Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt University at a Glance
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.
| Full Name | Vanderbilt University |
| Location | Nashville, TN 37240 |
| Type | Private |
| Website | vanderbilt.edu/ |
| Total Enrollment | 14,693 |
| Undergrad Enrollment | 7,284 |
| Female Students | 51.6% |
How Much Do APs Matter at Vanderbilt University?
APs are considered but not decisive at Vanderbilt University. Focus on GPA and overall application strength.
What Vanderbilt University Values in Admissions (CDS Data)
From the Common Data Set — what Vanderbilt University officially says matters in admission decisions.
| 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 |
Best AP Classes to Take for Vanderbilt University
Based on Vanderbilt University's most popular majors and admission priorities, these AP courses are most valuable:
- AP U.S. History
- AP Government
- AP Economics (Macro/Micro)
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Physics C: Mechanics
- AP Physics C: E&M
- AP Chemistry
- AP Biology
- AP Chemistry
- AP Statistics
- AP Computer Science A
- AP Computer Science Principles
- AP Calculus BC
AP Strategy for Vanderbilt University Applicants
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
The most popular fields of study, ranked by the number of degrees awarded.
Student Demographics
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.
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 |
GPA Profile of Admitted Students at Vanderbilt University
High school GPA distribution of enrolled freshmen, from the Common Data Set.
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 |
Financial Aid & Student Debt
Frequently Asked Questions About Vanderbilt University
More About Vanderbilt University
Other Colleges in TN
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS. Vanderbilt University is not affiliated with DeepColleges.