College Comparison
Colby 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
Waterville, ME
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
2,412
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
2,412
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
7.1%
5.9%
Average GPA
3.90
3.93
SAT Range
1460–1550
1500–1570
ACT Range
32–34
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$50
Total Applicants
19,187
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,730
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$23,939
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$60,840
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,840
$58,130
Room & Board
$17,890
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
45.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$69,201
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
94.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$80,490
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Colby College is $23,939 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $4,899 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Colby College typically score between 1460-1550 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.
Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Vanderbilt University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Colby 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 Colby College, 45% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $69,201. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Colby College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $80,490, 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.
Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

