How to Get Into Duke University
Complete guide to admission requirements, essays, deadlines, and tips for success
Quick Overview
Duke University is one of the most selective universities in the United States, with an acceptance rate of 6.2%. Founded in 1838, the university is located in Durham, North Carolina and currently enrolls ~6,800 undergraduates.
Getting into Duke University requires exceptional academic performance, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and compelling essays that demonstrate your unique perspective and potential for contribution to the university community.
Academic Requirements
GPA Requirements
Most successful applicants have a GPA in this range or higher
Test Scores
Remember: While these statistics provide guidance, Duke University uses holistic admissions. Strong essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars can significantly impact your application.
Application Essays
Key Essay Prompts:
- "What is your sense of Duke as a university and a community, and why do you consider it a good match for you?"
Essay Tips: Focus on authenticity and specific examples. Show, don't tell your story. Connect your experiences to your potential contributions at Duke University.
Application Deadlines
Tips for Success
- Emphasize leadership, service, and making a positive impact
- Show interest in Duke's collaborative and interdisciplinary approach
- Highlight athletic, artistic, or entrepreneurial achievements
- Demonstrate school spirit and community engagement
- Connect your goals to specific Duke programs or opportunities
- Show how you'll contribute to Duke's dynamic campus culture
What Makes a Strong Applicant
Quick Links
Popular Majors
- Economics
- Public Policy
- Biology
- Psychology
- Engineering
Notable Alumni
- Melinda Gates (Philanthropist)
- Richard Nixon (US President)
- Tim Cook (Apple CEO)
- Charlie Rose (Television host)
- Grant Hill (NBA player)
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Start Your JourneyFrequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Duke University?
Duke University has an acceptance rate of 6.2%, making it one of the most selective universities in the United States. This means that for every 100 applications, only about 6 are accepted.
What GPA do you need for Duke University?
Most successful applicants to Duke University have a 4.0+ (weighted). However, Duke University uses holistic admissions, meaning they consider all aspects of your application including essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations.
What SAT scores do you need for Duke University?
The middle 50% SAT range for Duke University is 1450-1570. The university is currently test-optional, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit test scores.
When are Duke University application deadlines?
Application deadlines for Duke University are: Early Decision: November 1, Early Action: November 1, Regular Decision: January 2. Make sure to submit all materials before these dates.
What makes a strong applicant to Duke University?
Strong Duke University applicants typically demonstrate strong leadership and service orientation, academic excellence with diverse interests, athletic, artistic, or entrepreneurial achievements, among other qualities. The university values students who will contribute meaningfully to their community.