Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
UVA
$280,784
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
Vanderbilt
$327,464
4-year total (private)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: UVA = $193,984 | Vanderbilt = $138,664. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
UVA Top Majors
EconomicsBusinessComputer ScienceBiologyPsychologyVanderbilt Top Majors
EconomicsEngineeringMedicine/HealthComputer ScienceEducation
Need Help Choosing Between UVA & 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 UVA or Vanderbilt harder to get into?+
Vanderbilt is more selective with an acceptance rate of 5.6% compared to 16.3%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, UVA or Vanderbilt?+
At sticker price, UVA costs less over 4 years ($280,784 vs $327,464). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. UVA offers an average of $21,700/year in aid while Vanderbilt offers $47,200/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for UVA and Vanderbilt?+
The average SAT score at UVA is 1440 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 UVA or Vanderbilt graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Vanderbilt have a higher average starting salary ($76,800 vs $71,500). 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?+
UVA has a 15:1 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 UVA and Vanderbilt compare for campus life?+
UVA is located in Charlottesville, Virginia (suburban setting) with a 1,682-acre campus. Vanderbilt is in Nashville, Tennessee (urban setting) with 330 acres. UVA competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Vanderbilt in NCAA D1.