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College Comparison

Duke University vs Vanderbilt University

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

Duke University
#6
Duke University
Durham, NC
Private
Vanderbilt University
#19
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Private
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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Vanderbilt is in Nashville, TN

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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.