College Comparison
Southern Methodist 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
Dallas, TX
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
12,116
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
7,285
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
63.4%
5.9%
Average GPA
3.66
3.93
SAT Range
1340–1490
1500–1570
ACT Range
30–34
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$60
$50
Total Applicants
15,245
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$74,076
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$41,778
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$55,012
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$55,012
$58,130
Room & Board
$19,064
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
67.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$37,520
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
82.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
75.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
91.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$78,354
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Southern Methodist University is $41,778 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $22,738 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Southern Methodist University typically score between 1340-1490 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.
Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Vanderbilt University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Southern Methodist University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $37,520. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Southern Methodist University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $78,354, 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.
Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

