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College Comparison

Duke University vs Stanford University

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

Duke University
#6
Duke University
Durham, NC
Private
Stanford University
#3
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Private
At a Glance

Type

Private

Private

Location

Durham, NC

Stanford, CA

Total Enrollment

17,499

18,625

Undergrad Enrollment

6,523

7,904

Student-Faculty Ratio

5:1

6:1


Admissions

Acceptance Rate

5.7%

3.6%

Average GPA

4.00

3.96

SAT Range

1500–1570

1510–1580

ACT Range

34–35

34–35

Test Policy

Optional

Optional

Application Fee

$85

$90

Total Applicants

51,795

57,326


Cost & Value

Sticker Price

$78,563

$79,018

Avg Net Price

$34,454

$26,000

Tuition (In-State)

$60,435

$57,693

Tuition (Out-of-State)

$60,435

$57,693

Room & Board

$18,128

$21,325

% Receiving Aid

43.0%

61.0%

Avg Grant Amount

$65,522

$62,755


Outcomes

6-Year Grad Rate

96.0%

96.0%

4-Year Grad Rate

90.0%

78.0%

Retention Rate

98.0%

98.0%

Median Earnings (10yr)

$97,800

$124,080

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Stanford is in Stanford, CA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Duke University has an acceptance rate of 6%, while Stanford University has an acceptance rate of 4%. This means Stanford University is more selective than Duke University.

The average net price at Duke University is $34,454 per year, compared to $26,000 at Stanford University. Stanford University is $8,454 less expensive on average after financial aid.

Admitted students at Duke University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Stanford University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.

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

Duke University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, while Stanford 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 Stanford University, 61% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,755.

The median earnings for Duke University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $97,800, compared to $124,080 for Stanford University graduates. Graduates from Stanford 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. Stanford University is located in Stanford, CA in a suburb: large setting.