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Brown University and Duke University are both private nonprofit institutions — Brown University in Providence, RI and Duke University in Durham, NC. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Providence, RI · Private
Acceptance rate: 5.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,226
Tuition: $71,412/year
Student-faculty ratio: 6.0:1
Graduation rate: 95.7%
Top programs: Social sciences, Computer science, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Providence, RI with published program strength in Social sciences and Computer science.
Durham, NC · Private
Acceptance rate: 5.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 6,442
Tuition: $68,758/year
Student-faculty ratio: 5.0:1
Graduation rate: 96.8%
Top programs: Engineering, Social sciences, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Durham, NC with published program strength in Engineering and Social sciences.
| Factor | Brown University | Duke University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 5.4% | 5.7% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) | 1510–1580 |
| 1500–1570 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 34–35 | 34–35 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 7,226 | 6,442 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $71,412/year | $68,758/year |
| Average net price after aid | $25,184 | $29,612 |
| Graduation rate | 95.7% | 96.8% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $93,487 | $97,800 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 6.0:1 | 5.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Providence, RI | Durham, NC |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Computer science, Biological sciences | Engineering, Social sciences, Biological sciences |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (5.4% vs 5.7%). Brown University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($25,184 vs $29,612). Duke University reports the higher graduation rate (96.8% vs 95.7%). Brown University is the larger undergraduate campus (7,226 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Brown University and Duke University
Brown University has an acceptance rate of 5.4%; Duke University is around 5.7%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Brown University tuition is $71,412/year. Duke University is $68,758/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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