Brown vs Duke
How Brown and Duke stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Brown | Duke | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 5.65% | 4.8% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1480-1560 | 1510-1570 |
| Testing policy | Required | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | RI | NC |
| Sticker price (per year) | $89,028 | $89,350 |
| Average cost after aid | $26,000 | $24,500 |
| Supplemental essays | 4 | 2 |
- Duke is harder to get into than Brown (4.8% versus 5.65%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Duke is usually the cheaper option ($24,500 versus $26,000 per year on average).
- On testing, Brown requires SAT or ACT scores while Duke is test-optional.
- Brown asks for more supplemental writing (4 essays versus 2), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Brown vs Duke FAQ
Is Brown or Duke harder to get into?
Duke is harder to get into, admitting about 4.8% of applicants versus 5.65% at Brown.
Is Brown or Duke cheaper?
After financial aid, Duke is usually cheaper, about $24,500 per year on average versus $26,000 at Brown.
See your real chances at Brown and Duke.
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