College Comparison
Columbia University vs Duke University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Columbia University
New York, NY
School
Duke University
Durham, NC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Columbia | Duke |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 4.2%wins | 6.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1570 | 1510–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $69,045 | $65,805wins |
| Avg Net Price | $20,148wins | $34,454 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $102,491wins | $97,800 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.0% | 95.8%wins |
| Retention Rate | 97.2%wins | 96.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1 | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,899wins | 6,417 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Columbia edges out Duke on 5 of 8 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Columbia Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 4.2%
- ✓Avg Net Price: $20,148
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $102,491
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.2%
Duke Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1570
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $65,805
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.8%
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