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Duke University and Vanderbilt University are both private nonprofit institutions — Duke University in Durham, NC and Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. 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.
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.
Nashville, TN · Private
Acceptance rate: 5.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,208
Tuition: $67,498/year
Student-faculty ratio: 8.0:1
Graduation rate: 93.5%
Top programs: Social sciences, Engineering, Computer science
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Nashville, TN with published program strength in Social sciences and Engineering.
| Factor | Duke University | Vanderbilt University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 5.7% | 5.9% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) | 1500–1570 |
| 1500–1570 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 34–35 | 34–35 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 6,442 | 7,208 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $68,758/year | $67,498/year |
| Average net price after aid | $29,612 | $15,846 |
| Graduation rate | 96.8% | 93.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $97,800 | $91,565 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 5.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Durham, NC | Nashville, TN |
| Largest program areas | Engineering, Social sciences, Biological sciences | Social sciences, Engineering, Computer science |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (5.7% vs 5.9%). Vanderbilt University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,846 vs $29,612). Duke University reports the higher graduation rate (96.8% vs 93.5%). Vanderbilt University is the larger undergraduate campus (7,208 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.
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Common questions when choosing between Duke University and Vanderbilt University
Duke University has an acceptance rate of 5.7%; Vanderbilt University is around 5.9%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Duke University tuition is $68,758/year. Vanderbilt University is $67,498/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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