Duke vs Northeastern
How Duke and Northeastern stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Duke | Northeastern | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 4.8% | 5.6% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1510-1570 | 1480-1550 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | NC | MA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $89,350 | $85,856 |
| Average cost after aid | $24,500 | $38,200 |
| Supplemental essays | 2 | 1 |
- Duke is harder to get into than Northeastern (4.8% versus 5.6%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Duke is usually the cheaper option ($24,500 versus $38,200 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- Duke asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), 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.
Duke vs Northeastern FAQ
Is Duke or Northeastern harder to get into?
Duke is harder to get into, admitting about 4.8% of applicants versus 5.6% at Northeastern.
Is Duke or Northeastern cheaper?
After financial aid, Duke is usually cheaper, about $24,500 per year on average versus $38,200 at Northeastern.
See your real chances at Duke and Northeastern.
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