College Comparison
California Institute of Technology vs Duke University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Pasadena, CA
Durham, NC
Total Enrollment
2,430
17,499
Undergrad Enrollment
987
6,523
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
2.6%
5.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1530–1580
1500–1570
ACT Range
35–36
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$85
Total Applicants
13,856
51,795
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,762
$78,563
Avg Net Price
$18,902
$34,454
Tuition (In-State)
$58,479
$60,435
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$58,479
$60,435
Room & Board
$20,283
$18,128
% Receiving Aid
53.0%
43.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$72,373
$65,522
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
87.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$128,566
$97,800
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California Institute of Technology is in Pasadena, CA
Duke is in Durham, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Caltech is $18,902 per year, compared to $34,454 at Duke University. Caltech is $15,552 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Caltech typically score between 1530-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Duke University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Caltech has a graduation rate of 94%, while Duke University has a graduation rate of 96%. Duke University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Caltech has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Duke University has a ratio of 5:1. Caltech offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Caltech, 53% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $72,373. At Duke University, 43% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,522.
The median earnings for Caltech graduates 10 years after enrollment is $128,566, compared to $97,800 for Duke University graduates. Graduates from Caltech tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Caltech is located in Pasadena, CA in a city: midsize setting. Duke University is located in Durham, NC in a city: large setting.