University of Wisconsin-Madison vs Vanderbilt University

Madison, WI — Nashville, TN

Metric
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Location Madison, WI Nashville, TN
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 36,902 7,208
Acceptance Rate 45.2% 5.9%
SAT Average 1,427 1,549
In-State Tuition $11,603 $67,498
Out-of-State Tuition $42,103 $67,498
Avg Net Price $17,354 $15,846
Median Debt at Graduation $20,484 $14,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 89.4% 93.1%
Retention Rate 96.2% 96.3%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $61,275 $73,909
Median Earnings (10 yr) $73,792 $91,565
Loan Repayment Rate 729100.0% 84500.0%

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

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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Wisconsin-Madison and Vanderbilt University compare?
University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792. 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, University of Wisconsin-Madison or Vanderbilt University?
Vanderbilt University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $91,565 vs $73,792. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Wisconsin-Madison 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 $17,354.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Vanderbilt University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.1% vs 89.4%.

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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