Western Kentucky University vs Vanderbilt University
Bowling Green, KY — Nashville, TN
| Metric | Western Kentucky University Bowling Green, KY | Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Bowling Green, KY | Nashville, TN |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 12,155 | 7,208 |
| Acceptance Rate | 93.9% | 5.9% |
| SAT Average | 971 | 1,549 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,652 | $67,498 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $27,000 | $67,498 |
| Avg Net Price | $10,990 | $15,846 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,095 | $14,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 54.6% | 93.1% |
| Retention Rate | 78.3% | 96.3% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $38,156 | $73,909 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $43,889 | $91,565 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 863500.0% | 84500.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY
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Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Western Kentucky University and Vanderbilt University compare?▼
Western Kentucky University (Bowling Green, KY) has an acceptance rate of 93.9%, in-state tuition of $11,652, and median 10-year earnings of $43,889. 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, Western Kentucky University or Vanderbilt University?▼
Vanderbilt University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $91,565 vs $43,889. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Western Kentucky University or Vanderbilt University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Western Kentucky University is the more affordable option at $10,990 per year versus $15,846.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Vanderbilt University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.1% vs 54.6%.
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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