This is the official thread for those applying ED to Duke University.
List your unweighted GPA, any SAT /ACT scores, and ECs. What majors are you going into?
Ask your questions, the CC community is here to help!
Looking to start on Duke ED for fall 2026, any advice on those who went through this last year. Kid has done everything they can and I think it will be numbers game but any advice on what Duke wants. Stats: 1540, all 5 on 9 APs, all As for GPA, not an athlete, has leadership, community, national competition
winnings, started own business, volunteering and has a job. Struggling with “hook” cause just a great kid who likes to have fun, studies hard, gets good grades and has a job. Not sure what a “hook” is!!!
I’m not an expert but had a kid apply two years ago. She didn’t have a main “hook” either. I think you can also think of it as a “theme.” Look thru activities/school work/life experiences, and try to find a common thread that can relate to their intended major or hopes for the future. It’s all in how you frame it. With some creativity, seemingly random things can fit together. Good luck!
Thank you! Any other advice? Kiddo meets criteria from a CDS perspective (academics, test scores, class rigor) but wild card in term of how ECs will be viewed and essay. Going ED and feels like hunger games 
in our experience (S24 at Duke) Duke admissions likes kids who are authentic. I would have them focus on their passions and why Duke.
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My son is planning to apply Early Decision to Duke for their Dual Major in Biomedical + CS at Pratts Engineering. How would you evaluate the rigor of Duke’s engineering program and its career placement opportunities? He’s particularly interested in working for biotech companies with a focus on AI/ML or informatics. In this field, is a master’s or PhD typically required beyond a BME degree?
how to judge changes of admission based on CDS? If you fall within 75% for most, what does that translate to? Or is it hard to tell?