Duke University Deferrals: Understanding The Numbers And Trends

Duke University's Early Decision acceptance rate for the Class of 2029 was a record low of 12.81%, with 849 students admitted out of 6,627 applicants. While the university doesn't always release the number of deferred applicants, it's estimated that they typically defer a slightly greater percentage of students than they accept annually. For the Class of 2029, it's estimated that around 20% of applicants were deferred, while most were denied admission.

Duke doesn't release deferral numbers

Duke University does not release the number of students they defer as opposed to denying admission in the Early Decision round. However, it is estimated that Duke typically defers a slightly greater percentage of students than they accept annually. For instance, for the Duke Class of 2029, 12.81% of students earned Early Decision admission, and it is estimated that an additional 20% of applicants were deferred admission while most were denied admission.

Similarly, for the Class of 2026, Duke admitted 855 students through Early Decision, and it is estimated that an additional 110 deferred Early Decision candidates earned Regular Decision admission. This means that for the Class of 2026, Duke deferred a little over 11% of Early Decision applicants.

In the Early Decision round for the Class of 2022, Duke deferred 882 students to the spring Regular Decision process. This was out of a total of 4,090 Early Decision applicants, meaning that Duke deferred just under 22% of applicants for the Class of 2022.

While Duke does not release the exact number of deferred applicants, the above estimates suggest that the number of deferred applicants is typically close to the number of accepted applicants, and significantly lower than the number of rejected applicants.

Early Decision acceptance rates

Duke University's Early Decision acceptance rates have been on a downward trajectory over the last few years, with the rate for the Class of 2029 hitting a record low of 12.8%. The university received 6,627 Early Decision applications for the Class of 2029, a 6% increase on the previous year, and the highest number in Duke's history. Of these, 849 applicants were accepted, with 672 planning to enrol in the Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, and 177 in the Pratt School of Engineering.

The Early Decision acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 was 12.92%, down from 16.39% for the Class of 2027, and 21.3% for the Class of 2026. This indicates a trend towards increased competitiveness for places at Duke University.

The Early Decision pool for the Class of 2029 was the largest in Duke's history, and the admission rate was the lowest, continuing a pattern of record-breaking numbers for the university. The increase in applications may be due to Duke's reputation as a haven for Jewish students, following controversies surrounding campus antisemitism at other elite schools.

The Early Decision acceptance rate for the Class of 2029 was just under the previous year's rate of 12.9%. This slight decrease is notable given the increased number of applications received by the university. Of the applicants who were accepted, 113 were admitted through the QuestBridge National College Match Program, the highest number in Duke's history.

While the majority of applicants who are deferred by Duke University do not go on to earn admission, it is not uncommon for over 100 deferred applicants to be offered a place through Regular Decision. For the Class of 2026, 110 deferred Early Decision applicants were ultimately accepted through Regular Decision.

What to do if deferred

While Duke University does not release the number of students they defer, it is estimated that they typically defer a slightly greater percentage of students than they accept annually. For the Duke Class of 2029, 12.81% of students earned Early Decision admission, with an estimated additional 20% of applicants deferred.

If you are one of the students who has been deferred, here are some steps you can take to improve your chances of gaining admission:

Don't Panic

Being deferred from Duke University is not the end of the road. In fact, it is estimated that over 100 deferred applicants earn Regular Decision admission each year. Take a moment to breathe and remind yourself that you still have a chance of getting in.

Review Your Application

It is important to understand what may have led to your deferral. Conduct a thorough review of your application to identify any areas that could be improved. Consider seeking professional assistance to guide you through this process and help you reposition yourself for Regular Decision admission.

Write a Letter of Continued Interest

Craft a compelling letter expressing your continued interest in Duke University. This letter should not be a recap of your accomplishments but rather a demonstration of your passion for the university. Highlight specific ways in which you will contribute to the Duke community and how the university aligns with your interests and goals. This letter should be concise, direct, and brimming with specifics.

Make Necessary Changes

Based on your application review, make the recommended changes to your Regular Decision applications. Remember that you cannot modify your Duke application, but you can apply the learnings to other applications to improve your chances of acceptance at those institutions.

Seek Advocacy

Ask your school counselor to make an advocacy call on your behalf. Provide them with a copy of your Letter of Continued Interest so that they can effectively communicate your interest in and suitability for Duke University. School counselors can be powerful advocates, and their support can strengthen your application.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

There are several mistakes to avoid after being deferred by Duke University. Do not attempt to contact the admissions committee or send additional information unless specifically requested. Do not go above the regional representatives, as this may negatively impact your application. Refrain from updating Duke on offers of admission from other elite colleges, as this may be counterproductive.

Regular Decision applications

While Duke University does not release data on the exact number of students deferred, it is estimated that the university typically defers a slightly greater percentage of students than they accept annually. For the Class of 2029, 12.8% of students earned Early Decision admission, and it is estimated that an additional 20% of applicants were deferred while most were denied.

For the Class of 2022, 882 students were deferred to the spring Regular Decision process, and the previous year, Duke received almost 31,000 Regular Decision applications. The Regular Decision acceptance rate for that year was 4.1%.

For students who have been deferred, there are a few steps that can be taken to improve their Regular Decision applications. Firstly, it is important to assess the big picture of the college admission process and reassess the list of colleges being applied to. It is also crucial to review and rewrite the Common App essay, focusing on highlighting one or two aspects of the applicant's personality, rather than trying to include everything about themselves.

Another important step is to submit a Letter of Continued Interest, which reaffirms that Duke remains the applicant's first choice and provides a short update on any new academic achievements or leadership roles. This letter should be concise, clear, and direct, expressing the applicant's strong interest in attending Duke. Additionally, it is recommended to ask a school counselor to make an advocacy call on the applicant's behalf and send in mid-year grades.

It is important to note that pestering the admissions committee or trying to creatively show passion, such as setting up a tent outside the admissions office, is not advisable. Instead, focus on strengthening your application and following the recommended steps to improve your chances of Regular Decision admission to Duke University.

Letters of Continued Interest

A Letter of Continued Interest (LoCI) is a way to reaffirm your commitment to Duke University after receiving a deferral. It is a short letter, typically no more than 350 words, that serves two main purposes:

• To confirm that Duke remains your top choice: It is important to express your strong interest in attending Duke and that it is your first choice. This is crucial, as Duke will not admit students they are unsure will enrol.
• To provide a concise update: You can include 1-3 new pieces of information or achievements that you would have included in your initial application. This could be a new leadership position, academic award, research role, or improved grades and test scores.

When to Send a LoCI

It is recommended to send your LoCI as soon as possible after receiving your deferral. This will demonstrate your continued enthusiasm for Duke. The LoCI should be submitted through the applicant portal or via email to the admissions official assigned to your region.

What to Include in a LoCI

• Strong statement of interest: Begin your letter by clearly stating that Duke is your top choice and that you are still very interested in attending. This is an essential component, as it shows your commitment to the university.
• New and meaningful information: Provide a brief update on any significant achievements or developments since your initial application. Focus on academic accomplishments, leadership roles, awards, or improved grades and test scores.
• Specifics on how you will contribute: Instead of simply listing your accomplishments, focus on how you will contribute to the Duke community. Highlight any unique skills, experiences, or passions that will make you a valuable addition to the university.
• Keep it concise and direct: As mentioned, the LoCI should be short and sweet. Be selective about the information you include, and make sure every sentence counts.

What Not to Do

There are a few things to avoid when writing your LoCI:

• Don't be a pest: While it's important to express your continued interest, don't overwhelm the admissions committee with constant emails or letters. Send your LoCI and then give them space to consider your application.
• Don't include superfluous information: Stick to the key points mentioned above. The admissions committee doesn't need to know every detail about your life since you applied.
• Don't send gifts or do anything creative: As much as you may want to stand out, avoid sending gifts or trying to be creative by, for example, setting up a tent outside the admissions office. This will likely backfire and may be seen as annoying rather than passionate.

Remember, while a deferral can be disappointing, it is not a rejection. A well-crafted LoCI can help improve your chances of ultimately gaining admission to Duke University.

Frequently asked questions