College Comparison
Harvard University vs Vanderbilt University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
School
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | Vanderbilt |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 6.3% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580 | 1510–1560wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $63,946 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816wins | $19,040 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817wins | $91,565 |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 92.7% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 96.4% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1 | 7:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755wins | 7,143 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out Vanderbilt on 7 of 8 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Harvard Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.5%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,816
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $101,817
Vanderbilt Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1560
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