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Membership Program

Five OLLI members wearing name badge lanyards stand together and smile at the Tennessee State Museum.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Vanderbilt is a membership program for adults who want to enhance their lives by participating in dynamic learning programs in a fun, welcoming community. 

The membership program helps keep OLLI at Vanderbilt vibrant, accessible and responsive to member interests—supporting expanded course and event offerings, high-quality instructors and a strong, connected community. 

As a member of OLLI at Vanderbilt, you can take enriching courses year-round and join a robust community of engaged and curious peers. The people, courses, stimulating discussions, events and shared interest groups come together to create an inspiring, vibrant experience that makes learning exciting and meaningful. 

Membership Benefits

Year-Round Courses

Attend year-round courses with free parking.

Free Lunch and Learns

Join our Lunch and Learn events for free.

Vanderbilt Library

Access the Vanderbilt Library system with a library card.

Vanderbilt Bookstore Discounts

Receive 10 percent off books at Vanderbilt University Bookstore.

Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

Get early access to Telescope Nights and other exclusive opportunities.

Discounted Special Events

Participate in all special events and day trips at a discounted rate.

Exclusive Learning Opportunities

Access exclusive educational and event opportunities through Vanderbilt Libraries.

Vanderbilt Travel Program

OLLI members can participate in the Vanderbilt Travel program.

OLLI Annual Meeting

Members are invited to attend the OLLI at Vanderbilt annual meeting.

Membership Fee

Starting July 2026, an annual membership fee is $80. Regardless of when you join, your membership is valid for one year from the date of purchase, providing access to numerous courses, special events, shared interest groups and other benefits. It’s easy to join or renew. Your annual membership fee is automatically added to your cart during class registration if you are new or your membership needs to be renewed. You may also purchase or renew your membership at any time using the link below, or by calling 615-343-0700.

Register for Courses and Special Events

Purchase or Renew Membership
Three professionally dressed older adults walk together outdoors on a sunny day

Who Can Join?

Any adult age 50 or better with a passion for learning and connection is welcome. OLLI at Vanderbilt brings together individuals from all educational and professional backgrounds who share a curiosity about the world and a desire to engage with others. It’s an ideal way to explore new ideas, stay intellectually active and build meaningful relationships in a vibrant, welcoming community.

Membership FAQ

  • Why is OLLI at Vanderbilt introducing a membership model?

    To adhere with Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Vanderbilt’s endowment agreement with The Bernard Osher Foundation, established in 2009 and to be in alignment with The Osher Lifelong Learning Network, OLLI at Vanderbilt is transitioning to a membership model to strengthen and sustain the program for the future. This approach, used by OLLI programs nationwide, allows us to: 

    • Expand course and event offerings  
    • Support high-quality instructors and programming  
    • Build a stronger, more connected learning community  

    Membership helps ensure OLLI remains vibrant, accessible, and responsive to member interests. OLLI Members will be defined, as in our policies and procedures, as those who have paid the annual membership fee to OLLI at Vanderbilt during the current fiscal year (July 1-June 30).

  • How much does membership cost?

    The OLLI at Vanderbilt membership fee is $80 per year per individual. You will be asked to pay the fee when you register for your first course of the current academic year.

  • Can my spouse, partner, roommate or friend and I share a membership?

    No. Just as everyone is expected to enroll in courses, the same is true of membership. It is for an individual.

  • How often do I need to renew my membership?

    Membership is valid for one year from date of purchase and must be renewed to continue participating in member offerings.

  • What are the benefits of membership?

    OLLI membership provides access to a wide range of enriching opportunities, including:

    • Attending courses with FREE parking
    • FREE Lunch and Learns
    • Access to the Vanderbilt Library system with a library card
    • 10% off books at Vanderbilt University Bookstore
    • Early access to Dyer Observatory Telescope Nights and other exclusive Dyer opportunities
    • Participate in all special events and day trips at a discounted membership rate
    • Exclusive opportunities through Vanderbilt Library
    • Regular communication about other Vanderbilt activities and educational opportunities
    • Invitation to OLLI Annual Meeting
  • Do I need to be a member to participate?

    Yes. Active membership is required to register for courses and participate in most OLLI programs.

  • Are there any opportunities for non-members?

    Non-members may be able to:

    • Attend select public events or introductory sessions
    • Receive communications about upcoming programs
    • Participate in Lunch and Learns and Special Events at an increased price point

    We encourage prospective participants to explore these opportunities and consider joining.

  • Does membership include course fees?

    No. Membership provides access to register for programs. Courses will have additional fees as will some other programs and OLLI field trips.

  • Is my membership transferable?

    No. OLLI memberships are non-transferable and may only be used by the individual who purchased them.

  • Can I receive a refund for my membership?

    Membership fees are non-refundable. Please contact our office if you have questions about your specific situation.

  • Are scholarships or financial assistance available?

    Yes. OLLI at Vanderbilt offers limited scholarships for course or event fees to support participation. We do not offer scholarships for the Annual Membership fee.

    To learn more or apply, please email oshervu@vanderbilt.edu.

  • Who can join OLLI at Vanderbilt?

    OLLI is designed for adults who are interested in lifelong learning, typically those aged 50 and older. There are no academic prerequisites, and all are welcome.

  • How do I join or renew my membership?

    You can join or renew online at vanderbilt.edu/olli or contact us at oshervu@vanderbilt.edu for assistance.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Vanderbilt logo

PMB 407760
2301 Vanderbilt Place
Nashville, TN 37240
615-343-0700
Email