The Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship, established in 2007 through a gift from the Sartain Lanier Family Foundation, aims to unify Vanderbilt University’s full-tuition academic merit scholarships. Named after the university’s founder, Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, who donated $1 million in 1873 to strengthen national ties, the scholarship fosters intellectual and community leadership on campus, encouraging interdisciplinary connections among students.
About Vanderbilt University
From its founding in 1873 as an institution devoted to “strengthening the ties which should exist between all sections of our common country,” Vanderbilt University has forged a tradition of academic excellence infused with a unique spirit of collaboration and collegiality. Our mission lies in the quest to bring out the best in humanity—pushing new ideas into the frontiers of discovery, challenging the limits of what’s possible and working diligently in the service of others.
Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship 2025
Vanderbilt University is offering scholarship opportunities for individuals seeking to pursue undergraduate programs at the institution.
Why You Should Apply For The Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship
Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholars receive full tuition, plus a one-time summer stipend for an immersive experience following the sophomore or junior year. Vanderbilt will provide additional need-based financial aid to those Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship recipients whose demonstrated need exceeds the amount of full-tuition. Scholarships are renewed each year as long as the recipient maintains at least a 3.0 GPA.
Interview date, Process and Venue for Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship
The Cornelius Vanderbilt application is strongly encouraged; preference is given to those who apply. Applicants apply via MyAppVU after submitting admission application. Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholars are selected on the basis of academic achievement, intellectual promise, and leadership and contribution outside the classroom. In evaluating candidates, the selection committees review the entire application for freshman admissions along with the Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship application. Audition scores are a factor in merit scholarship selection for Blair School of Music recipients.
Application Deadline For The Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship
The application deadline for the Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship is December 1, 2025
How To Apply For The Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship
For more details, visit Vanderbilt University Scholarship webpage
