College comparison

Duke University vs Harvard University

A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.

Quick answers

Is Duke University or Harvard University harder to get into?

Harvard University is more selective: Duke University's acceptance rate is approximately 6% and Harvard University's is approximately 4% (estimates from public and primary sources).

What SAT score do you need for Duke University vs Harvard University?

The middle-50% SAT range is 1500–1570 at Duke University and 1510–1580 at Harvard University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.

Which is cheaper, Duke University or Harvard University?

Harvard University has the lower average net price after aid: $29,612 at Duke University vs $19,066 at Harvard University. Actual cost varies with financial aid and residency.

Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.

These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.