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College Comparison

Duke University vs Southern Methodist University

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

Duke University
#6
Duke University
Durham, NC
Private
Southern Methodist University
#59
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Durham, NC

Dallas, TX

Total Enrollment

17,499

12,116

Undergrad Enrollment

6,523

7,285

Student-Faculty Ratio

5:1

11:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

5.7%

63.4%

Average GPA

4.00

3.66

SAT Range

1500–1570

1340–1490

ACT Range

34–35

30–34

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$85

$60

Total Applicants

51,795

15,245


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$78,563

$74,076

Avg Net Price

$34,454

$41,778

Tuition (In-State)

$60,435

$55,012

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$60,435

$55,012

Room & Board

$18,128

$19,064

% Receiving Aid

43.0%

67.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$65,522

$37,520


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

96.0%

82.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

90.0%

75.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

91.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$97,800

$78,354

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Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX

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Frequently Asked Questions

Duke University has an acceptance rate of 6%, while Southern Methodist University has an acceptance rate of 63%. This means Duke University is more selective than Southern Methodist University.

The average net price at Duke University is $34,454 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Duke University is $7,324 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Duke University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

Duke University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. Duke University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.

Duke University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.

The median earnings for Duke University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $97,800, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist 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. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.