Vanderbilt University vs Columbia University in the City of New York

Nashville, TN — New York, NY

Metric
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location Nashville, TN New York, NY
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,208 8,973
Acceptance Rate 5.9% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,549 1,553
In-State Tuition $67,498 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $67,498 $71,845
Avg Net Price $15,846 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $14,000 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 93.1% 95.5%
Retention Rate 96.3% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $73,909 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $91,565 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 84500.0% 185800.0%

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

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Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Vanderbilt University and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
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. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Vanderbilt University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $91,565. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Vanderbilt University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Vanderbilt University is the more affordable option at $15,846 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 93.1%.

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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