College Comparison
Vanderbilt University vs Cornell 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
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
School
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Vanderbilt | Cornell |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 6.3%wins | 8.2% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1560wins | 1480–1560 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,946wins | $66,014 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,040wins | $32,337 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $91,565 | $104,043wins |
| Graduation Rate | 92.7% | 95.1%wins |
| Retention Rate | 96.4% | 97.8%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1wins | 9:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,143 | 15,935wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Vanderbilt edges out Cornell on 6 of 10 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.
Vanderbilt Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 6.3%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1560
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,946
Cornell Strengths
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $104,043
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.1%
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.8%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 15,935
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.