College comparison

University of Pennsylvania vs Vanderbilt University

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.

Quick answers

Is University of Pennsylvania or Vanderbilt University harder to get into?

University of Pennsylvania is more selective: University of Pennsylvania'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 University of Pennsylvania vs Vanderbilt University?

The middle-50% SAT range is 1510–1570 at University of Pennsylvania and 1500–1570 at Vanderbilt University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.

Which is cheaper, University of Pennsylvania or Vanderbilt University?

Vanderbilt University has the lower average net price after aid: $28,699 at University of Pennsylvania vs $15,846 at Vanderbilt University. Actual cost varies with financial aid and residency.

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.