Duke University vs Vanderbilt University

Duke University is the more selective of the two at 6%, versus 6% at Vanderbilt University. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Duke University
Most selective
6%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1570
Private · North Carolina
Vanderbilt University
Most selective
6%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1560
Private · Tennessee

Duke University vs Vanderbilt University: the differences that matter

How Duke University and Vanderbilt University stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Duke University and Vanderbilt University are almost equally selective (6% vs 6%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Duke University leans more on alumni / legacy relation, geographical residence, while Vanderbilt University puts more weight on class rank, standardized test scores, level of applicant interest. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Duke University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1570 and Vanderbilt University's is around 1560. Admitted students at Duke University post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorDuke UniversityVanderbilt University
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankconsideredimportant
Standardized test scoresimportantvery important
Application essayvery importantvery important
Recommendationsvery importantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesvery importantvery important
Talent / abilityvery importantvery important
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Duke University or Vanderbilt University harder to get into?

Duke University is harder to get into, with a 6% acceptance rate versus 6% at Vanderbilt University.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Duke University and Vanderbilt University?

Duke University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1570, and Vanderbilt University's is around 1560.

What are my chances at Duke University and Vanderbilt University?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.