Loading…

UNITED STATES · DURHAM

Duke University

private · Founded 1838 · Languages: en

In short

Duke University is a private research university in Durham, North Carolina, known for its strong academics, vibrant campus life, and commitment to accessible education. It meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for undergraduates and offers extensive research and interdisciplinary opportunities.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1838
Students: 16,600
International students: 3,700
Acceptance rate: 6%
Tuition (intl): €57–57k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Durham, United States

Duke University is a private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and competitive athletics, Duke fosters an environment of intellectual exploration, innovation, and community engagement. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students and faculty to work across traditional boundaries to address complex global challenges. With a commitment to accessible education, Duke meets the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted undergraduate students, ensuring that a Duke education is affordable for talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. The university's approach to admissions is holistic, considering not just academic achievements but also applicants' creativity, humanity, enthusiasm, and contributions to their communities. Duke is a hub for high-impact research, transforming knowledge into real-world solutions. Students have numerous opportunities to engage in faculty-mentored research, community service, and entrepreneurial ventures. The university's strategic vision focuses on empowering bold thinkers, transforming teaching and learning, strengthening campus community, partnering with purpose, and engaging a global network.

Why study here

Interdisciplinary approach to academics and research, allowing students to merge disciplines and design individualized programs of study.
Strong emphasis on research, with over half of undergraduates participating in faculty-mentored projects and numerous opportunities for graduate research and funding.
Comprehensive financial aid that meets full demonstrated need for all admitted undergraduates, making education accessible.
Vibrant campus life with diverse student organizations, traditions like 'Bricks to Stone,' and state-of-the-art dining facilities.
Exceptional career outcomes, with a high employment rate for graduates and dedicated career services.

Student life

Campus life at Duke is vibrant and dynamic, offering countless opportunities for personal growth and community engagement. Residential halls are designed as thriving communities, supporting students as they explore new interests and build lasting friendships. The 'Bricks to Stone' tradition symbolizes the transition of first-year students to West Campus, integrating them into residential quads. Duke's library system provides extensive resources for scholarship, research, and study. Dining at Duke is a top-tier collegiate program, focusing on sustainability, allergen-free options, and diverse culinary experiences, including cooking classes with award-winning chefs. Arts and culture are integral to campus life, with performances, exhibitions, and installations by students and visiting artists. The university also boasts a rich athletic tradition, with 27 varsity teams and a strong 'Blue Devil' pride among students and alumni.

Fees

InternationalDuke meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted undergraduate students, regardless of citizenship. Financial aid packages may include work study, student loans (up to $5,000 per year), and grants/scholarships that do not require repayment. For graduate programs, specific tuition and fees apply, with information available for MS and MEng degrees.

Home—

LivingLiving expenses are considered in financial aid packages.

For students from North and South Carolina with family incomes below $150,000, full tuition grants are provided. For students with family incomes of $65,000 or less, full tuition grants plus housing, meals, and other expenses are covered without student loans.

Admissions

Application Platforms (First-Year)Common Application or QuestBridge Application

Application Platforms (Transfer)Duke Transfer Application or Coalition, powered by Scoir

Academic TranscriptsHigh School Transcript, First Quarter Grades (for Early Decision)

RecommendationsSecondary School Report with Counselor Recommendation, Two Teacher Recommendations

Standardized TestsSAT and/or ACT scores are optional. Last day to take standardized tests: November 8 for SAT (Early Decision), October 18 for ACT (Early Decision).

EssaysRequired

Application FeeRequired

InterviewsOptional

SupplementsArts Supplement (optional)

Graduate Engineering ProgramsOfficial transcript (BS degree or equivalent in engineering/science), GRE optional, three letters of recommendation, written statement of purpose, TOEFL/IELTS score (if applicable) or waiver.

TOEFLMinimum scores defined by Duke Graduate School

IELTSMinimum scores defined by Duke Graduate School (less commonly submitted)

Rankings

U.S. News & World Report#7 Best University in the United States

U.S. News & World Report#11 Most Innovative University in the U.S.

U.S. News & World Report#6 Graduate Biomedical Engineering Program

U.S. News & World ReportTop 20 ECE Graduate Programs

University scholarships

Black Church Studies and Latinx Studies Fellowships—

Lipe Leadership Fellowship—

Accreditation

Duke University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Duke Lemur Center (DLC) is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and AAALAC International. It is the only organization in the world to hold both accreditations, reflecting its commitment to high standards of animal welfare, health, nutrition, and scientific research.

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,420/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Duke University · United States

AI for Materials Graduate Certificate

This graduate certificate program focuses on the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Materials Science. It aims to equip students with the necessary skills to leverage AI and data science approaches for discovering and designing new materials. The program emphasizes rigorous interdisciplinary study, allowing students to confront complex materials design challenges and contribute to advancements in areas like energy systems, infrastructure, and healthcare. Graduates will be proficient in both materials fundamentals and data science principles, prepared to drive innovation in this rapidly evolving field.

Duke University · United States

Certificate in Decision Sciences

The Decision Sciences Certificate is designed for undergraduate students interested in understanding how people make choices in various contexts, including economic, political, and social situations. It offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining concepts from behavioral economics, game theory, machine learning, and neuroeconomics. This program aims to enhance your ability to communicate and collaborate across different academic fields, fostering a broader perspective for research beyond a single major.

Duke University · United States

Cognitive Neuroscience Admitting Program (CNAP)

The Cognitive Neuroscience Admitting Program (CNAP) at Duke University is an interdisciplinary graduate program administered by the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences (DIBS). It offers neuroscience graduate students a unique educational experience across multiple departments, guided by distinguished faculty. The program's mission is to train students from diverse backgrounds in innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to studying brain function and applying discoveries to societal and health challenges. CNAP prepares future leaders in neuroscience research and education through a flexible training model.

Duke University · United States

Computational Media Major and Minor

The Computational Media program at Duke University offers an interdepartmental major and minor designed for students interested in the intersection of art, computation, and culture. This program combines theoretical and critical engagement with computational media with a strong foundation in computer science principles and hands-on practice. It is ideal for students pursuing interests in areas such as digital humanities, algorithmic arts, user interface design, game studies, digital storytelling, data visualization, and media ethics.

Duke University · United States

Finance, M.S. in Quantitative and Computational Finance

The Master of Science in Quantitative and Computational Finance (MSQF) program at Duke University is a rigorous, 24-month master's degree designed to prepare students for careers in the quantitative finance industry. The program offers a deep dive into financial theory, quantitative methods, and computational tools essential for roles in investment banking, asset management, hedge funds, and other financial institutions. It combines a strong theoretical foundation with practical application, equipping graduates with the skills needed to excel in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Duke University · United States

M.S. in Quantitative Financial Economics

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Quantitative Financial Economics program, managed by the Duke Financial Economics Center (DFE) in the Department of Economics, is designed to equip students with advanced quantitative skills in financial economics. The program prepares graduates for doctoral studies or careers in finance and related quantitative fields. The curriculum focuses on sophisticated analytical tools, providing students with a distinct advantage for Ph.D. programs and roles in quantitative financial analysis. Classes are typically small, allowing for individual faculty attention, and students can engage in research through workshops and collaborations with scholars across the Economics department and the Fuqua School of Business.

Scholarships

for United States

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Duke University

Karsh International Scholarship Program

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.

University of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)

University of Miami Stamps Scholarship

Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

Does Duke University offer financial aid for international students?

Yes, Duke University meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted undergraduate students, regardless of citizenship. Financial aid packages can include work-study, student loans, and grants or scholarships that do not require repayment. Living expenses are also considered in these aid packages.

What is Duke University's approach to admissions?

Duke University practices holistic admissions, evaluating applicants based on academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, creativity, humanity, enthusiasm, and community involvement. The university seeks to understand the whole person and their potential contributions to the Duke community.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

For international applicants, Duke University accepts TOEFL scores, with minimum scores defined by the Duke Graduate School. IELTS scores are also accepted, though less commonly submitted.

What research opportunities are available for students at Duke?

Duke University is a hub for high-impact research, with over half of undergraduates participating in faculty-mentored projects. Students have numerous opportunities to engage in research, community service, and entrepreneurial ventures.

What are the rankings of Duke University?

Duke University is ranked #7 for Best University in the United States and #11 Most Innovative University in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, its Graduate Biomedical Engineering Program is ranked #6, and its ECE Graduate Programs are among the Top 20.

Last updated 3 July 2026