Vanderbilt University

“Honestly, it's tough to get inFeb 22 2007Economics
Honestly, it's tough to get in. No matter how much of a shoe-in you think you are, there's never a guarantee. Vanderbilt is becoming such a popular school that admissions has the ability to take whoever they want due to the strength of each applicant pool. Being a legacy helps, as does having a sibling who attended or attends. But I think the main thing Vanderbilt looks for is outside of the SAT and GPA, although those are definitely important. I think admissions searchs for students who will thrive here; that is, they look for students who have already shown strength in both their academic and social lives.

“Good grades, goodJan 14 2007Psychology
good grades, good SAT's, the usual, but also, diversity REALLY helps--beware though--that once you are here it is pretty segregated socially
SAT: 1320 Male

“The best way to get into Vanderbilt is toAug 18 2006Economics
The best way to get into Vanderbilt is to have as many of the following as possible.
1) An SAT score of 1400 or above. (32 or higher if in the South)
2) Depending on how well known your high school is (i.e. a well known private school or a public magnet or math and science school) you GPA must be 3.8 or higher. If you come from one of the above schools you can get in with a 35 or higher, but your test scores must be excellent and you have tyo have good recommendations.
3) I recommend finding at least two teachers from ANY year of high school that will go to bat for you on the page long recommendation forms. Also someone who you've worked for or an old coach that can mainly vouch for your character or work ethic is a plus. Send three only. More than three is boring to administrators and less than three shows a lack of effort.
4) Stress a FEW extracurricular activities that you were heavily involved in. Many student are members of tons of different clubs, sports groups, etc. and admissions knows this. Keeping it short, but profound sticks out in the minds of admissions.
5) Take AP tests only in subjects you are good at and hope to focus on in school. A 760 on Math II SAT II looks great. A 580 in biology, when you want to be an English major does nothing.

In summary, the best way to get accepted is to have a high GPA, good test scores, and solid recommendations. If you live in Tennessee it is harder to get in. If you play a sport to collegiate level, this is a big plus.
ACT: 34 SAT: 1450 Male

“Study for and take theAug 07 2006Math
Study for and take the SAT/ACT at least 2 times each, but remember it isn't everything. I didn't cram my high school years with a million fake activities; I showed a commitment and passion for a few things. They look at the whole person.
ACT: 31 Male

“Get involved in high schoolAug 04 2006Economics
Get involved in high school activities, keep in top 5% of class. Aim for student governance, etc....work hard
SAT: 1240 Male