College Comparison
Duke University vs Rice 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
Rice University
Houston, TX
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Duke | Rice |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 6.8%wins | 7.9% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1570wins | 1500–1570 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–36 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,805 | $58,128wins |
| Avg Net Price | $34,454 | $12,640wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $97,800wins | $89,718 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.8%wins | 95.7% |
| Retention Rate | 96.2% | 97.6%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1 | 6:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 6,417wins | 4,562 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Duke edges out Rice 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.
Duke Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 6.8%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1570
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $97,800
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.8%
Rice Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $58,128
- ✓Avg Net Price: $12,640
- ✓Retention Rate: 97.6%
Want a deeper comparison?
Our interactive compare tool lets you add more schools, filter by major, and see financial aid breakdowns by income level.