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College Comparison

Duke University vs Virginia Tech: 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

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricDukeVirginia Tech
Acceptance Rate6.8%wins57.0%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1570wins1240–1420
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins27–32
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,805$36,694wins
Avg Net Price$34,454$23,790wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$97,800wins$81,698
Graduation Rate95.8%wins86.3%
Retention Rate96.2%wins91.8%
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins17:1
Total Enrollment6,41730,435wins

Verdict

Based on the data above, Duke edges out Virginia Tech on 7 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
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $97,800

Virginia Tech Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $36,694
  • Avg Net Price: $23,790
  • Total Enrollment: 30,435

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