Duke University is one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States, known for its rigorous academic environment and highly selective admissions process. With an admission rate of only 6%, Duke's competitive nature is evident. Applicants face steep odds, highlighting the university's status as a sought-after destination for high-achieving students.
The university offers an Early Decision program, which is a binding option for students certain that Duke is their first choice. This pathway can potentially increase an applicant's chance of acceptance, signaling a strong commitment to attending Duke. However, the university does not offer an Early Action program, which allows students to apply early without commitment.
Regarding standardized testing, Duke does not currently require SAT or ACT scores for admissions, reflecting a trend among top universities to emphasize a holistic review process. However, students who wish to submit their scores can still do so, and there are recommended scores of 1500 for the SAT and 35 for the ACT, which can enhance a student's application.
Recommended Score: 1500
| Score Type | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score | 1470 | 1570 |
| Reading | 720 | 770 |
| Math | 750 | 800 |
Duke University's recommended SAT score is a composite of 1500, but the range of scores typically admitted spans from 1470 to 1570. This range places Duke's admitted students among the top percentile nationally, indicating the high caliber of its applicant pool.
Breaking down the SAT score components, we see that Duke's 25th percentile score for the Critical Reading section is 720, with the 75th percentile at 770. These scores suggest that nearly three-quarters of Duke's admitted students score above 720, showcasing strong reading and analytical skills.
For the SAT Math section, admitted students have scores ranging from 750 at the 25th percentile to 800 at the 75th percentile. This demonstrates exceptionally high mathematical aptitude, as a score of 800 represents a perfect score, achieved by the top quarter of Duke's admitted students.
Given the competitive SAT scores, prospective students should aim for the upper end of these ranges to strengthen their application. High scores in both sections can signify a student's readiness to handle the academic rigors of Duke University.
Overall, while SAT scores are not mandatory, achieving or exceeding the 75th percentile scores can significantly bolster an applicant's chances. These statistics not only reflect the academic excellence expected at Duke but also help applicants gauge how their SAT scores might stand in a highly competitive pool.
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Take a free practice testRecommended Score: 35
| Score Type | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Composite | 33 | 35 |
| English | 34 | 36 |
| Math | 32 | 35 |
| Writing | 8 | 10 |
For the ACT, Duke University's recommended score is 35, aligning with its high admissions standards. The typical ACT composite scores for admitted students range from 33 at the 25th percentile to 35 at the 75th percentile.
In the English section of the ACT, admitted students typically score between 34 (25th percentile) and 36 (75th percentile). A score of 36 indicates nearly perfect mastery of English conventions and comprehension, highlighting the importance Duke places on communication skills.
ACT Math scores among Duke's admits show a range from 32 at the 25th percentile to 35 at the 75th percentile. These scores reflect strong quantitative skills necessary for the diverse academic challenges presented at Duke.
The ACT Writing scores, often overlooked, also tell a compelling story, with Duke's admitted students scoring between 8 and 10. This range suggests that successful applicants can articulate complex ideas effectively, a crucial skill for academic success at Duke.
Like the SAT, high ACT scores, especially those reaching or exceeding the 75th percentile, are indicative of a candidate's strong academic foundation. Achieving these scores can play a pivotal role in making a compelling case for admission to Duke.
Overall Rating: Extremely Competitive
Here are the applicant and admissions numbers per year for Duke University:
Total Applicants: 49703
Acceptance Rate: 6%
Duke University's admission process remains one of the most competitive in the nation, as evidenced by its 6% admission rate and high standardized test score ranges. Both the SAT and ACT scores of admitted students reflect a cohort of individuals who are not only academically exceptional but also capable of contributing to a dynamic and challenging educational environment.
The detailed breakdown of SAT and ACT scores highlights the academic excellence Duke seeks in its applicants. As the university moves forward with a holistic admissions process, high test scores, although not mandatory, continue to be a significant advantage for prospective students aiming to join this elite institution.