Duke ACT score requirements

Hey, I'm considering applying to Duke and I was wondering if there's a specific ACT score requirement. Like, is there a certain score that's considered competitive for admissions? Thanks in advance!

Duke University does not have a specific ACT score requirement. However, Duke is a highly selective institution, and the admitted student profiles can provide insights into what can be considered a competitive score.

In recent years, most accepted students at Duke have had an ACT score around 34-35. Although being in this range does not guarantee acceptance at a school as selective as Duke, it does show that you'll be competitive within their applicant pool.

Do keep in mind that Duke, like many top universities, evaluates applicants holistically. Along with test scores, they consider factors like your grades, rigor of your high school curriculum, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations. So, even if your score is slightly below the 34-35 range, you can still be accepted if you showcase your strengths in other areas of your application.

For tips on how to enhance your overall application to Duke, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-duke-university-essays/. After all, most applicants to Duke have excellent academic credentials, and the essays can be a great way of setting yourself apart from even other talented students.

Finally, it is worth noting that Duke is officially test-optional, so you actually don't have to submit an ACT (or SAT) score. However, you're smart to still be thinking about a target score, as at a school as selective as Duke, you generally want to showcase your strengths in as many ways as possible. For detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional

Overall, while achieving a high ACT score is definitely an asset, it's crucial to ensure that the other components of your application are strong in order to maximize your chances of being admitted to Duke. Good luck!