Getting into Duke University is an impressive achievement, as it is one of the most prestigious and selective universities in the U.S. With an acceptance rate of just 7%, Duke admits only the most outstanding students. The university follows a holistic admissions process, considering academic excellence, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, personal essays, and recommendation letters. Although Duke has a test-optional policy, submitting strong standardized test scores—SAT Exam (1520–1570) or ACT Exam (34–35)—can enhance an application. Additionally, a GPA of 3.9–4.5 is crucial for securing admission.

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Did You Know These Facts About Duke University?

1️⃣ Duke’s Gothic Architecture! 🏰 Duke's stunning campus, inspired by European Gothic architecture, features the iconic Duke Chapel, one of the most photographed university buildings in the U.S.
2️⃣ The Cameron Crazies! 🏀 Duke's basketball fans are among the most passionate in the country, turning Cameron Indoor Stadium into one of the toughest arenas for visiting teams.
3️⃣ Top-Ranked Medical Research! 🏥 Duke University’s medical school is consistently ranked among the best in the world, leading groundbreaking research in cancer treatment, neuroscience, and genetics.
4️⃣ A Home for Nobel Laureates! 🏆 Several Duke professors and alumni have won Nobel Prizes for their contributions to physics, chemistry, medicine, and peace efforts.
5️⃣ A Connection to Hollywood! 🎬 Famous Duke alumni include NBA star Kyrie Irving, former Apple CEO Tim Cook, and comedian Ken Jeong.

🚀 Check Admission Requirements of Top US Universities Accepting SAT & ACT!

🚀 Also, Get to Know How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges?

Duke University Admission Requirements

Duke looks for students with exceptional academic records, leadership potential, and meaningful extracurricular involvement. The process of admission is very competitive, and a solid application involves stunning standardized test scores, an enticing personal statement, and stellar letters of recommendation.

Duke looks beyond just numbers—they seek students who demonstrate leadership, passion, and unique contributions to their communities.

Duke SAT Scores

Duke may be test-optional, but let’s be real—submitting a strong SAT score can only help your chances. The Duke average SAT is 1550, with most admitted students scoring between 1520 and 1570. A solid Duke SAT score can make your application stand out!

📌 Read about the SAT Eligibility!

Duke Average SAT Scores for Admitted Students

Scoring high on the SAT can give you a strong edge when applying to Duke. While the university is test-optional, most admitted students have outstanding scores. The Duke average SAT is around 1550, with most students scoring between 1520 and 1570. To give you a better idea, here’s a breakdown of Duke SAT scores, including section-wise percentiles.

Students aiming for Duke should target a score of 1550+ to be competitive. Those scoring below 1520 should ensure their application is strong in other areas, such as extracurriculars and essays.

Duke SAT Score Distribution

If you're aiming for Duke, having a strong SAT score can make a big difference in your application. While Duke is test-optional, most admitted students have impressive scores. Below is the breakdown of Duke SAT scores, including the Duke average SAT and score percentiles.

📌 Know the SAT Syllabus for SAT Sections here!

Duke University Schools That Consider SAT Scores

Many schools within Duke University consider SAT scores as part of their admissions process. While Duke is test-optional, a strong SAT score can enhance your application. Below are the schools at Duke that take SAT scores into account:

• Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
• Pratt School of Engineering
• Nicholas School of the Environment
• Sanford School of Public Policy
• Duke School of Nursing

Duke University ACT Score Requirements

If you're taking the ACT, having Duke ACT Scores between 34 and 35 will make you a strong candidate. Since Duke is highly selective, scoring at the top of this range can give you a competitive edge in the admissions process!

Average Duke University ACT Scores for Admitted Students

A strong ACT score can make a big difference in your Duke University application. The Duke Average ACT Score falls around 35, with most admitted students scoring 34 or higher. Here’s a breakdown of Duke’s ACT score distribution:

Duke superscores the ACT, meaning it considers your highest section scores across multiple test dates.

📌 Read about the ACT Syllabus here!

Duke GPA Requirements

If you're aiming for Duke, a high GPA is super important! Most admitted students have GPAs between 3.9 and 4.5, with many achieving a perfect 4.0 or higher. The higher your GPA, the better your chances of standing out in admissions!

Duke University Average GPA for Admitted Students

If you're aiming for Duke, having a strong GPA is key! The average GPA for admitted students is around 4.2, meaning you’ll need top grades to stay competitive. Check out the Duke GPA requirements below:

Students with slightly lower GPAs should compensate with strong SAT/ACT scores, leadership roles, and exceptional essays.

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Duke Acceptance Rate

With a Duke acceptance rate of just 7%, getting in is no easy feat! Duke is one of the most selective universities in the world, attracting top students with exceptional academics, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.

With this kind of low acceptance rate, only the best students with top applications get selected.

🚀Get to Know the Recent Changes done in the SAT Exam!

Duke University Scholarships

Duke is all about making college affordable! They offer generous financial aid packages and merit-based scholarships, helping students from all backgrounds manage tuition costs. Whether you need aid or earn a scholarship, Duke’s got your back! 

Notable Duke Scholarships:

1. Robertson Scholars Program – Covers full tuition and provides leadership training opportunities.
2. Duke Merit Scholarships – Includes the Trinity Scholarship, Benjamin N. Duke Scholars Program, and Karsh International Scholars Program.
3. Need-Based Financial Aid – Duke meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students.

Over half of Duke students receive some form of financial aid.

🚀Get to Know What Does Test Optional Policy Mean for College Admissions?

Duke University Superscoring Policy

Duke superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they’ll take your highest section scores from different test dates and combine them for the best possible composite score. This gives you a major advantage—you can retake sections to boost your overall score and show off your absolute best performance!

🚀Also Find out What are ACT Writing Score Here!

Conclusion

Duke University is one of the toughest schools to get into, with an acceptance rate of just 7%. If you’re aiming for a spot, you’ll want to bring your A-game. A strong SAT score between 1520 and 1570, an ACT score of 34–35, and a GPA of 3.9 or higher will definitely help. But it’s not just about numbers—Duke looks for students who are more than just great test-takers. They want applicants who show leadership, passion, and a real impact in their communities. So, while top scores can give you an edge, strong essays and standout extracurriculars can make all the difference!

Colleges That Uses SAT Scores

Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.

Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score

Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT