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College Comparison

Duke University vs Wellesley College: 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

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricDukeWellesley
Acceptance Rate6.8%wins13.9%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1510–1570wins1440–1550
ACT Range (25th–75th)34–35wins33–35
Tuition (Out-of-State)$65,805$64,320wins
Avg Net Price$34,454$25,008wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$97,800wins$84,803
Graduation Rate95.8%wins91.2%
Retention Rate96.2%96.3%wins
Student–Faculty Ratio6:1wins7:1
Total Enrollment6,417wins2,318

Verdict

Based on the data above, Duke edges out Wellesley 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

Wellesley Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $64,320
  • Avg Net Price: $25,008
  • Retention Rate: 96.3%

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