2305 West End Avenue
Nashville, TN 37203-1727
615-322-2561 | 800-288-0432
admissions@vanderbilt.edu
Does Vanderbilt prefer one standardized test over another? How important are the SAT and/or ACT in the admissions process?
Vanderbilt requires all students to submit an official score report from either the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT directly from the appropriate testing agency. At least one of these scores must include a writing section subscore. There is absolutely no preference between the two exams, though students taking the ACT only must remember to sit for the optional writing section during at least one administration.
It is no secret that standardized test results play an important role in selective college admissions. While test results are one key way in which applicants compete for the limited number of seats in Vanderbilt’s entering class, it is important to remember that it is impossible to predict admissions outcomes on the basis of test scores alone. In our holistic review process, far greater weight is given to a student’s academic achievement in high school, while other factors such as extracurricular involvement, recommendations, and the personal essays are considered heavily as well. Test scores are important, but they are not used exclusively to either eliminate or admit candidates.
- What is Early Decision? What is the difference between Early Decision I and II?
- Will Vanderbilt continue to offer Early Decision?
- How can I apply to Vanderbilt? Does Vanderbilt prefer a certain type of application?
- How can I download the application forms? What forms are necessary for my application to be complete?
- What essays does Vanderbilt require? How should I answer the questions?
- After I submit my application, how do I notify the admissions office if I have updated or additional information?
- How will my application be evaluated?
- Is the high school I attend taken into consideration?
- Is there a limit to the number of students who can be accepted from a particular high school?
- Is my family situation taken into consideration?
- How are applicants with alumni relatives or “legacies” handled in Vanderbilt’s admissions process?
- Does Vanderbilt prefer one standardized test over another? How important are the SAT and/or ACT in the admissions process?
- What is the latest date I can take the SAT and/or ACT?
- Does Vanderbilt require SAT II exams?
- Does Vanderbilt recognize Advanced Placement (AP) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program?
- What is Vanderbilt’s policy regarding the writing portions of the SAT and ACT?
- Is high school class rank used in the admissions process? What if my high school does not rank students?
- When will I be notified about my admissions decision?
- How does the waitlist work at Vanderbilt?
- How important are my senior year course load and grades?
- How important are extracurricular activities?
- What are the minimum high school coursework requirements for admission?
- What can I do in high school to prepare for Vanderbilt?
- What role does diversity play in the Vanderbilt admissions process?
- Are interviews required for prospective students?
- I’m applying for financial aid. Is Vanderbilt need–blind when reviewing applications?
- What financial aid is available to international students and non–U.S. citizens?