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Vanderbilt University Admissions 2026: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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Vanderbilt University Admissions
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Vanderbilt University admissions are offered in three decision plans for first-year applicants: Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision.

Below are the tentative Vanderbilt University application deadlines for 2026:

  • Early Decision 2: Jan 1, 2026 (Tentative)
  • Regular Decision: Jan 1, 2026 (Tentative)

Mentioned below are the Vanderbilt MBA admission deadlines for 2026:

  • Round 2: Jan 7, 2026
  • Round 3: Feb 24, 2026
  • Round 4: Apr 1, 2026
  • Round 5: May 15, 2026 

Important: For students applying for fall 2025, 2026, and 2027 entry, SAT or ACT scores are optional.

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Vanderbilt University Admissions
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Vanderbilt University Admissions 2026

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are the most important factors Vanderbilt considers in its holistic admissions process?
A: 

Vanderbilt University uses a holistic approach while evaluating a student application. Hence, numbers are important, but so is the performance of a student beyond class. Mentioned below are the most important factors this university considers: 

  • Academic Excellence: GPA plays an important role in Vanderbilt University admissions. The difficulty level of the subjects that a student had in previous organisations is also considered. 
  • Extracurricular Involvement and Leadership: Applicants who actively participated in various extracurricular and leadership roles are considered over those who didn't. 
  • Essay and Personal Story: Essays are an important part of the Vanderbilt admission process. The admission team of this university tries to understand applicants' motivations, goals, and unique perspectives. 
  • Letters of Recommendation: As part of the Vanderbilt admission process, international students also submit LORs. These references support the applicant's candidature.
Q:   Do I need SAT or ACT for Vanderbilt University courses?
A: 

Vanderbilt University does not require students to submit SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admission for the next admission years, ie, 2026, 2027. Students are free to choose whether to submit the SAT or ACT scores

International students just need to submit the English proficiency test scores, like IELTS/TOEFL, or Duolingo, and they must meet the GPA requirement, coursework requirements, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular activities. 

To reiterate, there is no advantage or disadvantage for an applicant not choosing to submit ACT or SAT scores.  

Q:   What is the typical profile of an admitted student at Vanderbilt University in terms of GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars?
A: 

With an acceptance rate of just 4.6% for the class of 2029, Vanderbilt admissions can be considered highly selective. International students are required to put their best foot forward to be able to get an offer letter from this university. 

The table given below highlights the typical profile of an admitted student -

CategoryTypical Profile of Admitted Student at Vanderbilt University (Class of 2029)
GPAAverage high school GPA: 3.89 on a 4.0 scale
 35.9% had a perfect 4.0 GPA
 53.1% had GPAs between 3.75 - 3.99
Test Scores (if submitted)SAT Middle 50% range: 1510 - 1560
 SAT Reading & Writing: 730 - 770
 SAT Math: 770 - 800
 ACT Composite range: 34 - 35
ExtracurricularsStudents show strong leadership, deep engagement in clubs, sports, arts, or community service
 Vanderbilt looks for demonstrated commitment and impact outside academics
Class Rank90% were in the top tenth of their high school class
 94% were in the top quarter of their class
Acceptance RateVery selective, about 4.6% overall acceptance rate

Vanderbilt University Admission Dates 2026

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is it tough to get into Vanderbilt University?
A: 

Based on the ratio of admissions to applications, Vanderbilt University acceptance rate stands at 4.6%. Since the stats are on the lower end, we can conclude that VU is a very competitive university to get into. However, students must not feel discouraged and fulfill all the admission requirements; competitive grades, standardized test scores, English language requirements & relevant documents in order to boost their chances of getting admitted in Vanderbilt University.

Q:   What is the eligibility criteria for admission at Vanderbilt University?
A: 

International students must meet the Vanderbilt University eligibility requirements to apply to this university. For the Vanderbilt Class of 2029,  the average high school GPA stood at 3.89 on a 4.0 scale; meanwhile, 35.9% students had a perfect 4.0 GPA, making Vanderbilt admissions very tough.

Given below is the typical profile at this university: 

CategoryTypical Profile of Admitted Student at Vanderbilt University (Class of 2029)
GPAAverage high school GPA: 3.89 on a 4.0 scale
 35.9% had a perfect 4.0 GPA
 53.1% had GPAs between 3.75 - 3.99
Test Scores (if submitted)SAT Middle 50% range: 1510 - 1560
 SAT Reading & Writing: 730 - 770
 SAT Math: 770 - 800
 ACT Composite range: 34 - 35
ExtracurricularsStudents show strong leadership, deep engagement in clubs, sports, arts, or community service
 Vanderbilt looks for demonstrated commitment and impact outside academics
Class Rank90% were in the top tenth of their high school class
 94% were in the top quarter of their class
Acceptance RateVery selective, about 5.68% overall acceptance rate

Vanderbilt University Admission Requirements 2026

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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   What are Vanderbilt University's admission requirements for international students?
A: 

To secure an admission in Vanderbilt University, all international students are required to fulfill certain admission requirements. Look at the list of admission requirements at Vanderbilt -

  • Completed online application;
  • Official academic transcripts from all the previous institutions attended;
  • Bachelor's degree in relevant field;
  • Grades: Minimum GPA of 3.2;
  • Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/DET);
  • GRE/GMAT score(s); and
  • SAT/ACT score(s).
Q:   Which documents does Vanderbilt University require during the time of applications?
A: 

Prospective international undergraduate students of Vanderbilt University can apply either through Common Application or Coalition Application and graduate students can apply through the Graduate Applications. VU lets its applicants choose from various intake opportunities as it admits students through Early Decision I, Early Decision II and Regular Decision. While applying to VU, candidates are required to submit the following documents:

  • Official academic transcripts from all the previous institutions attended;
  • Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/DET);
  • SAT/ACT score (s);
  • Resume/CV;
  • Personal statement;
  • Letter of recommendation (s);
  • Portfolio;
  • Student visa; and
  • Copy of passport.

Vanderbilt University MS Admissions 2026

28 courses 10 months - 2 years
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19.6L - 66.8L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Accepting Exams: TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, IELTS, GRE
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Commonly asked questions
On MS Admissions
Q:   What all MS courses are offered at Vanderbilt University?
A: 

International students can choose from a variety of MS courses available at Vanderbilt University. Some of the most popular majors include Electrical Engineering, Marketing, Applied Behavior Analysis, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, International Education Policy & Management, MACC Assurance, Leadership & Organizational Performance, Economics, Biomedical Informatics, etc. 

Mentioned are the Vanderbilt University MS admission requirements:

  • Four-year Bachelor's Degree
  • Demonstrated Programming Skills
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Written statements
  • GRE scores
  • Online application with a Vanderbilt application fee of USD 95 (8.15 K)

Also check: MS in the USA: Top Universities, Courses, Eligibility, Job Prospects

 (USD 1 = INR 89.26)

How to get into Vanderbilt University in 2026?

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process
Q:   What are Vanderbilt University's English language requirements?
A: 

Vanderbilt University's admission requirements for international students comprise of English language exam score as a major entry requirement. VU accepts all the major English proficiency exam and students can refer to the table below for the minimum score requirements:

English Proficiency ExamMinimum Score Requirements
IELTS7.0 & Above
TOEFL iBT88.0 - 100.0
PTE70 & Above
Duolingo English Test130 & Above
Q:   How can I apply to Vanderbilt University?
A: 

Prospective international UG students of Vanderbilt University can apply either through Common Application or Coalition Application and graduate students can apply through the Graduate Applications. VU lets its applicants choose from various intake opportunities as it admits students through Early Decision I, Early Decision II and Regular Decision. Students can check out the table below for Vanderbilt University's application deadlines 2026 -

Intake TypeApplication Deadline
Early Decision IIJan 1, 2026
Regular DecisionJan 1, 2026

 

Vanderbilt University Acceptance Rate 2026

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Commonly asked questions
On Admission
Q:   What is Vanderbilt University's acceptance rate?
A: 

In the year 2025, Vanderbilt University received 50,084 total applications from more than 100 countries in the world. Out of these applications, only 2,304 applicants were offered admission at this university resulting in a Vanderbilt University acceptance rate of 4.6% meaning out of every 100 applications, onlyto 5 students were given an opportunity to study here. Really low acceptance rate makes it a highly selective university.

Vanderbilt University FAQs 2026

Q:   Which programs is Vanderbilt University known for?
A: 

Vanderbilt University's courses comprise of 70 undergraduate majors and a vast range of graduate as well as professional degree programs, through its 10 academic schools and colleges, namely: College of Arts and Science, Blair School of Music, Divinity School, School of Engineering, Graduate School, Law School, School of Medicine, School of Nursing, Owen Graduate School of Management and Peabody College. According to the data collected from US News & World Report, Vanderbilt University is known for the following courses:

  • Social Sciences;
  • Economics;
  • Multi Interdisciplinary Studies;
  • Computer Science; and
  • Mathematics.
Q:   How much does it cost to study medicine in Vanderbilt University?
A: 

Vanderbilt University is one of the best universities in USA and is globally renowned for its School of Medicine as well as School of Nursing. When it comes to rankings, Vanderbilt University has been ranked #5 in Best Medical Schools: Research and #82 in Best Medical Schools: Primary Care by the prestigious ranking body US News & World Report. Listed below is the breakdown of Vanderbilt University's School of Medicine's cost of attendance:

Particulars1st Year
Students
(12 months)
2nd Year
Students
(11 months)
3rd Year
Students
(12 months)
4th Year
Students
(10 months)
Direct Costs Paid to Vanderbilt    
Tuition$66,828$66,828$66,828$66,828
Student Services Fee$714$714$714$714
Student Health Fee$888$888$888$888
Indirect Costs    
Books / Supplies$500$500$500$500
Housing$20,749$19,019$20,749$17,290
Food$9,492$8,701$9,492$7,910
Personal Total$7,615$6,976$7,615$6,342
Transportation$2,040$1,870$2,040$1,700
Laptop Allowance$1,000   
Loan Fees$912$912$912$912
STEP Fees $660$660 
Total Cost of Attendance$110,838$107,068$110,398$109,142
Q:   Does Vanderbilt University offer scholarships for international students?
A: 

Yes, Vanderbilt University offers generous scholarships for international students. However, only undergraduates get to avail these scholarship benefits, since the University of Vanderbilt does not offer any scholarships for graduate overseas applicants. At Vanderbilt, undergraduates get to choose from need-based as well as merit-based scholarships. Also, candidates must submit the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile or the ISFAA (International Student Financial Aid Application) in order to apply for need-based scholarships and Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship for merit-based scholarships. Some of the most popular Vanderbilt University scholarships for international students are:

  • Irene and Thomas Harrington International Scholarship (Need-based): It provides financial assistance to international students enrolled full time in any of the Vanderbilt's four undergraduate schools. Preference is given to students from France, with second preference to students from the European Union.
  • Ingram Scholarship Program (Merit-based)
  • Chancellor's Scholarship (Merit-based)
Q:   What is Vanderbilt University's cost of attendance?
A: 

Vanderbilt University's 334 acre campus provides on-campus housing facilities to all their students through their 29 residence halls and apartments. Listed below is the breakdown of Vanderbilt University's cost of attendance for undergraduates:

ParticularsFull
Year
Per
Semester
Housing$12,720.00$6,360.00
On-Campus Meal Plans  
   First Year Student (21 meals/week)$7,142.00$3,571.00
   Second and Third Year Student (19 meals/week) $7,070.00$3,535.00
   Fourth Year Student (14 meals/week) $6,294.00$3,147.00
   All-Access Plan (Unlimited meals/week)$7,462.00$3,731.00
Student Health Insurance  
   Domestic$2,245.00 
   International $3,491.00 
Q:   When can I apply for scholarships at Vanderbilt University?
A: 

Vanderbilt University's scholarships for international students includes generous need-based as well as merit-based scholarships for undergraduate students. At VU, candidates must submit the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile or the ISFAA (International Student Financial Aid Application) in order to apply for need-based scholarships. In order to apply for merit-based scholarships, Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship application is required.

Students are advised to refer to the tables below for Vanderbilt University's scholarship deadlines, according to the type of scholarship:

1) Need-based Scholarships:

Intake TypeScholarship Application Deadline
Early Decision IEarly-November, 2023
Early Decision IIEarly-January, 2024
Regular DecisionEarly-February, 2024

2) Merit-based Scholarships:

Intake TypeScholarship Application DeadlineCCS Profile SubmissionFAFSA Submission
Early Decision IDecember 1, 2023November 2, 2024February 1, 2024
Early Decision IIDecember 1, 2023January 4, 2024February 1, 2024
Regular DecisionDecember 1, 2023February 1, 2024February 1, 2024
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Answered 3 weeks ago

CWRU is home to 6,534 UG students and 5,864 PG students, thus accounting for a total of 12,398 student strength as per the data provided by official sources. Most graduates went for Biomedical Sciences as their subject and most professionals went for Medicine programs

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Ridhi

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Answered 6 days ago

Hi.

Yes,   getting into Vanderbilt University (in Nashville, USA) is really hard. Whether you find it “hard” depends on how strong your credentials are — but overall, compared to most universities, Vanderbilt is among the most selective in the U.S. Here's a breakdown of why and what “hard” means in p

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heena agrawal

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Answered 3 months ago

The MS in Data Science program is one of the most popular Vanderbilt courses, which lasts for 2 years. This course requires 36 credits and is focused on intensive Data Science modules. International students are typically required to meet GPA, standardized test scores, and English language proficien

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Rachit Arora

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 months ago

Vanderbilt MBA course duration is 2 years. Furthermore, the university ranks at #20 in the Best MBA programs as per Fortune 2025. As per U.S. News & World Report, Vanderbilt University ranks at #18 for the Best Business Schools category in 2025. It also ranks at #20 in Bloomberg Best B-schools 2024-

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Rupali Singh

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

Vanderbilt University acceptance rate is around 6%, making it a very selective university to get into. The university attracts applicants from around the world because of its stellar academics, beautiful campus, and location in Nashville. Due to the university's selectivity, it is quite difficult to

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Anya Aggarwal

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Loveleen is a seasoned content writer with 4+ years of experience, currently writing for Shiksha. When he is not writing and helping students, he can be found at the movies, reading fiction, and learning a new language.

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