Northwestern University vs. Duke University
Side by side: median LSAT, median GPA, estimated tuition, and selectivity rank for two of the most compared law schools. Medians from ABA Standard 509 disclosures via ILRG, Fall 2025 entering class.
| Measure | Northwestern University | Duke University |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Chicago, IL | Durham, NC |
| Selectivity rank | #5 | #13 |
| Median LSAT | 173 | 171 |
| Median GPA | 3.96 | 3.91 |
| Est. annual tuition | $79,772 | $80,100 |
| Est. 3-year tuition | $239,316 | $240,300 |
Pros and cons, from the data
Northwestern University
Pros
- Lower sticker tuition than Duke University
Cons
- Higher median LSAT (173 vs. 171) — harder to clear
- Higher median GPA (3.96 vs. 3.91)
Duke University
Pros
- Lower median LSAT (171 vs. 173) — easier to be at or above
- Lower median GPA (3.91 vs. 3.96)
Cons
- Higher sticker tuition than Northwestern University
Pros and cons are computed from the medians and sticker prices above, not from reviews. Scholarships can erase a sticker-price gap.
How to choose between them
Start with your numbers. If your LSAT sits at or above 173, Northwestern University is a target for you; if it sits below, it is a reach. Do the same math against 171 for Duke University. Then weigh the cost gap: about $984 over three years at sticker, before scholarships. A school whose median you clear is also a school more likely to offer you merit aid, which can erase a sticker-price gap. Visit if you can. Talk to recent graduates doing the work you want to do. The medians get you a short list; the visit and the aid letter make the decision.
More comparisons
Open this pair in the comparison tool to swap in other schools. Or try another popular pair:
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Last updated October 12, 2026