College Comparison
Harvard University 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
Cambridge, MA
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
30,259
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
8,844
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
7:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
3.6%
5.9%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1510–1580
1500–1570
ACT Range
34–36
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$50
Total Applicants
54,008
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$73,849
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$16,816
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$52,659
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$52,659
$58,130
Room & Board
$21,190
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
56.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,015
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$101,817
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Harvard is in Cambridge, MA
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Harvard University is $16,816 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Harvard University is $2,224 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Harvard University typically score between 1510-1580 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.
Harvard University has a graduation rate of 97%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Harvard University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Harvard University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, while Vanderbilt University has a ratio of 8:1. Harvard University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Harvard University, 56% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,015. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Harvard University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $101,817, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt University graduates. Graduates from Harvard University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

