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College Comparison

Cornell University vs Duke University

Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.

Cornell University
#21
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Private
Duke University
#6
Duke University
Durham, NC
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Ithaca, NY

Durham, NC

Total Enrollment

26,793

17,499

Undergrad Enrollment

16,128

6,523

Student-Faculty Ratio

9:1

5:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

8.8%

5.7%

Average GPA

4.00

4.00

SAT Range

1500–1570

1500–1570

ACT Range

33–35

34–35

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$80

$85

Total Applicants

62,993

51,795


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$81,884

$78,563

Avg Net Price

$32,337

$34,454

Tuition (In-State)

$62,456

$60,435

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$62,456

$60,435

Room & Board

$19,428

$18,128

% Receiving Aid

48.0%

43.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$61,779

$65,522


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

96.0%

96.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

91.0%

90.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

98.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$104,043

$97,800

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Cornell is in Ithaca, NY

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Frequently Asked Questions

Cornell University has an acceptance rate of 9%, while Duke University has an acceptance rate of 6%. This means Duke University is more selective than Cornell University.

The average net price at Cornell University is $32,337 per year, compared to $34,454 at Duke University. Cornell University is $2,117 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Cornell University typically score between 1500-1570 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.

Cornell University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Duke University has a graduation rate of 96%. Duke University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Cornell University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Duke University has a ratio of 5:1. Duke University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.

At Cornell University, 48% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,779. At Duke University, 43% of students receive aid with an average grant of $65,522.

The median earnings for Cornell University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $104,043, compared to $97,800 for Duke University graduates. Graduates from Cornell University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.

Cornell University is located in Ithaca, NY in a city: small setting. Duke University is located in Durham, NC in a city: large setting.