How to Get Into Vanderbilt University
Complete guide to admission requirements, essays, deadlines, and tips for success
Quick Overview
Vanderbilt University is one of the most selective universities in the United States, with an acceptance rate of 6.7%. Founded in 1873, the university is located in Nashville, Tennessee and currently enrolls ~7,000 undergraduates.
Getting into Vanderbilt University requires exceptional academic performance, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and compelling essays that demonstrate your unique perspective and potential for contribution to the university community.
Academic Requirements
GPA Requirements
Most successful applicants have a GPA in this range or higher
Test Scores
Remember: While these statistics provide guidance, Vanderbilt University uses holistic admissions. Strong essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars can significantly impact your application.
Application Essays
Key Essay Prompts:
- "Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job you hold, or responsibilities you have for your family."
Essay Tips: Focus on authenticity and specific examples. Show, don't tell your story. Connect your experiences to your potential contributions at Vanderbilt University.
Application Deadlines
Tips for Success
- Show fit with Vanderbilt's collaborative and spirited culture
- Demonstrate leadership and community involvement
- Highlight both academic excellence and social engagement
- Show interest in Nashville and its opportunities
- Emphasize school spirit and campus involvement
- Connect goals to Vanderbilt's strong alumni network
What Makes a Strong Applicant
Quick Links
Popular Majors
- Economics
- Human & Organizational Development
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Psychology
Notable Alumni
- Al Gore (Former Vice President)
- Amy Grant (Musician)
- Lamar Alexander (Senator)
- Dinah Shore (Entertainer)
- Roy Blunt (Senator)
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Start Your JourneyFrequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Vanderbilt University?
Vanderbilt University has an acceptance rate of 6.7%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States. This means that for every 100 applications, only about 7 are accepted.
What GPA do you need for Vanderbilt University?
Most successful applicants to Vanderbilt University have a 4.0+ (weighted). However, Vanderbilt University uses holistic admissions, meaning they consider all aspects of your application including essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations.
What SAT scores do you need for Vanderbilt University?
The middle 50% SAT range for Vanderbilt University is 1450-1570. The university is currently test-optional, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit test scores.
When are Vanderbilt University application deadlines?
Application deadlines for Vanderbilt University are: Early Decision: November 1, Early Action: November 1, Regular Decision: January 1. Make sure to submit all materials before these dates.
What makes a strong applicant to Vanderbilt University?
Strong Vanderbilt University applicants typically demonstrate academic excellence with social engagement, strong leadership and school spirit, community involvement and service, among other qualities. The university values students who will contribute meaningfully to their community.