Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Duke University vs Wake Forest University

Durham, NC · Winston-Salem, NC · Source: IPEDS federal database

Duke UniversityWake Forest University
Acceptance Rate6.8%21.6%
In-State Tuition$65,805$64,758
Out-of-State Tuition$65,805$64,758
Average Net Price$12,801$18,681
Graduation Rate96.0%91.0%

GradFax Analysis

Duke University accepts 6.8% of applicants. Wake Forest University accepts 21.6%. Tuition is close: $65,805 at Duke University, $64,758 at Wake Forest University. Duke University graduates 96% of students in 6 years. Wake Forest University graduates 91%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Duke University profileWake Forest University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Duke University or Wake Forest University?

Duke University. It accepts 6.8% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Duke University or Wake Forest University more affordable?

Wake Forest University has lower published tuition: $64,758 versus $65,805. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Duke University: 96% of students finish in 6 years. Wake Forest University is at 91%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Duke University vs Wake Forest University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax