College Comparison
Bowdoin College vs Vanderbilt University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Brunswick, ME
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
1,881
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
1,881
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
5.9%
Average GPA
3.93
3.93
SAT Range
1470–1550
1500–1570
ACT Range
33–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$50
Total Applicants
13,265
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,440
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$20,786
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$60,952
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,952
$58,130
Room & Board
$18,488
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
55.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$62,872
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$82,735
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bowdoin College is $20,786 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $1,746 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bowdoin College typically score between 1470-1550 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Vanderbilt University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Bowdoin College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Vanderbilt University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bowdoin College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Vanderbilt University has a ratio of 8:1. Vanderbilt University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,872. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Bowdoin College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $82,735, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt University graduates. Graduates from Vanderbilt University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

