2305 West End Avenue
Nashville, TN 37203-1727
615-322-2561 | 800-288-0432
admissions@vanderbilt.edu
How will my application be evaluated?
Vanderbilt’s admissions process is a based on a holistic review in which a student’s academic record, standardized test results, personal essays, recommendations, and extracurricular involvement are all taken into consideration in making admissions decision. Of these factors, a student’s academic achievement in high school always plays the biggest role in our decision–making. However, a holistic review ensures that no one factor along leads to admission or keeps a student from admission. It is also important to note the Office of Undergraduate Admissions’ proud tradition of positive advocacy, meaning we take seriously the notion of reading an application file looking for the reasons to admit the student, rather than looking for the reason not to admit. The difference is subtle, yet significant. Because we evaluate applications looking for what is good about a student, simple mistakes such word misspellings or grammatical errors will not be what cause an applicant to not be offered admission.
- 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?