Requirements and rankings
Duke University
Overview of Duke University
Founded in 1838, Duke University is a prestigious research university known for its rigorous academic programs, vibrant campus life, championship-level athletics and commitment to interdisciplinary education. It offers a dynamic and supportive environment that fosters intellectual growth and innovation.
Type
4-year, Private
Location
Durham, North Carolina
Campus Life
Large, Urban
Degrees Offered
Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral
$30,129 per year
Average Cost After Aid
1520–1570
SAT Range
95%
Graduation Rate
5156
College Board Code
Campus and Location
- Duke’s 8,693-acre campus is located in Durham, North Carolina, offering a blend of Gothic architecture and modern research facilities.
- The university is situated in the Research Triangle, providing students with numerous opportunities for internships, research, and professional development.
Unique Features
Academics
Duke is divided into two undergraduate schools: the Trinity College of Arts & Sciences and the Pratt School of Engineering. Each student at Duke takes classes at the Trinity College of Arts and Science as it makes up the core of Duke educations. The Pratt School of Engineering’s 4+1 program allows engineering students to finish a bachelors and masters degree in five years.
Athletics
Duke Athletics team compete in the 15-member Atlantic Coast Conference and field teams in 27 NCAA Division I varsity sports. Duke has won national championships in men’s basketball, women’s golf, men’s soccer, men’s lacrosse and women’s tennis.
Extracurriculars
The Bryan Center is the hub of student activity serving as an expanded student union and is home to student organizations and the University Union, which oversees student-run cultural and social activities.
Academic Environment and Programs at Duke University
Duke offers a wide range of programs across its Trinity College of Arts & Sciences and the Pratt School of Engineering. The university encourages students to explore diverse fields of study and supports interdisciplinary research and learning.
Popular Programs
Computer Science
Economics
Biology
Public Policy
Majors Available
53 Majors; 52 Minors
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
8:1
Retention Rate
98%
Undergraduate Student Population
6,542
Graduate Student Population
8,383
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Duke University Requirements and Acceptance Rates
Acceptance Rate
7.7% - Highly Selective
Regular Application Deadline
January 2
Application Requirements
High School GPA
Required
High School Rank
Not considered
College Prep Courses
Required
SAT/ACT Scores
Considered if submitted
Recommendations
Required
General Requirements
Duke values strong academics and creativity. Recommended coursework includes four years of English and three years each of math, science, foreign language, and social studies, with five courses yearly. For the Pratt School of Engineering, calculus is required, and physics is recommended.
Standardized Tests
Submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional for the 2024-2025 admissions cycle. Students may submit these scores if they believe it will enhance their application.
Supplemental Materials
Duke's application requires a Common App essay, supplemental essays, a school report, and three recommendations: one from your counselor and two from recent major-subject teachers. Pratt School applicants need one from a math or science teacher. All applicants must also answer a 250-word prompt on why Duke is a good fit.
Application Process for Duke University
Duke offers Early Decision, which is binding, and Regular Decision. Early Decision applicants receive decisions by mid-December with a 16.5% acceptance rate, while Regular Decision applicants are notified by late March with a 5.2% acceptance rate.
Speak to an advisor today!Costs and Financial Aid
Financial Aid
Duke meets 100% of demonstrated need through a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans.
Average Net Price
Total cost of attendance for 2024-2025 is approximately $88,938
Average Net Price
$30,129 per year
Students Receiving Financial Aid
50%
Average Aid Package
$58,809
Tuition
$66,326 per year
Other Costs
Costs related to additional expenses.
Housing
$10,254 per year
Food
$9,544 per year
Books and Supplies
$536 per year
Financial Aid Details
- Duke offers a variety of financial aid options, including need-based aid and merit scholarships.
- The university ensures that financial aid packages meet the full demonstrated need of all admitted students.
- Duke issues over $149 million each year in grant and scholarship aid.
University Rankings
#17
Forbes Top Colleges Ranking
#13
Niche Best Colleges in America List
#10
U.S. News & World Report
#17
WSJ Times Higher Education Ranking
FAQs about Duke University Admission
Speak to an advisor today!What makes Duke University unique among top colleges?
Duke’s strong interdisciplinary approach, extensive research opportunities, and commitment to service learning set it apart. Dukes Immerse program, a semester long program where students delve deeply into a single theme and Bass Connections initiative, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration among students and faculty on societal challenges, both foster an interdiscplinary focus.
How competitive is admission to Duke University?
With an acceptance rate of 7.7%, admission is highly competitive. Duke alleged use yield protection, a practice in which colleges reject or waitlist excellent candidates they believe will get accepted at more prestigious institutions. Because Duke is often seen as a “safe target” school, it does place particular emphasis on its 150-word “Why Duke” essays. It also places more value on admissions interviews than other institutions, weighted at about 10% compared to 3-4% at other colleges.
What opportunities does Duke offer for research and practical learning?
Duke provides extensive research opportunities, internships, and programs like Bass Connections and DukeEngage. The Duke Medical School and Duke Hospital provide extensive research opportunities in medicine and healthcare, often involving undergraduates in cutting-edge medical research. Centers like the Duke Global Health Institute and the Nicholar Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions foster interdisciplinary research on global issues.
What are the benefits of the campus location?
Duke University’s campus in Durham, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and Southern charm, surrounded by the lush Duke Forest and the vibrant Research Triangle. This location provides students with access to top-tier research facilities and job opportunities in nearby tech, biotech, and healthcare industries, thanks to the presence of companies like IBM, GlaxoSmithKline, and numerous startups. Durham’s thriving food scene, arts, and music culture, along with proximity to both the mountains and the coast, offer a dynamic and balanced college experience. Additionally, Duke’s campus is just a short drive from Raleigh and Chapel Hill, expanding the opportunities for cultural and academic collaborations.
How does Duke support students financially?
Duke University supports students financially through its need-blind admission policy, ensuring that financial need does not impact admissions decisions. The university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, primarily through grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid. Duke offers robust merit scholarships, such as the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program and Reginaldo Howard Scholarship, which provide full tuition and additional benefits. Additionally, Duke’s Karsh Office of Undergraduate Financial Support offers personalized financial planning resources and guidance to help families navigate the financial aid process effectively.
How does Duke support international students?
The International House provides support services, including orientation, advising, and cultural programming, to help international students acclimate to campus life.
What is life like after graduation?
Life after graduating from Duke University is marked by impressive career outcomes, with about 95% of graduates finding employment or enrolling in further education within six months. Duke’s graduation rate stands at a strong 95%, reflecting the university’s rigorous academic preparation. The average starting salary for Duke alumni is approximately $85,000, with many landing prestigious roles in finance, consulting, and tech giants like Goldman Sachs, McKinsey, and Google. The university’s proximity to the Research Triangle further enhances job prospects, especially in biotech and healthcare, where many Duke graduates thrive. Additionally, Duke’s active alumni network provides personalized mentorship and networking opportunities, giving graduates an edge in advancing their careers.
External Links for Duke University
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