Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
UMN
$197,088
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
Vanderbilt
$327,464
4-year total (private)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: UMN = $136,688 | Vanderbilt = $138,664. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
UMN Top Majors
PsychologyBiologyEngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessVanderbilt Top Majors
EconomicsEngineeringMedicine/HealthComputer ScienceEducation
Need Help Choosing Between UMN & Vanderbilt?
Get free personalized guidance from college admissions experts. Application strategy, essay reviews, and financial aid help.
Get Free College Guidance →
✓ 100% free consultation
✓ Expert admissions advisors
✓ No obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UMN or Vanderbilt harder to get into?+
Vanderbilt is more selective with an acceptance rate of 5.6% compared to 75.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, UMN or Vanderbilt?+
At sticker price, UMN costs less over 4 years ($197,088 vs $327,464). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. UMN offers an average of $15,100/year in aid while Vanderbilt offers $47,200/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for UMN and Vanderbilt?+
The average SAT score at UMN is 1370 and at Vanderbilt it is 1520. Keep in mind that admitted students often score across a range, and many schools practice holistic admissions where test scores are just one factor.
Do UMN or Vanderbilt graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Vanderbilt have a higher average starting salary ($76,800 vs $64,800). Salary outcomes vary significantly by major, industry, and location — so this is a general average across all graduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each school?+
UMN has a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio while Vanderbilt has 7:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do UMN and Vanderbilt compare for campus life?+
UMN is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota (urban setting) with a 1,204-acre campus. Vanderbilt is in Nashville, Tennessee (urban setting) with 330 acres. UMN competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Vanderbilt in NCAA D1.