College Comparison
Duke University vs Northwestern University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Durham, NC
Evanston, IL
Total Enrollment
17,499
23,856
Undergrad Enrollment
6,523
9,399
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
5.7%
7.7%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1500–1570
1510–1570
ACT Range
34–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$75
Total Applicants
51,795
49,474
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,563
$83,517
Avg Net Price
$34,454
$27,143
Tuition (In-State)
$60,435
$62,391
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,435
$62,391
Room & Board
$18,128
$21,126
% Receiving Aid
43.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$65,522
$64,429
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
87.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$97,800
$89,363
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Explore by Location
Duke is in Durham, NC
Northwestern is in Evanston, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Duke University is $34,454 per year, compared to $27,143 at Northwestern University. Northwestern University is $7,311 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Duke University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Northwestern University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Duke University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Northwestern University has a graduation rate of 96%. Northwestern University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Duke University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Northwestern University has a ratio of 6:1. Duke University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Duke University, 43% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $65,522. At Northwestern University, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,429.
The median earnings for Duke University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $97,800, compared to $89,363 for Northwestern University graduates. Graduates from Duke University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Duke University is located in Durham, NC in a city: large setting. Northwestern University is located in Evanston, IL in a city: small setting.

