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Southern Methodist University vs Vanderbilt University

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Southern Methodist University
#59
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Private
Vanderbilt University
#19
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Private
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

More Comparisons
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Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX

Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN

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Frequently Asked Questions

Southern Methodist University has an acceptance rate of 63%, while Vanderbilt University has an acceptance rate of 6%. This means Vanderbilt University is more selective than Southern Methodist University.

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.