College Comparison
Vanderbilt University vs University of Colorado Boulder: 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
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder, CO
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Vanderbilt | CU Boulder |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 6.3%wins | 83.3% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1560wins | 1230–1420 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 28–33 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,946 | $41,943wins |
| Avg Net Price | $19,040wins | $21,480 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $91,565wins | $69,738 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.7%wins | 75.0% |
| Retention Rate | 96.4%wins | 89.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1wins | 19:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 7,143 | 31,578wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Vanderbilt edges out CU Boulder on 8 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
- ✓Avg Net Price: $19,040
CU Boulder Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $41,943
- ✓Total Enrollment: 31,578
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