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College Comparison

Duke University vs Boston College: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Duke University

Durham, NC

School

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricDukeBoston College
Acceptance Rate6.8%wins15.7%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1570wins1430–1540
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins33–34
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,805wins$67,680
Avg Net Price$34,454wins$39,866
Median Earnings (10 yr)$97,800$103,937wins
Graduation Rate95.8%wins91.0%
Retention Rate96.2%wins95.4%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins13:1
Total Enrollment6,4179,865wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Duke edges out Boston College on 8 of 10 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.

Duke Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 6.8%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1570
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 34–35
  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $65,805

Boston College Strengths

  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $103,937
  • Total Enrollment: 9,865

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