Quick Guide

Learn about Vanderbilt's context-based, holistic review process and see the checklist for first-year applicants.

How to apply

aerial campus photo with Kirkland Hall

Innovative undergraduate teaching and learning

Student Athira Sivadas works in Lars Plate lab at Stevenson Science Center.
Professor Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons teachers her art class at Bronson Ingram Studio Arts. (John Russell/Vanderbilt University)

  • Collaborate with your peers

    Vanderbilt brings students together to innovate and create in a supportive learning environment. It’s a school of thought that favors collaboration over competition.

  • Join a community of scholars

    Vanderbilt’s 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio gives students access to faculty and opportunities to conduct research in a lab, out in the field or in a creative setting—no matter their chosen majors.

  • Discover your passions

    With more than 70 majors across four academic schools, Vanderbilt gives you flexibility to study across disciplines.

Committed to affordability

Students on the commons
testStudents enjoy a warm February afternoon on Alumni Lawn.(John Russell/Vanderbilt University)

  • Opportunity Vanderbilt

    Our need-based financial aid program makes a top-tier education available for talented scholars from all social, cultural and economic backgrounds.

  • Merit scholarships

    Vanderbilt offers full-tuition awards, plus stipends for research projects, through our three signature merit-based scholarships.

  • Net price calculator

    Don’t rule out Vanderbilt because of the price. Use the Net Price Calculator tool to estimate how much Vanderbilt will cost for you and your family.

  • 65%

    of undergrads receive some form of financial assistance
  • $76,750

    Average financial aid package for students with demonstrated financial need
  • $65.2

    million in scholarships for 2024–25 first-year students

Belonging, Community and Growth

Move In - Dinner for International Students - Commons Dining Hall. Photos by Joe Howell
Fraternity and Sorority houses put on a Step Show outside Rand Hall during Reunion Weekend. (John Russell/Vanderbilt University)

  • Bringing together the most talented people

    Leadership today demands more than knowledge and expertise—it requires courage, collaboration, and the ability to bridge divides. Vanderbilt is a university for those who want to lead differently—who recognize that diverse ideas, perspectives, and experiences are essential to solving the world’s most pressing challenges, and who also believe those challenges are best conquered by working together.

  • Cultivating a supportive and challenging environment

    At Vanderbilt, fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow is at the core of who we are. We are committed to creating a community with the connections, varied viewpoints, and shared purpose that are necessary to tackle the complexities of an ever-changing world.

  • Belonging, Collaboration and Growth

    We bring together the brightest minds from all backgrounds and perspectives. Every member of our university—whether student, faculty, or staff—brings something unique and essential to the whole. 

    Once you’re a member of this community, we want to make sure you have what you need to thrive and succeed. We understand that thriving looks different for everyone, which is why we provide resources that meet the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual needs of our community.

“Universities such as ours exist because of an unshakable belief in human potential. We must do whatever it takes to create an environment in which all members of our community can thrive and contribute to their full potential.”

Chancellor Diermeier Daniel Diermeier
Chancellor

Balance is a hallmark of life at Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt senior, Mo Hasan, football teammates, and other students pass out meals and water for Nashville community in North Nashville after devastating tornado. Vanderbilt University Photo: Anne Rayner; VU
The Vanderbilt baseball team

  • Get involved outside of the classroom

    With 450+ student organizations, 20+ intramural sports and frequent concerts and guest lectures, students find many ways to recharge and stay inspired.

  • Bring out your inner Commodore

    Students turn out to cheer on our 17 Division I varsity teams, who face some of the county’s fiercest opponents in the legendary SEC.

  • Make a difference in your community

    At Vanderbilt, 59 percent of students participate in volunteer service to engage, to question and to create change locally and globally.

Live in the heart of Nashville

Aerial photo of Downtown Nashville including the Titans Football Stadium. (Photo by Joe Howell)
Downtown Nashville street scenes along Broadway and in The Gulch.(John Russell/Vanderbilt University)

  • Music City

    With more than 20,000 annual live music performances, from hip-hop to honky tonk, Nashville offers live music for every type of music lover.

  • One of the best foodie cities

    Ranked #11 Best Foodie City by U.S. News & World Report in 2020, Nashville is home to a variety of dining options—from up-and-coming restaurants to traditional meat-and-threes.

  • A city with a growing job market

    Named the #2 U.S. City with the Best Job Market by the Wall Street Journal in 2020, Nashville is a center for industries such as health care, finance, publishing, technology and entertainment.

Launch Experience