Why is it so hard to get into Vanderbilt University?
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1 Answer
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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 take admission here. So, students thinking to take admission at this university must have a great academic record and meet all the entry requirements. For admission to UG courses, high school education is required. A Bachelor's degree is required for admission to Graduate courses. GRE / GMAT score may also be required as per the courses.&nb
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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:
| Category | Typical Profile of Admitted Student at Vanderbilt University (Class of 2029) |
|---|---|
| GPA | Average 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 | |
| Extracurriculars | Students show strong leadership, deep engagement in clubs, sports, arts, or community service |
| Vanderbilt looks for demonstrated commitment and impact outside academics | |
| Class Rank | 90% were in the top tenth of their high school class |
| 94% were in the top quarter of their class | |
| Acceptance Rate | Very selective, about 5.68% overall acceptance rate |
With an acceptance rate standing at just 5.68% for the class of 2025, 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:
| Category | Typical Profile of Admitted Student at Vanderbilt University (Class of 2029) |
|---|---|
| GPA | Average 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 | |
| Extracurriculars | Students show strong leadership, deep engagement in clubs, sports, arts, or community service |
| Vanderbilt looks for demonstrated commitment and impact outside academics | |
| Class Rank | 90% were in the top tenth of their high school class |
| 94% were in the top quarter of their class | |
| Acceptance Rate | Very selective, about 4.6% overall acceptance rate |
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.
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: Ess
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 proficiency requirements.
The table below sheds light on the MS in Data Science eligibility requirements for international students:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | Four-year bachelor's degree or international equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL iBT: Minimum score 100 (no sub-score below 21) or IELTS: Minimum 7.0 (no sub-score below 6.5) or Duolingo: Minimum 130 |
| Transcripts | Official and unofficial transcripts required; WES verification mandatory for international applicants |
| Letters of Recommendation | Three letters of recommendation required |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Up to 3 pages covering interest in data science, programming experience, and any extenuating circumstances |
| Resume/CV | Highlight programming skills, academic achievements, and professional experience |
| Standardized Tests | GRE or GMAT optional |
| Application Deadlines | Rolling admissions with a final deadline of May 15 annually |
| Application Fee | No application fee for this program |
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