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Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN

Travel:

6-6.5 hours by car or 1.5 hour flight and 15 minute drive to campus

Local Airport:

Nashville International Airport (BNA)

Planning Your Visit
Places to Stay Near Campus

  • Loews Vanderbilt Hotel

  • Graduate Nashville

  • Hutton Hotel

Places to Eat

  • Hattie B’s Hot Chicken 

  • The Pancake Pantry 

  • BrickTop’s

Other Schools You Could Add to Your Trip:

  • Belmont University (Nashville) – ~10 min

  • University of Tennessee, Knoxville – ~2 hr 45 min

  • University of Memphis – ~3 hr

College Snapshot

Located in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University is a top-ranked private research university that balances academic rigor with a collaborative, inclusive culture. Known for its world-class programs in engineering, education, business, and the liberal arts, Vanderbilt offers students access to a vibrant city, strong undergraduate research opportunities, and a true residential college experience.



📊 Admissions Overview

  • Freshman Applicants (2025): 45,409

  • Acceptance Rate: 5.9%

  • Early Decision Applicants: 5,363 | Admitted: 825

  • Admission Difficulty: Most Difficult

  • Test Policy: Test-optional (SAT/ACT considered if submitted)


🎓 Who Gets In

  • Class Rank: 99% of freshmen ranked in the top half of their HS class; 90% in the top 10%.

  • GPA Profile:
    36% earned a 4.0 GPA
    53% earned 3.75–3.99
    7% earned 3.50–3.74
    Admitted students demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and rigorous coursework.

  • Test Scores (optional):
    Middle 50% SAT:     1510–1560
    Middle 50% ACT: 33–35 (98% scored 30+)
    Nearly all enrolled students scored above 1400 SAT or 30 ACT.


📝 What Matters in Admissions

  • Considered: Academic GPA, rigor of coursework, class rank, standardized test scores, recommendations, extracurricular activities, essay, character/personal qualities, volunteer work, work experience, talent/ability, first-generation status, alumni relation, and geographic residence

  • Not Considered: Religious affiliation

  • Context: Vanderbilt takes a holistic approach, emphasizing intellectual curiosity, personal impact, and engagement beyond the classroom.

College Snapshot
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