Duke University

Founded in 1838, Duke University is a private research university renowned for its academic excellence and research prowess. With an acceptance rate of only 6%, admission to Duke is highly competitive, attracting top students from around the world. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including over 50 undergraduate majors and numerous graduate programs through esteemed schools like the Fuqua School of Business, the School of Medicine, the School of Law, the Pratt School of Engineering, and the School of Nursing. 

Notably, the Pratt School of Engineering consistently ranks among the top 50 in the nation making it an excellent institution.

Duke University Key Highlights

Duke University was established in 1838 and since then it has been one of the top universities in the world. The university boasts of an impressive 93.4% placement record within six months of graduation. With a focus on academic excellence, the university offers courses designed with the idea of building a core foundation for all the subjects. 

Not only this, Duke University has a balanced 50:50 male-to-female ratio. Duke's exceptional student-to-faculty ratio of 8:1 fosters a personalised learning environment.

Duke University Ranking

Duke University has gained recognition for its exceptional academic programs, faculty, and research opportunities. While rankings shouldn't be the sole factor in choosing a university, they offer an idea of the university’s commitment to excellence and academic programmes.

Duke University Scholarships 

Duke University has made education accessible through a variety of scholarships. These scholarships are offered based on academic excellence, financial need, and diverse talents to reduce the financial burden for deserving students. Scholarships offered by Duke University cover a range of expenses, including tuition, fees, room and board, and even provide additional support for books and travel. The following are the major scholarships offered by the University. 

• Alumni Endowed Scholarship

• Angier B. Duke Scholarship

• Benjamin N. Duke Scholarship

• Reginaldo Howard Memorial Scholarship

• Karsh International Scholarship

• David M. Rubenstein Scholarship

• Trinity Scholarships

• University Scholarship

Duke University Campus

Duke University's sprawling campus encompasses over 8,600 acres and three connected sub-campuses in Durham, North Carolina, and a marine lab in Beaufort. The West Campus is designed by Julian Abele and features Gothic architecture, with the iconic Duke Chapel as its centrepiece and highest point. It also conveniently neighbours the Medical Center. 

The East Campus, situated 1.5 miles away, houses all first-year students in Georgian-style buildings. Duke's reach extends beyond the US through two international schools: Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore and Duke Kunshan University in China.

Duke University Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending Duke University depends on several factors, including your program of study and whether you're a USA or international student. For USA undergraduates, tuition fees generally fall between $88,406-$89,142 annually. International students are also expected to get financial aid that ultimately lowers the cost of attendance.

Duke University Major Intakes

Duke University operates on a semester system, offering two main intake periods for undergraduate admissions: There are three intakes namely in November, January and June. The candidates can go through the timeline for all three intakes to apply for admission. 

Duke University Work-Study Programs

The work-study program at Duke University connects students with part-time jobs, primarily on campus, to help them offset educational expenses. When a student with financial need receives a work-study award, a part of their earnings from a qualifying job is subsidised by their financial aid package. This helps departments to hire work-study students, as a portion of the wage burden is covered. 

Pay Hours

As an enrolled student, you can participate in the work-study program and work up to 19.9 hours per week. Your earnings depend on two factors: the number of hours you work and your hourly wage offered by the employer. However, it's important to note that your total earnings throughout the year cannot exceed the predetermined work-study award amount assigned to you by financial aid. For the academic year, the maximum work-study award is capped at $2,200.

Rate of Pay

Duke University Notable Alumni 

Duke University boasts a prestigious alumni network coming from various industries and backgrounds. From pioneering business leaders to renowned athletes and cultural icons, these people have left a lasting impact on the world.

Tim Cook

From becoming the CEO of Apple in 2011, Tim Cook has steered the tech titan toward continued success and innovation. He has solidified its position at the forefront of technological advancement.

Melinda French Gates

Melinda French Gates co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with a deep commitment to health and education. She is a philanthropic powerhouse tackling critical challenges faced by humanity on a global scale.

Jay Williams

Jay Williams is famous in history for leading the team to national championships in both 2001 and 2003. Presently, he is working as a seasoned and insightful college basketball analyst.

July Woodroof

With a career spanning decades, Emmy Award-winning actress July Woodroof is known for her versatile acting and performances. From portraying iconic roles on the silver screen to gracing television with her talent, she has cemented her place in Hollywood.

Cost of living in the United States of America

Studying in the US as an international student means contending with a cost of living that fluctuates based on where you're located and your lifestyle choices. The students can expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month in major cities. This amount generally covers necessities like food, transportation, and phone/internet service. However, it's important to remember that housing and entertainment expenses can substantially increase your overall cost of living.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

• Transcripts:
  You will need to submit your high school transcripts, including information about your coursework and grades. Duke University typically looks for students who have pursued a rigorous and challenging high school curriculum.
• Standardized Tests:
  Duke is test-optional for undergraduate admissions. This means that you can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you do submit scores, they will be considered as part of your application. However, many students apply without standardized test scores, and Duke evaluates applicants holistically.
• Letters of Recommendation:
  You will generally be required to submit two or three letters of recommendation from teachers who can speak to your academic abilities and character.
• Essay(s):
  Duke University typically requires one or more essays as part of the application. These essays provide you with an opportunity to express your personal experiences, interests, and why you are interested in attending Duke.
• Extracurricular Activities:
  You should include information about your extracurricular activities, leadership roles, community service, and any other relevant experiences that demonstrate your interests and passions.
• Interview (optional):
  While not required, an interview with a Duke alumni volunteer or admissions representative is an opportunity to discuss your interests and learn more about the university.

Graduate Admission Requirements:

• Transcripts:
  You will need to provide transcripts from all previous academic institutions you attended, including your undergraduate institution. High academic achievement is usually expected.
• Standardized Tests:
  Many graduate programs require standardized tests such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), depending on the field of study.
• Letters of Recommendation:
  You will generally need to submit letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can assess your potential for graduate study.
• Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement:
  You'll typically need to write a statement of purpose or personal statement explaining your academic and career goals, research interests, and why you want to pursue a specific program at Duke.
• Resume/CV:
  Many graduate programs require a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) outlining your educational and professional background.
• Portfolio/Audition (for certain programs):
  Some programs, particularly in the arts, may require a portfolio of your work or an audition as part of the application.