<p>Hi all, I'm a rising junior who is really interested in Vandy and I just found the page overviewing their merit scholarships. I was just wondering how competitive these scholarships are, particularly the Cornellius Vanderbilt scholarship. If anyone has any insight it would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!</p>
<p>Very competitive. Many students with amazing statistics do not receive them every year.</p>
<p>thanks for the response! do you have any idea what the stats are like in terms of acceptance rate?</p>
<p>The CV scholarship pays tuition plus a one time stipend. It does not cover room and board but financial need can kick in. I think I read a couple of years ago that the odds of winning were in the 1-2% range. The odds of admission in my opinion are increased if you do the merit scholarship application and allow the staff to get to know you via more essays and references. Getting in is the first challenge! </p>
<p>Many fully qualified students are waitlisted at Vandy and at peer colleges re numbers of applicants. Be prepared to get in where you were prepared for a waitlist and to be waitlisted where you felt you had a shot…so make sure to appreciate several colleges for the next year with equal respect. Be open hearted and flexible and try for all merit offers at colleges where you put in an application.</p>
<p>There is really very little difference between merit winners re test scores and the average admit to Vanderbilt. Many “equally” special kids will be admitted but not offered merit and merit is therefore a completely unpredictable option. </p>
<p>Be prepared to face up to your family FAFSA at Vanderbilt and be aware that Vandy has a no loans financial aid option that is pretty great and not that common out there. </p>
<p>Many deserving students from many states find that they may need to choose their state honors programs or their offers from another private college rather than pay full ride to Vandy. It is hard to be realistic about this financial bottom line… so make sure to get a strong picture from your parents on if they will agree to pay their Estimated Cost of Attendance at Vandy and elsewhere. They can use old tax statements to make estimates although they will turn in last year’s numbers when they come available. The financial picture from your home is really really important to get real about in times like these. </p>
<p>Big fan of Vandy here, but honestly there are many many wonderful colleges out there with great faculty and great opportunities. Neither of our sons attended the college of their junior year in HS dreams…so stay open and best of luck as you shake out your final list!</p>