College Comparison
Grinnell 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
Grinnell, IA
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
1,788
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
1,788
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
14.5%
5.9%
Average GPA
3.89
3.93
SAT Range
1410–1540
1500–1570
ACT Range
31–34
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$0
$50
Total Applicants
9,758
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,830
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$15,608
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$60,988
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,988
$58,130
Room & Board
$16,842
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
94.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$49,077
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,830
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Grinnell College is $15,608 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Grinnell College is $3,432 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Grinnell College typically score between 1410-1540 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.
Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Vanderbilt University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Grinnell 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 Grinnell College, 94% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $49,077. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Grinnell College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,830, 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.
Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

