2-3 backup schools
Below-average GPA
Hard Reach
Consider similar schools with higher acceptance rates
Vanderbilt University True Cost by Family Income
Sticker price doesn't tell the full story at Vanderbilt. Families earning $30-48k pay around $1,876 per year after aid, while those in the $110k+ bracket pay about $45,145. 19% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating Vanderbilt enrolls a meaningful share of lower-income students. The median debt of $14,000 is very manageable relative to the $73,909 median salary six years out.
Family Income
Annual Net Price
4-Year Total
$0-30k
$3,414
$13,656
$30-48k
$1,876
$7,504
$48-75k
$4,498
$17,992
$75-110k
$12,153
$48,612
$110k+
$45,145
$180,580
Cost Breakdown
Room & Board
$21,054
Total Cost of Attendance
$89,590
Popular Majors at Vanderbilt University
Percentage of degrees awarded by field.
Social Sciences
29.6%
Multidisciplinary
13.5%
Engineering
8.7%
Biological Sciences
8.1%
Computer Science
7.6%
Mathematics/Statistics
6.1%
Psychology
5.7%
Visual/Performing Arts
3.8%
Education
2.3%
Foreign Languages
2.2%
Physical Sciences
2.0%
History
2.0%
English/Literature
2.0%
Student Demographics
White
40.4%
Black/African American
10.6%
Hispanic/Latino
11.0%
Asian
17.5%
International
10.2%
How to Get Into Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt is a Reach school for nearly all applicants. Competitive applicants typically score 1535+ on the SAT. Beyond grades and scores, Vanderbilt wants to see intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a clear sense of purpose in your application. Have 2-3 realistic backup schools — even perfect-on-paper students get denied here.
1535
Target SAT Score
34
Target ACT Score
6.3%
Acceptance Rate
45,313
Total Applicants
What Vanderbilt University Values Most in Applicants
Admission factor importance from the Common Data Set — what the school officially says matters.
Factor
Importance
Academic Gpa
Very Important
Rigor Of Secondary School Record
Very Important
Class Rank
Considered
Standardized Test Scores
Considered
Application Essay
Very Important
Recommendation
Very Important
Extracurricular Activities
Very Important
Talent Ability
Important
Character Personal Qualities
Very Important
First Generation
Considered
Alumni Relation
Considered
Interview
Important
Work Experience
Considered
Volunteer Work
Considered
Vanderbilt University Application Deadlines & Requirements
Key dates for the Vanderbilt University ED I/II admission cycle. Mark these on your calendar — missing a deadline means waiting another year.
Deadline
Date
Early Decision
Nov 1
Early Decision II
Jan 1
Regular Decision
Jan 1
Financial Aid (FAFSA/CSS)
Feb 15
Early Decision: Vanderbilt University offers binding Early Decision. If accepted, you must enroll and withdraw all other applications. Only apply ED if Vanderbilt University is your clear first choice.
Financial Aid & Student Debt
19.0%
Pell Grant Recipients
Students from low-income families
$14,000
Median Debt at Graduation
Federal loans only
$73,909
Median Earnings (6yr)
6 years after enrollment
Frequently Asked Questions About Vanderbilt University
What is Vanderbilt's acceptance rate?
Vanderbilt has an acceptance rate of 6.3%, making it extremely selective. This rate reflects freshman applicants for the most recent admissions cycle.
What SAT score do I need for Vanderbilt?
The middle 50% SAT range at Vanderbilt is 1510-1560. For the ACT, the middle 50% range is 34-35. Scoring above the 75th percentile puts you in a strong position, but scores alone don't determine admission.
What are the most popular majors at Vanderbilt?
The most popular majors at Vanderbilt by degrees awarded are: Social Sciences (29.6%), Multidisciplinary (13.5%), Engineering (8.7%), Biological Sciences (8.1%), Computer Science (7.6%). These percentages reflect undergraduate degrees conferred in the most recent reporting year.
How much do Vanderbilt graduates earn?
Vanderbilt graduates earn a median salary of $91,565 ten years after enrollment, based on federal data. Actual earnings vary significantly by major — STEM and business graduates typically earn more, while arts and education graduates earn less.
Is Vanderbilt worth the cost?
With median earnings of $91,565 (10yr post-enrollment) and median debt of $14,000, The earning potential strongly outweighs the typical debt, making Vanderbilt a solid investment for most students. Always compare the net price (after aid) to expected earnings in your intended field.
Can I transfer to Vanderbilt?
Vanderbilt accepts transfer students, though the process is highly selective. Transfer applicants typically need a strong college GPA (3.5+), relevant coursework, and compelling reasons for transferring. The transfer acceptance rate is generally lower than freshman admission at selective schools.
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