College Comparison
Duke University vs Vanderbilt 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
Nashville, TN
Total Enrollment
17,499
13,575
Undergrad Enrollment
6,523
7,221
Student-Faculty Ratio
5:1
8:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
5.7%
5.9%
Average GPA
4.00
3.93
SAT Range
1500–1570
1500–1570
ACT Range
34–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$85
$50
Total Applicants
51,795
45,409
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$78,563
$80,184
Avg Net Price
$34,454
$19,040
Tuition (In-State)
$60,435
$58,130
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,435
$58,130
Room & Board
$18,128
$22,054
% Receiving Aid
43.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$65,522
$64,404
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
96.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
98.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$97,800
$91,565
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Explore by Location
Duke is in Durham, NC
Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Duke University is $34,454 per year, compared to $19,040 at Vanderbilt University. Vanderbilt University is $15,414 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Duke University typically score between 1500-1570 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Vanderbilt University, the typical SAT range is 1500-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Duke University has a graduation rate of 96%, while Vanderbilt University has a graduation rate of 94%. 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 Vanderbilt University has a ratio of 8:1. 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 Vanderbilt University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $64,404.
The median earnings for Duke University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $97,800, compared to $91,565 for Vanderbilt 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. Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN in a city: large setting.

