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College comparison
Vanderbilt vs Williams
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 |  Vanderbilt Nashville, TN |  Williams Williamstown, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateVanderbilt University is more selective | 6% | 8% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1500–1570 | 1490–1570 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 7,208 | 2,076 |
| Avg net price | $15,846 | $17,716 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Vanderbilt reports higher median earnings | $91,565 | $88,665 |
| Graduation rate | 94% | 94% |
| Median debt | $14,000 | $12,761 |
| Economic mobility | 1.5% | 1.0% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Vanderbilt vs Williams: how they compare
Vanderbilt and Williams are both selective institutions, with the choice largely depending on a preference for a larger research university in a city versus a smaller liberal arts college in a rural setting.
By the numbers Vanderbilt shows a stronger quantitative return on investment. Its 10-year median earnings are $92k versus Williams's $89k, achieved at a lower average net price ($16k vs. $18k). This yields a higher value multiplier: 5.8x earnings per dollar of net price compared to Williams's 5.0x. Vanderbilt also demonstrates significantly greater economic mobility, with a rate of 147% versus 99%. In selectivity, Vanderbilt is slightly more exclusive (6% acceptance rate vs. 8%) with a marginally higher SAT 25-75th percentile range (1500–1570 vs. 1490–1570). Williams, however, holds a perfect 3.0/3 DOE financial-health score, indicating exceptional institutional stability.
Where they overlap Both are exceptionally selective with identical 94% graduation rates. They deliver strong financial outcomes for graduates. Each provides a rigorous academic environment with access to distinguished faculty.
How they differ The core difference is institutional scale and setting. Vanderbilt is a major private research university located in Nashville, offering a larger university experience with NCAA Division I athletics and the resources of a city. Williams is a small, rural liberal arts college known for its discussion-based pedagogy and close student-faculty collaboration. The social and campus life rhythms differ as a result.
Who each suits Vanderbilt may suit a student seeking the opportunities of a research university within a dynamic city, who values school spirit and a larger social scene. Williams may be the choice for a student who prioritizes a collaborative, discussion-focused liberal arts education in a tight-knit, residential community, preferring close mentorship.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Vanderbilt University or Williams College harder to get into?
- Vanderbilt University is more selective: Vanderbilt University's acceptance rate is approximately 6% and Williams College's is approximately 8% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Vanderbilt University vs Williams College?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1500–1570 at Vanderbilt University and 1490–1570 at Williams College. 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.