AdmissionsOS Davidson College vs Duke University
| Davidson College | Duke University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 13.4% | 5.7% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,400-1,530 | 1,500-1,570 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 31-34 | 34-35 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $17,379 | $29,612 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $79,475 | $87,072 |
| Graduation rate | 91% | 97% |
| Retention rate | 95% | 98% |
| Undergraduates | 1,867 | 6,442 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 8:1 | 5:1 |
| Setting | Davidson, NC | Durham, NC |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Application fee | $50 | $85 |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Davidson College or Duke University harder to get into?
Duke University is more selective, with a 5.7% acceptance rate versus 13.4% at Davidson College. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Davidson College or Duke University?
Davidson College has the lower average net price ($17,379 versus $29,612). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.