Short answer: the middle 50% of first-year students who enrolled at Duke University scored about 1500 to 1570 on the SAT, with an average of 1548. That means a quarter of enrolled first-years scored 1500 or lower and a quarter scored 1570 or higher. These numbers come from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
Duke at a glance
SAT middle 50%: 1500 to 1570 | Average: 1548
Reading and Writing: 740 to 770 | Math: 760 to 800
ACT middle 50%: 34 to 35
Admission rate: 5.7%
Duke SAT scores by section
| Section | 25th percentile | 75th percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing | 740 | 770 |
| Math | 760 | 800 |
| Total (sum of sections) | 1500 | 1570 |
The total row adds the two section numbers, so treat it as a close estimate, not an exact percentile of total scores. For comparison, the average SAT score for the class of 2026 was 1045 (528 Reading and Writing, 517 Math), according to College Board.
Does Duke require the SAT?
No. Duke is test-optional for first-year and transfer applicants in the 2026 to 2027 cycle. Duke says applicants without scores “will not be at a disadvantage,” and that includes merit scholarship applicants and international students. Some exceptions may apply for ROTC scholarships.
- Superscoring: Duke takes your highest score in each section, from any test date.
- Score Choice: you do not have to send all your scores.
- Self-report: Duke accepts self-reported scores. Only students who enroll send official scores.
- Change your mind: you can change your testing choice until November 21 (Early Decision) or February 13 (Regular Decision).
- Last SAT dates: November 7 for Early Decision and December 5 for Regular Decision.
Duke’s own class profile for the Class of 2027 gave a middle 50% SAT of 1520 to 1570 among admitted students who sent scores.
What SAT score should you aim for?
Duke’s middle 50% is about 1500 to 1570 in College Scorecard, and Duke’s own admitted range was 1520 to 1570. Aim for 1520 or higher if you plan to send scores. At 1570 or higher, you are in the top quarter.
Math at Duke runs 760 to 800 and Reading and Writing 740 to 770. With Score Choice and superscoring, you control what Duke sees. Retake for your weaker section and send only your best.
Where do you stand against Duke’s range?
Take a free full-length practice test and compare your section scores to 770 (Reading and Writing) and 800 (Math).
How to close the gap
- Find your weaker section by comparing each score to Duke’s 75th percentile above.
- Practice at the top difficulty level. Scores in this range come from getting the hardest questions right. Try these hard SAT math questions and this hard SAT English practice test.
- Drill your weak skills in Targeted Practice.
- Compare schools with similar ranges in the College Finder.
Frequently asked questions
What SAT score do you need for Duke?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1500 to 1570.
What is the average SAT score at Duke?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1548.
Does Duke require the SAT?
No. Duke is test-optional in 2026-27, superscores, allows Score Choice, and accepts self-reported scores.
SAT scores by college
This guide is part of SAT Scores by College: Middle 50% and Testing Policy for 43 Schools.
Related guides:
- Rice SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1510-1570
- Georgetown SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1390-1550
- Vanderbilt SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1500-1570
- UVA SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1410-1540
- USC SAT Scores: Enrolled Middle 50% Is 1470-1540
- What Do SAT Scores Mean? How to Read Your Score Report
- Lowest Possible SAT Score: 400, and What a Low Score Means
Explore every SAT hub
- Digital SAT Complete Guide Format, scoring and a full study plan
- Advanced Math and Vocabulary Hub Hard math topics and high-value words
- SAT Grammar Guide Every grammar and punctuation rule
- SAT Reading Guide Reading question types and strategies
- SAT Practice Tests Guide Official tests and how to use them
- Desmos Guide Calculator shortcuts for SAT Math
- SAT Scores by College Ranges and testing policies for 43 schools
- PSAT Guide PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, PSAT 8/9 and National Merit
- Test Strategy Hub Timing, pacing and prep resources
- SAT Predictions Questions most likely to repeat
Sources
- U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard: Duke University (latest admissions data, accessed October 2026).
- Duke Undergraduate Admissions, Apply.
- Duke Undergraduate Admissions, Class of 2027 Profile.
- College Board Newsroom, Class of 2026 SAT results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What SAT score do you need for Duke?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1500 to 1570.
What is the average SAT score at Duke?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1548.
Does Duke require the SAT?
No. Duke is test-optional in 2026-27, superscores, allows Score Choice, and accepts self-reported scores.