2305 West End Avenue
Nashville, TN 37203-1727
615-322-2561 | 800-288-0432
admissions@vanderbilt.edu
What can I do in high school to prepare for Vanderbilt?
By far the best method of preparing for admission to Vanderbilt, or to any selective university, is to take as many rigorous courses as you can healthily manage while working hard to make the best grades possible. Remember that learning is worthwhile for its own sake, not merely as a vehicle for getting into a “good” college. The most compelling applications will demonstrate a genuine love of learning as opposed to the mechanical pursuit of good grades. Participate in extracurricular activities because they have meaning to you, not merely because they will be needed for your college application. Preparing for a selective university begins when you first enter high school, not sometime in the middle of your junior year. By following these guidelines and your own internal compass, you will arrive at the college admissions process as prepared and self–aware as you can possibly be.
- 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?