College Comparison
Stanford 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
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
Compare Stanford with...
View Stanford profile →
Compare Vanderbilt with...
View Vanderbilt profile →
Explore by Location
Stanford is in Stanford, CA
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
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.

