Quick Summary
Based in Nashville, United States, Vanderbilt University is a private research university with roots dating back to 1873. Ranked #275 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 13796 students including 15% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Education and Training, Medicine, Nursing, it maintains an acceptance rate of 5.6%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Combines a top-tier research environment with the social culture of the SEC. Known for 'happy students' and its location in the vibrant city of Nashville.
Subject Strengths
Education and TrainingMedicineNursingLawPsychologyPolitical Science
Founded1873
TypePrivate Research University
Total Students13796
Intl Students15%
Faculty Ratio7:1
CampusUrban / National Arboretum
Campus Size330 acres
Affiliated HospitalsVanderbilt University Medical Center,Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt
AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#275
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#52
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#65
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate,Graduate,Professional,Doctoral
Programs
Biological Sciences,Chemistry,Economics,Education,Engineering,History,Physics,Religion
PhD Programs
M.S. in Computer Science (Online),M.Ed. in School Counseling,Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership and Learning in Organizations,M.S. in Nursing (Hybrid)
Online Programs
Vanderbilt Institute for Public Policy Studies,Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center,The Wond'ry Innovation Center,Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate5.6%
IELTS7.0
TOEFL100
Min GPA3.8 (Average incoming is 3.9+)
GREOptional for many programs (Check specific graduate school)
GMATRequired for Owen Graduate School of Management (avg 680-720)
SAT1500-1560 (Test-optional for 2025 cycle)
ACT34-35 (Test-optional for 2025 cycle)
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 1 (Regular Decision)
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Vanderbilt looks for 'citizen-scholars' who demonstrate high academic achievement and deep engagement in extracurricular activities. Highlighting specific fit for the 'Opportunity Vanderbilt' culture is recommended.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$63,946/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$24,000/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$58,000/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$50
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$92,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableCornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship,Ingram Scholars Program,Chancellor's Scholars
Avg Scholarship$56,000
Financial AidNeed-blind for US citizens; Opportunity Vanderbilt replaces all loans with grants/scholarships.
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate,Graduate,Professional,Doctoral programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Economics | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Computer Science | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Human and Organizational Development | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Psychology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Social Sciences | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Engineering | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$81,000
Average Salary After Graduation
92%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with Nashville's healthcare and music industries, plus global corporate networks.
Industry Connections
HCA HealthcareAmazonDeloitteGoogleGoldman Sachs
Notable Alumni
Al Gore,James Patterson,Lamar Alexander,Muhammad Yunus,Greg Abbott
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
Yes (Guaranteed for 4 years for undergraduates)
Sports Facilities
Vanderbilt Stadium,Memorial Gymnasium,Student Recreation and Wellness Center
Student Clubs
Over 475 student organizations
Library Resources
Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries (consisting of 9 divisional libraries)
Exchange Programs
Over 120 study abroad programs in 40 countries
Summer Programs
Vanderbilt Summer Academy, Undergraduate Clinical Research Internship Program