The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs Vanderbilt University

Knoxville, TN — Nashville, TN

Metric
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Location Knoxville, TN Nashville, TN
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 30,418 7,208
Acceptance Rate 41.6% 5.9%
SAT Average 1,311 1,549
In-State Tuition $13,812 $67,498
Out-of-State Tuition $33,256 $67,498
Avg Net Price $18,976 $15,846
Median Debt at Graduation $20,500 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 73.7% 93.1%
Retention Rate 91.9% 96.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,782 $73,909
Median Earnings (10 yr) $60,249 $91,565
Loan Repayment Rate 696900.0% 84500.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
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Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do The University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Vanderbilt University compare?
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville (Knoxville, TN) has an acceptance rate of 41.6%, in-state tuition of $13,812, and median 10-year earnings of $60,249. Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN) has an acceptance rate of 5.9%, in-state tuition of $67,498, and median 10-year earnings of $91,565.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Vanderbilt University?
Vanderbilt University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $91,565 vs $60,249. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Vanderbilt University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Vanderbilt University is the more affordable option at $15,846 per year versus $18,976.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Vanderbilt University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.1% vs 73.7%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025