College Comparison
Duke University vs Northwestern 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
Duke University
Durham, NC
School
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Duke | Northwestern |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 6.8%wins | 7.1% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1570wins | 1490–1560 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35wins | 33–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,805wins | $65,997 |
| Avg Net Price | $34,454 | $27,143wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $97,800wins | $89,363 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.8% | 95.9%wins |
| Retention Rate | 96.2% | 97.4%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1 | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 6,417 | 8,960wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Duke edges out Northwestern on 5 of 9 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
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓Avg Net Price: $27,143
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.9%
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.4%
- ✓Total Enrollment: 8,960
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