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College comparison
Columbia vs Duke
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  Columbia New York, NY |  Duke Durham, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateColumbia University in the City of New York is more selective | 4% | 6% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1510–1580 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 8,973 | 6,442 |
| Avg net price | $21,590 | $29,612 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)Columbia reports higher median earnings | $102,491 | $97,800 |
| Graduation rate | 96% | 97% |
| Median debt | $21,500 | $13,000 |
| Economic mobility | 3.1% | 1.6% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
Columbia vs Duke: how they compare
Both are private research universities offering rigorous education, but they deliver it in vastly different environments and with distinct quantitative profiles.
By the numbers Columbia demonstrates superior value (4.7x earnings per dollar of net price vs. Duke's 3.3x) and stronger economic mobility (307% vs. 160%), while maintaining a lower average net price ($22k vs. $30k). Its selectivity is marginally higher (4% vs. 6% acceptance) with a slightly higher SAT 75th percentile (1580 vs. 1570). Columbia's admit-rate volatility is significantly higher (68% vs. 32%), and its DOE financial-health score is stronger (2.7/3 vs. 2.3/3). Duke edges out in 10-year median earnings ($98k vs. $102k), graduation rate (97% vs. 96%), and future-scholar yield (7.9 vs. 6.4 S&E PhDs per 100).
Where they overlap Both are highly selective institutions with high graduation rates and strong outcomes, situated in city settings. They produce graduates with high earning potential and a notable pipeline to future PhDs in science and engineering.
How they differ The core difference is cultural and locational. Columbia's identity is linked to New York City, fostering a cosmopolitan and individualistic environment where social life extends into the city. Duke offers a more campus-centric experience with an emphasis on school spirit and a self-contained community in Durham.
Who each suits Columbia suits the independent, ambitious student who thrives in a fast-paced, urban environment and seeks to leverage the city. Duke is a fit for the student who desires a classic college experience with a tight-knit campus community, without sacrificing academic rigor. The choice hinges on a student's preferred lifestyle and learning environment.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Columbia University in the City of New York or Duke University harder to get into?
- Columbia University in the City of New York is more selective: Columbia University in the City of New York's acceptance rate is approximately 4% and Duke University's is approximately 6% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Columbia University in the City of New York vs Duke University?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1510–1580 at Columbia University in the City of New York and 1500–1570 at Duke University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.