College Comparison
Vanderbilt University vs Rice 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
Rice University
Houston, TX
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Vanderbilt | Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 6.3%wins | 7.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1560wins | 1500–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–36 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $63,946 | $58,128wins |
| Avg Net Price | $19,040 | $12,640wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $91,565wins | $89,718 |
| Graduation Rate | 92.7% | 95.7%wins |
| Retention Rate | 96.4% | 97.6%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 7,143wins | 4,562 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Rice edges out Vanderbilt on 5 of 9 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
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $91,565
- ✓Total Enrollment: 7,143
Rice Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,128
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,640
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.7%
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.6%
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