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Duke

Duke University · Durham, North Carolina · Private

5.2%acceptance rate
1510–1570SAT middle 50%
34–35ACT middle 50%
$23,422average net price

Duke admitted 5.2% of 55,541 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1510–1570 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 96% of students graduate within six years.

Your chances at Duke

Enter a score to see whether Duke is a reach, target or likely school for you.

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Reach

It admits 5.2% of applicants, so it’s a reach for everyone, even with perfect scores.

A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.

Early decision and early action

Duke offers early decision but didn’t report how many early applicants it admitted.

What admissions weighs

How Duke rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.

Very important

  • Course rigor
  • GPA
  • Recommendations
  • Activities
  • Talent or ability
  • Character

Important

  • Class rank
  • Essay

Considered

  • Test scores
  • Interview
  • First generation
  • Legacy
  • Where you live
  • State residency
  • Volunteering
  • Work experience
  • Showing interest

Not considered

  • Religion

What it costs

Full price with housing is $87,072 a year. After grants, students paid $23,422 on average.

Average price after grants, by family income:

  • $0–30k$3,295
  • $30–48k$242
  • $48–75k$6,901
  • $75–110k$16,487
  • $110k+$54,375

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