Duke University primarily offers one main intake per year. The Fall intake (August-September) is the primary entry point for first-year undergraduate & Postgraduate programs. Spring (January) and Summer (May) intakes are limited to selected postgraduate programs. Freshman undergraduates cannot enroll in Spring or Summer.
PG admission deadlines: Program-specific, via individual school portals
UG admission deadlines: Early Decision: 3 November 2025 | Regular Decision: 5 January 2026 (now closed)
PG Deadline (Day-time MBA): 24 February 2026 (round 3)
Transfer students’ deadline: 15 March 2026
Indian students must meet academic and English requirements. Undergraduate applicants typically require higher academic marks, with strong extracurricular and leadership profiles. Postgraduate applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree with strong academic performance. English proficiency requirements vary by program. Accepted tests include IELTS and Duolingo, with minimum scores depending on the course.
Applicants must submit transcripts, essays or statements of purpose, letters of recommendation, resume, along with interviews or video submissions if required.
Note: $1= 91.089 INR as of January 20, 2026, is used across the article for currency conversion.
- Duke University Admissions and Intakes
1.1 Duke University PG Admissions (2026-27)
1.2 Duke University Undergraduate Admissions (20260-27)
- Duke University Courses and Deadlines
- Duke University Admission Requirements for Indian Students
- Duke University MBA Deadlines 2026
- Duke University Admission Process
- Duke University Acceptance Rate
- FAQs
Duke University Admissions and Intakes
The Fall intake is the primary admission period at Duke University, while Spring and Summer intakes have limited program availability. Duke University does not admit new first-year undergraduates in Spring or Summer. The official admissions calendar has only the Fall entry for freshman programs.
Duke University PG Admissions (2026-2027)
The table mentioned below includes official term dates for both undergraduate and graduate students in the following schools:
- Trinity College of Arts & Sciences (UG)
- Pratt School of Engineering (UG/graduate)
- Nicholas School of the Environment (Graduate)
- The Graduate School (master’s and PhD)
- Sanford School of Public Policy (Graduate)
- Duke University School of Nursing (Graduate)
| Particulars | Summer Intake 2026 | Fall Intake 2026 | Spring Intake 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Month | May Intake | August- September Intake | January Intake |
| Classes Begins | May 13 2026 | 24 August 2026 | 6 January 2027 |
The schools mentioned below have their own academic calendars and deadlines on their official sites.
- Fuqua School of Business (MBA and business programs)
- Duke University School of Law
- Duke Divinity School
- Duke University School of Medicine
- Duke Kunshan University (China)
- Duke-NUS Medical School (Singapore)
Duke University Undergraduate Admissions (2026-27)
Duke University takes its Undergraduate admissions in 2 ways, as mentioned below:
- Early Decision: If you are admitted under Early Decision at Duke, you must enroll and withdraw all other college applications.
Admission Deadline: 3 November 2025 (passed)
Decisions Released: Mid-December 2025 - Regular Decision: You can apply to multiple universities and compare offers before deciding.
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
Decisions Released: Late March / Early April 2026
The deadline for transfer student applications is set for 15 March 2026.
The UG deadlines for Fall 2026 have passed. Students can apply for the next Fall (2027) intake:
- Early Decision: Nov 2026
- Regular Decision: Jan 2027
Duke University Courses and Deadlines
Postgraduate admissions at Duke University are offered primarily in the Fall term, with a limited number of programs also accepting Spring intake. Undergraduate admissions, however, are available only for the Fall term. Application deadlines vary by program for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
| Course Name | School Name | Available Intake | Deadlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master's in Interdisciplinary Data Science (518 Views Last Year) |
The Graduate School | Fall term | 29 January 2026 |
| MS Computer Science (345 Views Last Year) |
The Graduate School | Fall term | 2 February 2026 |
| Master of Engineering Management (320 Views Last Year) |
Pratt School of Engineering | Spring term | Passed |
| Fall term | 18 March 2026 | ||
| MS Biomedical Engineering (218 Views Last Year) |
Pratt School of Engineering | Spring | Passed |
| Fall | 4 February 2026 | ||
| MS Statistical Science (113 Views Last Year) |
The Graduate School | Fall term | 5 January 2026 |
| BS Economics (118 Views Last Year) |
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences | Fall term | Passed |
| BS Neuroscience (115 Views Last Year) |
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences | Fall term | Passed |
| BS Computer Science (88 Views Last Year) |
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences | Fall term | Passed |
Duke University Admission Requirements for Indian Students
The table below provides a structured overview of Duke University’s undergraduate and postgraduate admission requirements for international applicants, including Indian students.
QuestBridge is a national college match program that helps high-achieving, low-income students get into top U.S. colleges with full-ride scholarships. Application via QuestBridge does not require an application fee.
Students can apply upto 20 universities via the Common App. Each university will charge its application fees.
| Parameter | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Application Portal | Common App or QuestBridge Application | School Specific |
| Application Fees | $85 (Non-refundable) | ₹77.86 INR | School Specific ($50-$105) | ₹3.316-₹9.619 INR |
| Application Requirements (course-specific) | Transcripts | Personal essays | Letters of recommendation (2 academic) |
Transcripts | Letters of Recommendation: 3 required | Statement of Purpose | CV | 3-5 minute video (course-specific) | Interview |
| Academic Requirements |
Duke University does not publish a fixed minimum percentage for undergraduate admissions. High school transcripts |
Applications are reviewed holistically, with strong emphasis on academic rigor, performance, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular achievements. |
| Standardized Tests (course-specific) |
Optional for Indian Students: SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test), ACT (American College Testing) | GRE/GMAT only if required by program |
| English Proficiency (course-specific) |
IELTS: 7.0 or above | Duolingo English Test: 130+ (optional but recommended) | IELTS: 7.0 | Duolingo English Test: 125 or equivalent |
Duke University MBA Deadlines 2026
The Master of Business Administration at Duke University is offered by the Fuqua School of Business. Majorly, Duke University offers three MBA programs:
- Day-time MBA (Full-time): for professionals with 5-7 years of work experience.
- Accelerated Daytime MBA: 10-month MBA for candidates who already have a prior master’s degree or strong business fundamentals.
- Weekend Executive MBA: For working professionals who already have significant work experience and do not want to leave their jobs to study.
| Program Name | Mode of Study Course | Course Duration | Tuition Fees in USD | Tuition Fees in INR | Application Deadlines |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day-time MBA | Full-time | 22 months | $81,000 | ₹71.18 L | Round 3: 24 February 2026 |
| Round 4: 1 April 2026 | |||||
| Accelerated MBA | Full-time | 10 months | $104,500 | ₹95.70 L | Round 3: 17 February 2026 |
| Round 4: 26 March 2026 | |||||
| Weekend Executive MBA | Working Professional | 22 months | $155,853 | ₹1.42 Cr | 4 February 2026 |
| 4 March 2026 | |||||
| 1 April 2026 |
Duke University Admission Process
Duke University does not have a single, common admission process for all applicants. The application process differs based on the level of study and the school offering the program. Undergraduate applicants apply through centralized platforms, while postgraduate and professional programs require applications through individual school portals.
Application Steps for Undergraduate Admission:
- Create an account on the Common App or QuestBridge
- Select Duke University as one of your choices
- Submit academic transcripts (equivalent to a US high school diploma)
- Provide English proficiency test scores (if required)
- Submit essays, letters of recommendation, and the application fee
- Track application status through the applicant portal
Application Steps for Postgraduate Admission:
- Choose your program and school on Duke’s official website
- Apply through the respective school’s online application portal
- Submit academic transcripts, SOP, resume/CV
- Provide English proficiency scores and test scores (GRE/GMAT if required)
- Upload letters of recommendation
- Pay the application fee and submit the application
Duke University Acceptance Rate
Duke University is highly selective, with acceptance rates staying below 7% over the last five years. This steady decline highlights increasing competition, making strong academics, extracurricular achievements, and a compelling application essential for admission.
| Class Year | Overall Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Class of 2029 (Fall 2025) | 4.8 % |
| Class of 2028 (Fall 2024) | 5.4 % |
| Class of 2027 (Fall 2023) | 6.3 % |
| Class of 2026 (Fall 2022) | 6.17 % |
| Class of 2025 (Fall 2021) | 5.8 % |
Duke University is highly selective, with acceptance rates below 7%, and offers world-class undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Admission requires strong academics, extracurricular achievements, and attention to program-specific requirements and deadlines. International students must meet English proficiency and other criteria. With proper preparation, applicants can join Duke’s vibrant global community and access top-tier academic and professional opportunities.
FAQs
Ques: Are SAT or ACT scores mandatory for Indian students applying to Duke UG programs?
Ans: No, SAT or ACT scores are optional for Indian applicants applying to undergraduate programs at Duke University. Students can choose to submit them if they want, but they are not required.
Ques: What is the application fee for the Fuqua School of Business?
Ans: At the Fuqua School of Business, the application fee can vary depending on the specific program you are applying to. For example, $225 (20.613 INR) is the application fee for the Daytime MBA.
Ques: I want to take admission in BS Economics of Duke University, but my scores are below 80%, am I still able to take admission in the University?
Ans: Duke University does not publish a fixed minimum percentage requirement for undergraduate admission, and its admissions process is holistic, considering academic performance, essays, recommendations, and extracurricular involvement rather than just marks. However, Duke clearly states that academic excellence is very important and that applicants are reviewed on the “rigor of secondary school record” and “academic performance” as key factors in admissions decisions.
Ques: Which courses require a GMAT/GRE score at Duke University?
Ans: At Duke University, some postgraduate programs require GRE scores (e.g., Computer Science, Economics, Political Science, Public Policy), while many others list the GRE as optional. Business and management programs (like the MBA) accept GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment scores, depending on the specific degree.
College Student Profiles
Duke University Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 69,880 /Yr | 105 | IELTS- 7.0, TOEFL- 90, Duolingo- 115 | |||
MS Computer Science 2 years | USD 69,880 /Yr | 105 | IELTS- 7.0, TOEFL- 5 Duolingo- 125 | ||
Application Deadline For Round 3 2026 Intake (18th Mar 2026) | USD 69,880 /Yr | 75 | IELTS- 7.0, TOEFL- 90, Duolingo- 125 | - | |
MBA 2 years | Round 2 Deposit Deadline For 2026 Intake (20th Feb 2026) | USD 69,880 /Yr | 225 | IELTS- 7, TOEFL- 90, Duolingo- 125 | |
MA Economics 2 years | USD 69,880 /Yr | 105 | IELTS- 7.0, TOEFL- 90, Duolingo- 125 | - | |
M.S Biomedical Engineering 18 months | Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (4th Feb 2026) Application Deadline For Spring Intake (1st Oct 2026) | USD 69,880 /Yr | 105 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL(90), IELTS(7.0), Duolingo-125 | - |
M.S Statistical Science 2 years | USD 69,880 /Yr | 103 | GPA 4.0, TOEFL(90), IELTS(7.0), Duolingo-125 | - | |
| USD 69,880 /Yr | 105 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL(90), IELTS(7.0), Duolingo-125 | - | ||
B.S Economics 4 years | Early Decision Application Deadline For 2027 Intake (3rd Nov 2026) | USD 70,265 /Yr | 85 | GPA 3.3, TOEFL(90), IELTS(7.0), Duolingo-130 | - |
B.S Neuroscience 4 years | USD 70,265 /Yr | 85 | GPA 3.3, TOEFL(90), IELTS(7.0), Duolingo-130 | - |
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Important Alerts
| Events | Dates |
|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration [MBA] Round 2 Deposit Deadline For 2026 Intake | Closing in 16 days |
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11 Reviews Found
Likes
- Academics/Professors are excellent, they care about teaching and aren't as strict
- I love the housing system, you get to live with the same people throughout
- The post graduate opportunities are so ridiculously good
Dislikes
- The food was very hit or miss on most occasions
- The community can at times be very cliquey
- Greek life is extremely dominant and can be isolating
Likes
- Beautiful campus with gothic architecture
- Every day so many events will be happening which lets you explore different cultures, organizations, inclusivity.
- Tight knit community and support environment with very diverse students which helps you get various perspectives and how to interact with everyone.
Dislikes
- Fees are pretty high and cannot be afforded without a loan
- Durham is pretty boring with very less fun things to be done. Limited social scene outside campus
- Transport around the city is hard without a car
Likes
- The campus is beautiful and has a lot of space for you to study, eat and have fun
- There is a lot of diversity and you will find people from different cultures and backgrounds
- The curriculum is pretty flexible
Dislikes
- The MEM cohort is not very diverse
- Not a lot of ties with indsutries to help students land internships/ Co-op's
- The batch size is a little large
Likes
- The Campus is absolutely beautiful, surrounded by forest and beautiful ponds and parks.
- People and Professors are very nice, everyone around you is super talented and highly achieved. The Talent density is really outstanding.
- There are all sorts of clubs and organizations in Duke that you can image of, and they all are well funded and keep organizing events.
Dislikes
- Durham is a small and aloof town, so there is not much to do outside of campus, so weekends can be boring and depressing sometimes.
- There is no dining hall for West Campus, there are only restaurants which o $5 meals, which is decent but they can do better.
- Meals for vegetarians are limited, and expensive, they can work on that.
Scholarship
- I did not receive a scholarship, and scholarships for Master of Engineering Management programs at Duke University are rare. 5-6 people from my course have a scholarships and they range from 5000-1000 USD.
- They have no specific eligibility criteria, but a high CGPA, GRE or exceptional profile will get the scholarship. My roommate has a scholarship of 8000 USD.
Likes
- The professors were really accomplished individuals with stellar academic and professional credentials who also taught equally well.
- Networking events: There was always some networking event happening around the campus which helped me understand the professional aspects of the US as an international student.
- The campus is probably one of the prettiest campuses in the US with amazing sports facilities, student centers and libraries.
Dislikes
- Expensive tuition: The university especially the business school is very expensive and makes the education inaccessible to many deserving students.
- Needs better CMC: The CMC or Career Management Center at Fuqua School of Business does a good job helping with resume drafting and networking tips. But when it comes down to actually getting employers to campus to recruit from the school directly they lack immensely.
- Location: Durham, the city the university is located in doesn’t have a lot happening and doesn’t feel very urban. For some this might hamper their student experience.
Scholarship
- I received a partial scholarship which is named as the merit scholarship. You don’t have to make a different application for this and all applicants are considered for the same by default.
- I initially got a 7,000 USD scholarship that I renegotiated to 12,000 USD.
- Many of my batch mates received similar merit scholarships ranging from 2,000 USD to 20,000 USD. There are no other financial aid options for international students other than the mentioned merit scholarships at Duke Fuqua.
- I am unaware of the exact number of students who receive the merit scholarship but the typical award amount is around 5,000 USD.
Likes
- The best part of being at Duke University is the great amalgamation of different cultures that lets me understand their perspectives rooted in their background.
Overview
While I was making a list of colleges that I had to apply to, I found the Fuqua culture really immersive and this is what attracted me to it. I chose this program because I wanted to transition from a pure sciences background to a management background. This will act as a springboard for my future career goals.
Likes
- Love the professors, the networking opportunities, the alumni connection, the extracurriculars the presence of all sorts of religious and identity houses.
Dislikes
- Love the professors, the networking opportunities, the alumni connection, the extracurriculars the presence of all sorts of religious and identity houses. Hate the cohort intake there are 300+ people in 1 cohort and hence the entire experience is ruined you have to fight to get into basic courses, fight to become Ta, fight for on-campus jobs, fight to get the career councils attention. PLEASE ASK THE ADMISSION COORDINATOR WHAT WILL BE THE COHORT SIZE BEFORE JOINING ANY UNIVERSITY. DO NOT ATTEND IF IT IS MORE THAN 100.
Overview
I chose this college as it is one of the renowned colleges. It has amazing faculties, people who have been in the industry for years. It has great courses and exposure to other schools and overall experience was good.
Likes
- Best Statistic Department in the world with good research and strong alumini network
- Everything from academics, extra curricular, location, networking, campus, placements, global perspective, sports school (amazing basketball matches).
Dislikes
- High fees and some faculties can't teach well as they are very research focused. TA ship is offered randomly in Stats Dept without looking at student profiles.
Overview
Amazing... There is everything you can do. Duke promotes great ideas and supports you in your ambitions. You should be able to make the best out of it!
Likes
- The ranking for both the program and the university was one of the highest in USA. Apart from it's reputation, it was the course flexibility that attracted me to be here
- I like the flexibility with the courses here. I can take electives based on my career path and can new courses as well if I am looking to pivot to some other career path. We have live case studies in our subjects helping us to work on real time problem that tech is facing currently.
Dislikes
- There isn't anything that I dislike but an co-op addition can be beneficial. Currently we are not allowed a full time co-op for six months but we can choose for a part time option to work through out the semester. Co-op helpings building stronger connections which helps in ensuring the internship conversion to full time.
Overview
It was amazing. I love everything about Duke. The sense of belongingness, basket ball, its gothic architecture, my course and even the people around you. You learn something new everyday and in every class.
Likes
- The ranking for both the program and the university was one of the highest in USA. Apart from it's reputation, it was the course flexibility that attracted me to be here
- I like the flexibility with the courses here. I can take electives based on my career path and can new courses as well if I am looking to pivot to some other career path. We have live case studies in our subjects helping us to work on real time problem that tech is facing currently.
Dislikes
- There isn't anything that I dislike but an co-op addition can be beneficial. Currently we are not allowed a full time co-op for six months but we can choose for a part time option to work through out the semester. Co-op helpings building stronger connections which helps in ensuring the internship conversion to full time.
Overview
It was amazing. I love everything about Duke. The sense of belongingness, basket ball, its gothic architecture, my course and even the people around you. You learn something new everyday and in every class.
Scholarship
Nope no scholarship.
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| Program | Important Dates |
|---|---|
| Master in Interdisciplinary Data Science | Application Deadline For Fall Intake (29th Jan 2026) |
| MS Computer Science | Application Deadline For Fall Intake (2nd Feb 2026) |
| Master of Engineering Management | Application Deadline For Round 2 2026 Intake (20th Jan 2026) Application Deadline For Round 3 2026 Intake (18th Mar 2026) |
| MBA | Round 2 Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (8th Jan 2026) Round 2 Deposit Deadline For 2026 Intake (20th Feb 2026) |
| MA Economics | Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (15th Jan 2026) |
| M.S Biomedical Engineering | Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (4th Feb 2026) Application Deadline For Spring Intake (1st Oct 2026) |
| M.S Statistical Science | Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (5th Jan 2026) |
| M.S Electrical and Computer Engineering | Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (16th Jan 2026) |
| B.S Economics | Regular Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (5th Jan 2026) Early Decision Application Deadline For 2027 Intake (3rd Nov 2026) |
| B.S Neuroscience | Regular Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (5th Jan 2026) |
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