Undergraduate Admissions
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What essays does Vanderbilt require? How should I answer the questions?

Vanderbilt requires the essay from the Common Application. This essay allows us to gain a more complete understanding of a candidate for admission to Vanderbilt. There are a number of prompts available to answer this essay question. We use the essay to assess not only effectiveness in written communication, but also to learn more fully who the student is and what he or she values. There is no secret method to writing an effective personal essay. The best essays are those written in a student’s authentic voice and that convey the sense that, in formulating and composing the essay, the student achieved a greater sense of self-awareness and self–knowledge.

 

1. What is Early Decision? What is the difference between Early Decision I and II?
2. Will Vanderbilt continue to offer Early Decision?
3. How can I apply to Vanderbilt? Does Vanderbilt prefer a certain type of application?
4. How can I download the application forms? What forms are necessary for my application to be complete?
5. What essays does Vanderbilt require? How should I answer the questions?
6. After I submit my application, how do I notify the admissions office if I have updated or additional information?
7. How will my application be evaluated?
8. Is the high school I attend taken into consideration?
9. Is there a limit to the number of students who can be accepted from a particular high school?
10. Is my family situation taken into consideration?
11. How are applicants with alumni relatives or “legacies” handled in Vanderbilt’s admissions process?
12. Does Vanderbilt prefer one standardized test over another? How important are the SAT and/or ACT in the admissions process?
13. What is the latest date I can take the SAT and/or ACT?
14. Does Vanderbilt require SAT II exams?
15. Does Vanderbilt recognize Advanced Placement (AP) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program?
16. What is Vanderbilt’s policy regarding the writing portions of the SAT and ACT?
17. Is high school class rank used in the admissions process? What if my high school does not rank students?
18. When will I be notified about my admissions decision?
19. How does the waitlist work at Vanderbilt?
20. How important are my senior year course load and grades?
21. How important are extracurricular activities?
22. What are the minimum high school coursework requirements for admission?
23. What can I do in high school to prepare for Vanderbilt?
24. What role does diversity play in the Vanderbilt admissions process?
25. Are interviews required for prospective students?
26. I’m applying for financial aid. Is Vanderbilt need–blind when reviewing applications?
27. What financial aid is available to international students and non–U.S. citizens?