UNITED STATES · NASHVILLE

Vanderbilt University

private · Founded 1873 · Languages: en

In short

Vanderbilt University is a private research institution in Nashville, Tennessee, offering diverse programs and a vibrant campus life. It provides merit scholarships for international students and is known for its rigorous academics and opportunities in a growing city.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1873
Students: 12,093
International students: 1,700
Acceptance rate: 7%
Tuition (intl): €55–62k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Nashville, United States

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,420/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Vanderbilt University · United States

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Vanderbilt University School of Nursing offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program designed for registered nurses seeking advanced practice or leadership roles. The DNP program can be pursued through various entry points, including a direct BSN to DNP track, or for those holding a master's degree in nursing or a related field. The program emphasizes developing advanced clinical expertise and leadership skills. Depending on the chosen track, students will focus on areas such as advanced clinical practice, systems leadership, or nurse anesthesia. The DNP is structured to build upon existing knowledge and experience, preparing graduates to address complex healthcare challenges and lead change in nursing practice.

Vanderbilt University · United States

Doctoral Program in Psychological Sciences

The Doctoral Program in Psychological Sciences at Vanderbilt University is a rigorous program focused on psychological theory and the development of original empirical research. Offered jointly by the Department of Psychology (College of Arts and Science) and the Department of Psychology and Human Development (Peabody College), the program aims to train students for academic careers. Students are admitted to work towards a Ph.D. degree in specialized areas, with a strong emphasis on close faculty mentorship and active student participation throughout the research process. The curriculum is designed to provide a broad foundation in psychology, specialized training in a chosen area, and flexibility to pursue individual research interests. The program structure involves core courses in quantitative methods and substantive areas during the first two years, followed by seminars, research participation, and other activities aligned with career objectives. Each specialized area hosts regular seminars on current research. A key aspect of the program is continuous involvement in research, guided by a one-on-one mentoring model. Advisory committees provide ongoing support, and there are opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across the university, fostering a dynamic intellectual environment. Graduates are primarily placed in academic settings. While Master's degrees are generally not offered independently, they may be available to students within the Ph.D. program or through specific programs like the M.Ed. in Child Studies or M.S. in Quantitative Methods & Data Analytics. The program is committed to tailoring training to individual student needs and interests.

Vanderbilt University · United States

Economics Support at Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University's Tutoring Services offers comprehensive academic support for undergraduate Economics students. This includes free, one-on-one individual tutoring sessions and group learning opportunities. Tutors are successful current undergraduate and graduate students dedicated to helping their peers achieve academic success. The services aim to support students in core economics courses, from introductory principles to more advanced econometrics.

Vanderbilt University · United States

Education Policy and Leadership (Ph.D.)

The Ph.D. in Education Policy and Leadership at Vanderbilt University is designed for individuals aspiring to academic careers as researchers, professors, or policy analysts. This interdisciplinary program allows you to examine educational policy and challenges through lenses from economics, political science, sociology, and international/comparative education. You will gain the necessary knowledge and methodological tools to conduct advanced research on critical contemporary educational issues. The program emphasizes a mentor-apprentice model, where students collaborate closely with faculty on research projects, developing an individualized program of study aligned with their specific interests and background. Two concentrations are offered: Educational Leadership and Policy, and Higher Education Leadership and Policy.

Vanderbilt University · United States

LL.M. Program

Vanderbilt Law School offers a one-year Master of Laws (LL.M.) program designed for international students. The program provides a deep dive into U.S. legal studies, with options for a general Course Track, a specialized Law and Business Track focusing on corporate law and finance, or a Thesis Track for research-oriented students. All tracks allow students to take courses relevant to the New York bar exam. The LL.M. is a 9-month, full-time, on-campus program with fall admission only.

Vanderbilt University · United States

Master of Accountancy (MAcc) Assurance

The Vanderbilt Master of Accountancy (MAcc) Assurance program is designed for students from any academic background seeking to launch a successful career in accounting, particularly within global firms. It offers a fast-track path to a professional career with a curriculum taught by world-class faculty in small class settings that encourage collaboration and in-depth learning. The program emphasizes practical experience through opportunities for paid internships and provides dedicated preparation for the CPA exam, aiming for high first-time pass rates.

Scholarships

for United States

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Duke University

Karsh International Scholarship Program

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.

University of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)

University of Miami Stamps Scholarship

Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What is the estimated cost of attendance for international undergraduate students at Vanderbilt University?

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The annual undergraduate tuition at Vanderbilt is approximately USD 61,000. Including room, board, and fees, the total estimated cost of attendance is around USD 85,000 per year.

Are there scholarships available for international students at Vanderbilt University?

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International students are eligible for merit scholarships, such as the Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship, Ingram Scholars Program, and Chancellor's Scholarship, which can cover full tuition and summer stipends. Graduate international students are automatically considered for Peabody College Merit Scholarships.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

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International applicants must meet minimum English proficiency scores. For the TOEFL iBT, this is a 100 minimum total with no sub-score below 21. For IELTS, it's a 7.0 overall band score with a minimum of 6.5 in each band. A Duolingo English Test score of at least 130 is also accepted.

How does Vanderbilt University support its international students?

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Vanderbilt provides resources like the Student Center for Belonging and Communities and centers for LGBTQI+ Life and Women's issues. The university's location in Nashville also offers opportunities in various professional sectors.

What is the application process for international students at Vanderbilt?

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International students can apply using the Common Application, Coalition Application, or QuestBridge. The university uses a holistic review process and considers applicants for Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision.

Vanderbilt University

Why study here

Student life

For international students