When we read your application and then discuss an application with our Admissions Committee, we consider both your academic and personal qualities. We think about what you have accomplished within the context of your opportunities and challenges. And we seek students who will bring a variety of experiences, backgrounds, interests, and opinions to the campus.

We’re guided initially by our assessment of five primary factors:

• The rigor of a candidate’s academic program
• Academic performance as measured by grades in academic courses
• Letters of recommendation from two teachers and a counselor
• Extracurricular activities
• The quality of thought and expression in the application essay

Take the SAT or ACT.

Two essays are required: the long essay and the short essay.

Learn more about Duke's admission requirements.

Choose to apply using either the Common Application, Coalition Application, or QuestBridge Application.

Choose your application status: first-year or transfer.

Once we receive the student-submitted portions of your application, you'll receive an email to access your Application Checklist.