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College comparison
Brown vs Vanderbilt
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Brown Providence, RI |  Vanderbilt Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateBrown University is more selective | 5% | 6% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1510–1580 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 7,226 | 7,208 |
| Avg net price | $25,184 | $15,846 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Brown reports higher median earnings | $93,487 | $91,565 |
| Graduation rate | 96% | 94% |
| Median debt | $11,428 | $14,000 |
| Economic mobility | 1.5% | 1.5% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Brown vs Vanderbilt: how they compare
Brown and Vanderbilt are both selective private universities, with the choice often depending on culture, cost, and educational approach.
By the numbers Quantitatively, Vanderbilt presents a stronger financial value proposition, with an average net price of $16k versus Brown’s $25k, and a value multiplier of 5.8x earnings per dollar of net price compared to Brown’s 3.7x. Ten-year median earnings are nearly identical (Brown: $93k; Vanderbilt: $92k). Selectivity is comparable, with Brown slightly lower at a 5% acceptance rate and a 1510–1580 SAT range versus Vanderbilt’s 6% and 1500–1570. Brown shows a marginally higher economic-mobility rate (155% vs. 147%) and a significantly more stable admissions process (48% admit-rate volatility vs. 91%). Brown also edges Vanderbilt in graduation rate (96% vs. 94%) and future scholar yield (8.4).
Where they overlap Both are highly selective universities with urban campuses, known for strong undergraduate teaching and positive outcomes. They attract high-achieving students and offer established pre-professional pathways.
How they differ The cultures are distinct. Brown is known for its open curriculum, which has no core requirements, fostering a self-directed and intellectually explorative atmosphere. Vanderbilt is often described as having a more classic collegiate culture, with a structured academic environment and an active social scene that includes Greek life.
Who each suits Brown suits the independent, intellectually curious student who values academic freedom. Vanderbilt is a match for the student who seeks a blend of top-tier academics with a more traditional campus community. For a data-driven family, Vanderbilt's lower net price may be a notable quantitative factor, while Brown's distinctive educational model is a key qualitative one.
Quick answers
- Is Brown University or Vanderbilt University harder to get into?
- Brown University is more selective: Brown University's acceptance rate is approximately 5% and Vanderbilt University's is approximately 6% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Brown University vs Vanderbilt University?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1510–1580 at Brown University and 1500–1570 at Vanderbilt University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.