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College Comparison

Duke University vs UC Irvine: 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

UC Irvine

Irvine, CA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricDukeUC Irvine
Acceptance Rate6.8%wins25.6%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1570winsN/A
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35N/A
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,805$45,014wins
Avg Net Price$34,454$12,840wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$97,800wins$80,735
Graduation Rate95.8%wins86.0%
Retention Rate96.2%wins93.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins18:1
Total Enrollment6,41729,494wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Duke edges out UC Irvine on 6 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
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $97,800
  • Graduation Rate: 95.8%

UC Irvine Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $45,014
  • Avg Net Price: $12,840
  • Total Enrollment: 29,494

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