College Comparison
Duke University vs Vanderbilt 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
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Duke | Vanderbilt |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 6.8% | 6.3%wins |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1510–1570 | 1510–1560 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–35 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,805 | $63,946wins |
| Avg Net Price | $34,454 | $19,040wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $97,800wins | $91,565 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.8%wins | 92.7% |
| Retention Rate | 96.2% | 96.4%wins |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 7:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 6,417 | 7,143wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Vanderbilt 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.
Duke Strengths
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $97,800
- ✓Graduation Rate: 95.8%
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Vanderbilt Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 6.3%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $63,946
- ✓Avg Net Price: $19,040
- ✓Retention Rate: 96.4%
Want a deeper comparison?
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