Duke University Nondiscrimination Statement


While we’ve seen two accepted Duke essays, there are plenty more resources available to you when writing your college essays. Studying why Duke essay examples or any other sample college essay can help you get started in your writing process. You’ll be able to see what works, note common tactics, and apply them to your personal application narrative. CollegeAdvisor provides a wealth of resources when it comes to the entire college application journey.
Of course, above all else, you must answer the prompt. Accepted Duke essays can give you an idea of how to do this. For example, one of our “why Duke” essay examples talked about specific programs offered only at Duke. Successful Duke essay examples will show that you are interested in more than just Duke’s impressive stats and prestigious reputation. When looking at “why Duke” essay examples or accepted Duke essays, you’ll want to study our before getting started. You’ll better understand the best way to approach each essay. Ultimately, the goal of this essay is to show the Admissions Officers that you are not just a passive participant in your extracurricular activities but an active and intellectually curious individual. By highlighting the impact of an extracurricular experience on your academic and career aspirations, you can demonstrate to Duke that you are a sincerely curious individual with a strong intellectual drive. After seeing some “why Duke” essay examples, you may be wondering about other Duke requirements. As a matter of fact, Duke is actually one of the in the nation. That is to say, SAT or ACT scores are optional, although your essays will be more heavily weighed without them. That means that when determining how to get into Duke, your Duke supplemental essays maybe even more important. Likewise, you may want to send in your test scores if they’re to improve your application. The goal is for Duke to understand if you can engage in conversations with those who hold opposing views on a topic important to you—without sparking unnecessary controversy. Can you handle difficult situations and differences of perspectives/opinions? Are you open-minded? However, Melissa also cautions, “This essay can be a bit tricky to pull off without sounding too negative, close-minded, or privileged, so if you choose to answer this one, be mindful of this.” Why should you start your essays so early? You’ll want to have plenty of time to get your ideas in order. Whether you have zero ideas or way too many, do yourself a favor and give yourself time to brainstorm.

Here's the Why Duke essay prompt:

Investigate the standardized tests some colleges and universities require for admission. Buy a study guide and begin taking practice SAT and ACT tests. We recommend that a student take an official SAT or ACT in the springtime of their junior year. Duke will be test-optional for students applying for admission in 2023-2024.

Duke University Application Essay, Duke University Admission Essay

There’s no doubt that Duke is one of the top ranking universities in the nation. In fact, U.S. News ranks the university at in the nation. While aren’t the most important factor when it comes to choosing colleges, it does indicate the competitiveness of admissions. For example, Duke is both highly ranked and one of the most selective universities in the nation.

Standing out on the Duke supplemental essays relies on

Most importantly, provide specific examples and anecdotes that illustrate the impact of the community or individual on your life. Show the Admissions Officers how this experience has shaped your character, values, and aspirations. Highlight the tangible ways you plan to contribute to Duke, such as through involvement in student organizations, leadership roles, or community service initiatives. By emphasizing both the transformative power of the community and your commitment to making a positive impact at Duke, you can demonstrate to the Admissions Officers that you possess the qualities and mindset that align with the university’s values and mission.

New Initiatives and Changes at Duke University 🚀

But don’t stress! That just means that you’ll need to make your application stand out. And, after reading our “why Duke” essay examples and other accepted Duke essays, you now have a foundation. Just remember to give yourself plenty of time when to Duke. Your four essays will require special attention in order to impress admissions.

Read the top 4 college essays that worked at Duke and more.

Duke University awards a limited amount of course credit and advanced placement on the basis of scores earned on Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and pre-matriculation college course work. However, course credit and advanced placement are not granted until the student has been admitted and until the official reports are received and evaluated by our Registrar’s Office. Since this process is handled outside the Admissions Office, a credit evaluation cannot be made until the student arrives on campus. Click for more information.