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College Comparison

Vanderbilt University vs UC Irvine: 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

UC Irvine

Irvine, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricVanderbiltUC Irvine
Acceptance Rate6.3%wins25.6%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1560winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$63,946$45,014wins
Avg Net Price$19,040$12,840wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$91,565wins$80,735
Graduation Rate92.7%wins86.0%
Retention Rate96.4%wins93.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio7:1wins18:1
Total Enrollment7,14329,494wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Vanderbilt edges out UC Irvine on 6 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
  • Graduation Rate: 92.7%

UC Irvine Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,014
  • Avg Net Price: $12,840
  • Total Enrollment: 29,494

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