AdmissionsOS Duke University vs Wake Forest University
| Duke University | Wake Forest University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 5.7% | 22% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,500-1,570 | 1,410-1,520 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 34-35 | 32-34 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $29,612 | $28,719 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $87,072 | $87,499 |
| Graduation rate | 97% | 89% |
| Retention rate | 98% | 93% |
| Undergraduates | 6,442 | 5,485 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 5:1 | 10:1 |
| Setting | Durham, NC | Winston-Salem, NC |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Application fee | $85 | $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 Duke University or Wake Forest University harder to get into?
Duke University is more selective, with a 5.7% acceptance rate versus 22% at Wake Forest University. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Duke University or Wake Forest University?
Wake Forest University has the lower average net price ($28,719 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.