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Vanderbilt University vs Wellesley College

46 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

20
Vanderbilt Wins
9
Tied / N/A
17
Wellesley Wins

Overview

Private nonprofit
Type
Private nonprofit
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Southeast
Region
New England
7,208
Enrollment
2,300
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

6%
Acceptance Rate
14%
1549
SAT Average
1520
35
ACT Midpoint
33
1500-1570
SAT Range
1460-1560

Cost & Financial Aid

$67,498
In-State Tuition
$67,176
$67,498
Out-of-State Tuition
$67,176
$15,846
Average Net Price
$25,496
$3,414
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$2,546
$1,876
Net Price ($30-48K)
$2,836
$4,498
Net Price ($48-75K)
$6,587
$45,145
Net Price ($110K+)
$54,188
20%
Pell Grant Rate
21%
10%
Federal Loan Rate
16%

Academics

93%
Graduation Rate
91%
96%
Retention Rate
97%
85%
Full-Time Faculty
80%
$16,361
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$14,120
12%
First-Gen Students
17%

Student Body

53%
Female
N/A
39%
White
30%
11%
Hispanic
14%
9%
Black
8%
19%
Asian
26%
0.78
Diversity Index
0.79

Outcomes

$73,909
Earnings (6yr)
$65,961
$84,542
Earnings (8yr)
$72,216
$91,565
Earnings (10yr)
$84,803
$14,000
Median Debt
$10,000
0.15x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.12x
82%
Earning Above HS
76%

Social Mobility (Chetty)

147.18%
Mobility Rate
240.83%
5929.6%
Success Rate (bottom 20%)
4361.1%
248.2%
From Bottom 20%
552.2%
$197,900
Parent Median Income
$142,500

Social Capital

1.82
Economic Connectedness
1.84
0.01
Friending Bias
-0.00
8.3%
Volunteering Rate
16.7%

Research (Times HE)

#51
World Rank
N/A
64.9
Teaching Score
N/A
59.5
Research Score
N/A
78.1
Citations Score
N/A

The Overviews

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · Private nonprofit

6% accept 93% grad $91,565 earnings $15,846 net

With an acceptance rate of just 6%, Vanderbilt University attracts motivated students who are ready to dive into rigorous programs. Located in Nashville, this school is particularly appealing to those interested in Social Sciences, Engineering, Computer Science, Biology, and Psychology. The small enrollment of about 7,200 means students often benefit from smaller class sizes, fostering a close-knit academic community where collaboration thrives.

Looking ahead to life after graduation, Vanderbilt graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $91,565 within ten years. This impressive figure reflects the university's strong emphasis on career readiness and networking opportunities. While the data on mobility isn't available, the high graduation rate of 93% speaks to the support students receive, which can help them move into successful careers.

When it comes to the financial aspect, students can expect a net price of around $15,846 after aid, which is quite manageable given the potential earnings. With a median debt of $14,000, graduates usually leave with a reasonable financial burden. Students who thrive here are often those who are driven, engaged, and ready to leverage the university's resources to achieve their goals.

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · Private nonprofit

14% accept 91% grad $84,803 earnings $25,496 net

Wellesley College is a great fit for students who are focused on a strong academic experience and personal growth. With an acceptance rate of just 14%, this school attracts motivated individuals who are passionate about subjects like Social Sciences, Biology, and Computer Science. The environment here is tailored for those who thrive in a rigorous, supportive setting, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about their studies.

After graduation, Wellesley alumni see impressive outcomes, with a median earnings figure of $84,803 after ten years. This reflects the value of a Wellesley education in the job market. While the cost of attendance can be a concern, the school’s commitment to affordability helps many students manage their financial futures. The relatively low median debt of $10,000 for graduates suggests that most leave with manageable financial obligations.

When it comes to the practicalities, the net price after aid sits at $25,496, which is reasonable for a private institution. Students who tend to thrive here are often those who appreciate a close-knit community and seek a challenging academic environment. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that Wellesley supports its students well, helping them not just to finish their degrees, but to succeed afterward.

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