Duke University

Duke University's tuition for the 2024-25 academic year is $66,326, with a total cost of $88,938 for tuition, fees, housing, and meals. Approximately 50% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid, with the average need-based grant awarded in 2023-2024 being $63,590. Duke is committed to a need-blind admission policy for U.S. applicants, ensuring that admission decisions are made without considering a family's ability to pay.

Admission to Duke is highly selective, with an overall acceptance rate of around 5%. The university looks for students with intellectual curiosity, character, and a desire to make an impact. Duke has been test-optional in recent cycles, but strong scores can still help if submitted.

Duke offers a collaborative academic culture with world-class programs across Trinity College of Arts & Sciences and the Pratt School of Engineering. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary work and provides opportunities for students to design their own majors through Program II and IDEAS. Duke also has a global presence through Duke Kunshan University, which blends American-style liberal arts education with Chinese traditions.

Duke is known for its high graduation rate, with about 95% of students graduating within four years. The university's strong reputation leads to excellent career opportunities for graduates. Duke alumni can be found heading Fortune 500 companies and achieving success in various fields.

Duke offers a vibrant campus life with over 400 student organizations, promoting a strong sense of community and encouraging students to explore their passions outside the classroom. While Greek life is present, with about 37% of undergraduates participating in fraternities and sororities, the university provides a wealth of other opportunities for involvement and socialization. Duke's athletic teams, especially the men's basketball program, contribute to a strong school spirit.

Duke University Police Department provides comprehensive law enforcement services 24 hours daily. The university actively works on safety initiatives with the city of Durham, including enhanced security features in off-campus apartment complexes and expanded transportation services. Students are encouraged to download Duke's safety app, LiveSafe, and sign up for DukeALERT, the university's emergency notification system.

Duke offers various honors opportunities, including the Trinity Summer Undergraduate Mentored Research (T-SUMR) Fellowship and the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF). These programs provide students with immersive research experiences and the chance to work with faculty mentors. Duke also offers merit-based scholarships, such as the Angier B. Duke Memorial Scholarship and the Benjamin N. Duke Scholarship, for academic excellence and community service.

Duke welcomes international students from around the world, with China, India, and South Korea being the top home countries for international undergraduates. The university offers visa support and resources to help international students adjust to campus life. Duke Kunshan University provides a unique opportunity for international students to experience a blend of American and Chinese education.