A straight answer: 5.7% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 6 actually get in. No guessing. Duke University is a UNIV institution located in Durham, NC — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose Duke University. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
Is Duke University Hard to Get Into?
Understanding the Acceptance Rate
“How hard is Duke University to get into?” is one of the most common questions students ask—and the acceptance rate is usually where they look for answers. But acceptance rates alone don’t tell the full story of admissions difficulty.
The Duke University acceptance rate of 5.7% represents overall outcomes across all applicants. That includes students with different academic strengths, intended majors, and application strategies. For individual applicants, the reality is more nuanced.
Acceptance Rate Is an Average, Not a Prediction
Acceptance rates summarize past admissions cycles, not future decisions. They don’t account for changes in applicant behavior, shifts in program demand, or how competitive a specific applicant pool may be in a given year.
At Duke University, admissions outcomes can vary widely depending on where an applicant fits within the broader pool. Students applying with focused academic goals and strong preparation often face a very different experience than those applying more generally.
What Matters More Than the Number
While acceptance rate helps frame expectations, it doesn’t measure readiness or fit. Universities evaluate students based on how well their background aligns with institutional goals, academic offerings, and long-term outcomes.
Instead of asking whether the acceptance rate at Duke University is “good” or “bad,” applicants should focus on whether their academic path makes sense for the school. That perspective leads to better decisions—and usually, better results.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into Duke University
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at Duke University based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherUsing Admissions Data to Make Smarter College Choices
College admissions data is most valuable when it informs decisions—not when it creates anxiety. For students evaluating Duke University, the goal should be clarity, not certainty.
Admissions outcomes are shaped by many variables, including applicant behavior, program demand, and institutional priorities. That’s why the same university can feel accessible to one student and competitive to another.
A Practical Way to Interpret What You’ve Learned
Instead of focusing on whether you will get in, focus on whether applying makes sense. Does your academic background align with the programs you’re interested in? Are you comfortable with the level of competition? Does the university fit your long-term goals?
When admissions data is used this way, it becomes empowering. It helps students make informed choices, approach applications strategically, and move forward with confidence—regardless of outcome.
Should You Apply to Duke University?
If 5.7% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore Duke University
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About Duke University Acceptance Rate
What is Duke's test-optional policy?
Duke's current test policy is unknown; it's advisable to check specific admissions requirements for the latest updates regarding standardized testing.
How much financial aid does Duke offer?
Duke University offers significant financial aid packages based on need, including grants and scholarships aimed at making education more accessible for students from diverse backgrounds.
What is the average class size at Duke?
Classes at Duke typically have an average size of around 20 students, fostering an intimate classroom environment despite being a larger university.
Is Duke a good school for pre-med?
Yes, Duke is well-regarded for its pre-med program, offering strong advising, research opportunities, and access to healthcare resources essential for aspiring medical students.
What is student life like at Duke?
Student life at Duke is vibrant, characterized by a mix of rigorous academics, diverse extracurricular activities, and a strong sense of community among students.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
Duke University isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
Everything you need to maximize your college application success