College Comparison
Harvard University vs Duke 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
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
School
Duke University
Durham, NC
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Harvard | Duke |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 3.5%wins | 6.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1500–1580 | 1510–1570wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 34–36 | 34–35 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $59,076wins | $65,805 |
| Avg Net Price | $16,816wins | $34,454 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $101,817wins | $97,800 |
| Graduation Rate | 97.3%wins | 95.8% |
| Retention Rate | 98.6%wins | 96.2% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 7:1 | 6:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 7,755wins | 6,417 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Harvard edges out Duke on 7 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.
Harvard Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 3.5%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $59,076
- ✓Avg Net Price: $16,816
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $101,817
Duke Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1510–1570
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 6:1
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