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College Comparison

Stanford University vs Vanderbilt University

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

Stanford University
#3
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Private
Vanderbilt University
#19
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Stanford, CA

Nashville, TN

Total Enrollment

18,625

13,575

Undergrad Enrollment

7,904

7,221

Student-Faculty Ratio

6:1

8:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

3.6%

5.9%

Average GPA

3.96

3.93

SAT Range

1510–1580

1500–1570

ACT Range

34–35

34–35

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$90

$50

Total Applicants

57,326

45,409


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$79,018

$80,184

Avg Net Price

$26,000

$19,040

Tuition (In-State)

$57,693

$58,130

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$57,693

$58,130

Room & Board

$21,325

$22,054

% Receiving Aid

61.0%

67.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$62,755

$64,404


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

96.0%

94.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

78.0%

90.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

96.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$124,080

$91,565

More Comparisons
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Stanford is in Stanford, CA

Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN

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Frequently Asked Questions

Stanford University has an acceptance rate of 4%, while Vanderbilt University has an acceptance rate of 6%. This means Stanford University is more selective than Vanderbilt University.

The average net price at Stanford University is $26,000 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $6,960 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Stanford 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.

Stanford University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Stanford University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Stanford University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Vanderbilt University has a ratio of 8:1. Stanford University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.

At Stanford University, 61% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $62,755. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.

The median earnings for Stanford University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $124,080, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt University graduates. Graduates from Stanford University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.

Stanford University is located in Stanford, CA in a suburb: large setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.