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College comparison
Johns Hopkins 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 |  Johns Hopkins Baltimore, MD |  Vanderbilt Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateVanderbilt University is more selective | 6% | 6% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1520–1570 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 5,693 | 7,208 |
| Avg net price | $18,809 | $15,846 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Vanderbilt reports higher median earnings | $87,555 | $91,565 |
| Graduation rate | 94% | 94% |
| Median debt | $10,250 | $14,000 |
| Economic mobility | 2.2% | 1.5% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Johns Hopkins vs Vanderbilt: how they compare
Two leading private research universities with distinct cultures, both offering strong outcomes in a city setting.
By the numbers Both are equally selective (6% acceptance) with near-identical SAT ranges (JHU 1520–1570, Vandy 1500–1570) and graduation rates (94%). Vanderbilt shows a stronger financial value proposition, with a lower average net price ($16k vs. $19k) and a higher value multiplier (5.8× vs. 4.7× earnings per dollar of net price). It also leads in 10-year median earnings ($92k vs. $88k). Johns Hopkins, however, excels in economic mobility (215% rate vs. 147%) and demonstrates greater stability in admissions (61% admit-rate volatility vs. 91%). JHU also has a stronger federal financial health score (3.0/3) and a higher future scholar yield (7.8), indicating strength in graduate training in science and engineering.
Where they overlap They are peer institutions in selectivity and graduation success, both located in vibrant, urban environments that offer cultural and professional opportunities beyond campus.
How they differ The core distinction lies in campus culture and academic focus. Qualitative sentiment consistently describes Johns Hopkins as having an academically driven atmosphere, particularly strong in STEM and pre-medical tracks. Vanderbilt is often characterized as having a balanced and vibrant social environment alongside its rigorous academics.
Who each suits Johns Hopkins suits the focused, independent student pursuing research, especially in biomedical fields, who thrives in a meritocratic environment. Vanderbilt is a fit for the high-achieving student seeking a socially engaged experience without sacrificing academic prestige, particularly for those valuing community and balance.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Johns Hopkins University or Vanderbilt University harder to get into?
- Vanderbilt University is more selective: Johns Hopkins University's acceptance rate is approximately 6% and Vanderbilt University's is approximately 6% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Johns Hopkins University vs Vanderbilt University?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1520–1570 at Johns Hopkins 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.