In 2025, the average tuition and fees at 35 four-year Tennessee colleges is $28,264, reflecting a -0.16% increase compared to the previous year.Among the 35 institutions analyzed, tuition rose at 28 colleges, while tuition decreased at only 2 colleges.
Vanderbilt University ranks as the most expensive Tennessee colleges, with tuition and fees reaching $67,498. Known for its prestigious academic programs and strong reputation, Vanderbilt University remains a top choice for students seeking a premium education experience.
Close behind are Rhodes College at$57,110 and The University of the South at$56,120 both consistently recognized among the Tennessee Colleges with the Highest Tuition & Fees, offering high-quality academic programs and resources.
At these High-Cost Tennessee Colleges, the average acceptance rate is 64.69%, and the average SAT score is 1,283, making them not only cost-effective but also accessible options for a wide range of students.
| School Name | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees | Graduate Tuition & Fees | Acceptance Rate | Total Population | SAT Score | Graduation Rate | Students to Faculty Ratio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 - | Vanderbilt University Nashville, TNPrivate, 4-year | $67,498 $3,552 | $57,868 $1,740 | 5.86% | 13,575 | 1,540 | 94.00% | 8 to 1 |
| 2 - | Rhodes College Memphis, TNPrivate, 4-year | $57,110 $2,218 | $57,110 $2,218 | 50.35% | 1,861 | 1,385 | 85.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 3 - | The University of the South Sewanee, TNPrivate, 4-year | $56,120 $2,416 | $19,280 $550 | 56.90% | 1,724 | 1,330 | 80.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 4 - | Belmont University Nashville, TNPrivate, 4-year | $42,540 $1,220 | $27,810 $760 | 95.28% | 8,803 | 1,260 | 71.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 5 1 | Lipscomb University Nashville, TNPrivate, 4-year | $40,572 $1,748 | $17,334 $234 | 67.73% | 5,017 | 1,280 | 72.00% | 13 to 1 |
| 6 1 | Milligan University Milligan, TNPrivate, 4-year | $40,450 $1,100 | $8,358 $391 | 72.29% | 1,240 | 1,185 | 63.00% | 10 to 1 |
| 7 - | Maryville College Maryville, TNPrivate, 4-year | $39,284 $770 | $16,287 $331 | 60.92% | 1,136 | - | 50.00% | 12 to 1 |
| 8 - | Christian Brothers University Memphis, TNPrivate, 4-year | $38,420 $1,120 | $13,998 $410 | 86.70% | 1,772 | 1,205 | 55.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 9 14 | Union University Jackson, TNPrivate, 4-year | $37,398 $17,096 | $14,419 $2,466 | 60.41% | 2,713 | 1,290 | 66.00% | 9 to 1 |
| 10 - | Carson-Newman University Jefferson City, TNPrivate, 4-year | $34,700 - | $14,355 $4,187 | 90.45% | 2,669 | 1,070 | 53.00% | 12 to 1 |
| Average | $45,409 | $24,682 | 64.69% | 4,051 | 1,283 | 68.90% | 10 to 1 |