College Comparison
University of Pennsylvania 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
Philadelphia, PA
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
29,109
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
11,478
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
8:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
5.4%
5.9%
Average GPA
3.96
3.93
SAT Range
1510–1570
1500–1570
ACT Range
34–36
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$50
Total Applicants
65,226
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$75,386
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$31,229
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$56,212
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$56,212
$58,130
Room & Board
$19,174
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
51.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$65,458
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
99.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$111,371
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Pennsylvania is in Philadelphia, PA
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Penn is $31,229 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $12,189 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Penn typically score between 1510-1570 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.
Penn has a graduation rate of 96%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. Penn has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Penn has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1, 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 Penn, 51% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $65,458. At Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Penn graduates 10 years after enrollment is $111,371, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt University graduates. Graduates from Penn tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Penn is located in Philadelphia, PA in a city: large setting. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

