0in;”>If there is an area where you have had an impact, regardless of context–it could affect one person or many thousands–let us know. We are intensely interested in the good things our applicants have accomplished.
Do you have any advice for students needing housing at Duke University? Is it difficult for freshman/sophomores to get housing?
Housing is guaranteed for all four years, and all first-year students and sophomores are required to live on campus.
What advice do you have for students who might fall short of minimum requirements, but still want to attend?
First, if you believe you might be a competitive applicant, apply. While most applicants are in the top 10 percent of their high school class, we have no minimum GPA or SAT score. That said, the stronger the academic record the better the chance of being admitted. And if you’re not admitted as a first year student, consider applying as a transfer student.
What advice do you have for applicants?
Establish a strong academic record right from the beginning–we look at your grades from the 9th grade on. Make a commitment to the extracurricular activities that interest you the most, and follow through. Present yourself positively in the application–don’t be too modest.
What kind of opportunities do you have for non-traditional students?
We have a strong interest in international students, and a small transfer program.
How does the university weigh GPA, SAT scores, extracurricular activities, college essays and recommendations during the application process?
The greatest weight is given to courses and grades, then SAT or ACT scores. For students with good academic credentials, the activities and school-based letters of recommendation often are the deciding factors. Essays are important in revealing depth of thought and ability to write, but don’t commonly “make or break” an application.