I'm a junior interested in Duke, but I'm feeling a little lost on what they're looking for in an applicant. Can anyone tell me about the undergraduate requirements, like specific coursework or GPA recommendations?
Duke University does have some general recommendations for undergraduate applicants. While there isn't a specific GPA requirement, keep in mind that Duke is a highly selective institution, with an acceptance rate of around 6.3%. To be competitive, you should aim for a strong academic record with a rigorous course load.
Here are some general recommendations from Duke regarding coursework for your high school curriculum:
1. English: 4 years, with a focus on writing.
2. Mathematics: 4 years, ideally including courses in Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and a higher level math course such as Precalculus, Trigonometry, Calculus, or Statistics.
3. Science: 3 to 4 years, including courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
4. Social Studies: 3 to 4 years, with courses in history and/or social sciences.
5. Foreign Language: 2 to 4 years of studying the same foreign language.
Please note that the above are recommendations, not strict requirements. Duke University practices a holistic review process during admissions, considering multiple aspects of an applicant's profile (extracurriculars, essays, recommendation letters, etc.) alongside academic achievements.
It's important to have a good balance between your coursework and involvement in extracurricular activities to demonstrate your commitment to both your academic and personal growth. Duke values well-rounded individuals with a demonstrated interest or "spike" in a particular area, as well as the ability to contribute to the campus community.
Duke University is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, which means submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional. However, if you believe that your test scores accurately represent your abilities and can add value to your application, you can choose to submit them.
In summary, while there are no specific GPA or coursework requirements, a competitive applicant to Duke would have a strong academic background, rigorous course load, and be well-rounded in their extracurricular involvement. Good luck in your application process!
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