Author: chang liu

Categories
CAMPUS LIFE

Green Campus

Green Campus

LEED Certification

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification (LEED) was established by the U.S. Green Building Council, a non-profit organization that conducts third-party certification for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. It is currently considered to be the most complete, authoritative and influential certification in its domain. The evaluation standard represents the highest benchmark for green buildings.

Duke Kunshan University’s LEED certification

Duke Kunshan University obtained a green building certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in March 2016, becoming China’s first, and only, university to receive the “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design” (LEED) certification for all of its buildings. Among them, the Academic Building and Conference Center obtained LEED gold certification, and the Student Residence Hall, Faculty Residence, and Service Buildings have obtained LEED Silver certification. Like Duke University, the LEED certification reflects Duke Kunshan’s commitment to green buildings and green design. This commitment ensures that all new buildings and major repairs comply with Duke Kunshan’s sustainable building policies while achieving the goal of building energy- and water-saving campus.

‘’The design and construction of the Duke Kunshan University campus embodies the high integration of green building design concepts, advanced technology and traditional Chinese water culture. The perfect combination of these three components brings out the campus’ outstanding characteristics in terms of energy conservation and environmental protection. Campus life is an important part of the rich experience that Duke Kunshan University provides to teachers and students. The achievement of such an honor is an affirmation of Duke Kunshan University's goal of building a world-class university. "

- Jingnan Liu, Inaugural Chancellor of Duke Kunshan University and Academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering

"We are very pleased to see how Duke Kunshan became the first university campus in China to be LEED certified. The design and operation of the Duke Kunshan University campus have thoroughly implemented the green building concept, which is very important to the sustainable development of the world. This extraordinary achievement will set a good example for educational institutions in China and around the world."

-Mahesh Ramanuham, Chief Operating Officer, U.S. Green Building Council

Sponge Campus

What’s a “sponge city”?

In October 2015, the State Council of the People’s Republic of China issued guidelines calling for building “sponge cities” to achieve the best control and utilization of rainwater resources. Today, areas that can achieve the integration of water absorption, water storage, water seepage, water purification, and water use are still very few in China, and even in the world. However, on the Duke Kunshan campus, these “future technologies” that originally existed only in people’s imaginations have become a reality. The Duke Kunshan campus has successfully used the surrounding waterscape system to achieve natural infiltration, natural purification and the reuse of rainwater.

Sponge City

Duke Kunshan University’s Sponge Campus:



Water is a core element in Duke Kunshan University’s landscape design. The entire campus has been designed to successfully use the surrounding waters system to achieve natural infiltration, natural purification and the reuse of rainwater. The water circulation system is composed of four complementary parts: the natural water features around the campus are responsible for rainwater collection and flow control; the roof garden helps rainwater infiltration; the underground filtration system ensures water quality; the irrigation system makes full use of treated rainwater for irrigation. Since the campus opened in the fall of 2014, all the irrigation on the campus has only used recycled rainwater, reducing water consumption by 100% and saving roughly 10 tons of water per day on average.

DKU's Sponge City

Environmental-Friendly Campus

Air filtration system:

The air filtration system is adopted throughout campus to ensure the circulation of indoor and outdoor air. The filtration system in the Innovation Building, where Duke Kunshan’s science laboratories are located, is equipped with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters, which can effectively prevent dust and filter out harmful substances in the air.

Carbon dioxide detector:

All classrooms in the Academic Building are equipped with carbon dioxide detectors. When the indoor carbon dioxide reaches a certain concentration, fresh air will be added. The air system will also accelerate air circulation and increase oxygen levels, ensuring teachers and students can maintain focus in the classroom.

Energy saving technology:


All buildings at Duke Kunshan University have used a number of internationally leading energy-saving and emissions-reduction technologies for the efficient use of energy, lighting, hot water, electromechanical systems, etc., in order to create a “low-carbon” campus. Most buildings use large-area glass to maximize the use of sunlight, thereby reducing the need for lighting. In addition to natural lighting, dimmers are installed in areas with high circulation such as classrooms, gyms and team rooms, to enable teachers and students to manually adjust brightness levels, making possible a more efficient use of energy. The campus buildings are equipped with high-efficiency water-saving devices that can reduce water consumption by 38%, saving up to 12,000 tons of water each year. The Conference Center and the Service Building are equipped with solar thermal panels on the roof, with a total area of 675 square meters that can generate 470,000 kilowatt-hours of renewable energy each year. This energy is then used to provide hot water on campus.



Categories
ADMISSIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

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General
As a research-oriented, interdisciplinary liberal arts university located in China, our primary mission is to provide the highest quality undergraduate and graduate education and enable our students to lead purposeful and productive lives. The core of our educational offering is a four-year undergraduate degree program featuring an integrated and multi-disciplinary curriculum, with a strong Chinese, American, and global focus. In a culture of academic excellence and freedom, we prepare students for professional and academic leadership roles across the globe. As a highly selective Sino-U.S. joint-venture university, we promote innovative scholarship in service to society. We embrace the integration of global, national, and local traditions of thought, promoting cross-cultural understanding and cross-border collaborations.

Duke Kunshan is different in several ways. First, we offer an innovative liberal arts curriculum that is at the cutting-edge of knowledge and practice. The curriculum was developed after careful consideration of the key strengths and weaknesses of higher education in China and the U.S. The curriculum is derived from the academic excellence associated with Duke University, which is consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report.

 

Second, Duke Kunshan is a research-oriented university. We take great pride in the fact that our faculty are known for excellence in teaching and research, with special relevance to China, including global health, environment, innovation, and research and development management.

 

Third, our state-of-the-art campus offers a total student experience second to none. We go the extra mile to ensure that each student has exciting extracurricular “outside the classroom” experiences that complement the innovative learning environment inside the classroom.

 

Furthermore, we are a tight-knit community of students and faculty who have come from all over the globe to live, study and research together. Close student-faculty relationships are a hallmark of the Duke Kunshan experience.

Duke Kunshan offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a highly diverse, internationally oriented learning environment. The advantage of this environment is that our students have ample opportunities to learn from one another and to share and exchange ideas based on their unique backgrounds and cultures. Duke Kunshan students become more deeply grounded in their own history and culture as well as more globally aware – an important prerequisite for career success in the globalized world of the 21st century.

Students who are in good standing with Duke Kunshan University will have the opportunity to attend Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, in either the fall or spring semester of junior year. In addition to spending a semester at Duke in their junior year, students may also choose to study there for one six-week summer term.

 

While at Duke, in addition to a wider range of courses, Duke Kunshan students will also have access to Duke student activities and clubs and to other student services on the Durham campus. Please see the Duke Kunshan University Office of Study Abroad website and the Duke University website for more details. While students will pay the same tuition at Duke that they would have paid at Duke Kunshan, students should keep in mind that housing and other costs are more expensive in Durham. Duke Kunshan students will be responsible for the normal costs of housing, meals, health insurance and other customary fees at Duke during their stay. The Office of Study Abroad will provide students with a detailed cost breakdown for the Duke summer and semester programs.

 

Students also have the opportunity to study abroad at locations other than Duke for a regular semester and/or during the summer. Students should consult with their academic advisers and with the Office of Study Abroad. Students are required to have all courses pre-approved through the Office of Study Abroad.

Strategically nestled between two giants—the global financial hub of Shanghai to the east and the ancient cultural capital of Suzhou to the west—Kunshan is a premier engine of innovation and economic vitality. While its history spans over 2,000 years, Kunshan is decisively future-focused, consistently ranking as China’s top county-level city for its robust social and economic development.

 

As a pivotal part of Jiangsu province, Kunshan’s 931 square kilometers are a harmonious blend of advanced industry and natural beauty, with a quarter of its area adorned by serene lakes and rivers. This superior living environment, coupled with unparalleled opportunities, has attracted a diverse and talented community from across China and the world.

 

Kunshan’s global significance is underscored by its status as a leading manufacturing and R&D hub. Its exceptional business ecosystem, featuring three national-level and multiple provincial-level development zones, hosts operations for countless Fortune 500 companies and global industry leaders.

 

Connectivity is a key advantage. A cornerstone of the integrated Yangtze River Delta region, Kunshan is seamlessly linked by over 100 daily high-speed trains to Shanghai, with journeys taking under 20 minutes. The city is now further integrated into the metropolitan network with the opening of the Suzhou Rail Transit Line 11 (S1), which connects directly to Shanghai’s extensive metro system, making travel to both Shanghai and Suzhou effortless.

 

Recognized with honors like the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honor Award, Kunshan stands as a successful model of 21st-century urban development, offering a powerful combination of economic might, sustainable design, and an exceptional quality of life.

International students will need to apply for a temporary residence permit within 30 days of entering China. This process takes about one month and costs RMB 800. This permit will allow international students to travel in and out of China freely without further visa requirements. However, some destination countries may require their own visa, and students will need to apply for such visas through the embassies or consulates of the destination country.

International students will need to apply for the X2 visa to study in China. Before entering China, international students must apply for a Chinese visa through the Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country. Duke Kunshan has a specific office that can provide personalized services for international students applying for Chinese temporary residence permits and can assist domestic Chinese students in transferring their hukou to Kunshan. Detailed information including procedures and materials for applying for a visa and transferring hukou can be found on the Duke Kunshan website.

Yes, you are very welcome to visit the campus. For individual visits, our admissions counselors are available for consultation as well as trained student campus guide volunteers, who can provide campus tours upon reservation. Visit here to learn more and register.

We invite you to join us for one of our many live information sessions online, or for a local information session in one of several cities around the world. Times and locations for these sessions will be posted on our website and official social media channels.

 

Those who located near Durham, United States may request an add-on visit to the DKU Admissions House at Duke.

No. The language of instruction at Duke Kunshan is English. However, all students at Duke Kunshan are encouraged to attain a high level of Chinese, not only because the university is located in China but also because Chinese is one of the world’s most important global languages. For this reason, students who do not have a strong academic and professional command of Chinese will be assigned to a course appropriate to their Chinese level based on the results of a placement examination process.

Duke Kunshan is a Sino-U.S. partnership established by Duke University, Wuhan University and Kunshan city to create a world-class liberal arts and research university offering a range of academic programs for students from China and throughout the world. Duke Kunshan is a nonprofit, joint-venture institution that was granted accreditation approval by China’s Ministry of Education in September 2013.

Yes, we do consider applications from students who would like to enroll in undergraduate classes at DKU for one semester. You can learn more about the Duke Kunshan Visiting Student Program here.

Admission

• A record of outstanding academic achievement and a passion for learning;

• Strong English language proficiency

• Strong interest in Duke Kunshan’s innovative, integrated and interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum

• An adventurous spirit and global orientation

• Highly motivated, with a demonstrated ability to contribute to campus and community life

• The ability to overcome obstacles in various forms

All applications for Duke Kunshan University should be submitted using the Common Application. Students wishing to apply to both Duke University and Duke Kunshan University may do so by applying to each university individually via the Common App.

 

Common Application Checklist

 

• School report

• Counselor recommendation

• High school transcripts

• Teacher evaluations (2)

• SAT or ACT test score (optional for Fall 2024 applications)

    – No minimum test score is required for admission

    – International testing school codes for Duke Kunshan University:

      • SAT – 7059
      • ACT – 0621

•  Personal Essays

    • DKU-specific essay prompts:
    • “Why do you think Duke Kunshan University is a good match for you? And what special qualities do you feel you could bring to Duke Kunshan University?” (Required)
    • “Is there anything else you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you?” (Optional)*

•  Video Supplement (Optional)

    • A short video response to a randomized prompt. Details can be found here. 

•  CSS Profile (Required only if applying for financial aid)

The video supplement is an important part of your DKU application and gives you an opportunity to further demonstrate your fit for DKU’s unique community. Although not required, it is highly recommended. Details can be found here.

Up to eight elective credits may be awarded on the basis of Advanced Placement (AP), International Placement Credit (IPC, such as international baccalaureate) and Pre-Matriculated Credit (PMC). In some cases, such test scores and documented previous educational experiences may be used for placement into higher-level coursework and to satisfy major requirements at Duke Kunshan University to the extent allowed by each major.

International testing school codes for Duke Kunshan University: SAT – 7059, ACT – 0621, TOEFL – B624.

Yes. Students who are non-native Chinese speakers are required to take two years of Mandarin. For those who have taken Mandarin Chinese in high school, language proficiency will be assessed upon entrance, and a sequence of required courses will be assigned according to their particular needs.

No. All students begin their studies in the fall semester.

While applicants are strongly encouraged to enroll at Duke Kunshan University (DKU) in the year for which they apply, there are sometimes compelling reasons to delay enrollment. These reasons could include a military obligation, a family or health issue, an opportunity for public service, or a cultural experience. Click here for more information about our enrollment deferral policy.

The ability to communicate in English at a high level is necessary for success in the program. The admissions committee will be able to assess an applicant’s writing abilities through their academic achievement, standardized test results and written essay.

For applicants whose secondary school instruction language is not English or who reside in a country/region where English is not the official language, submission of TOEFL or IELTS test scores may prove helpful to the admissions committee. However, these exams are not required for admission.

All Chinese mainland citizens, whether in China or in other countries, must participate in the gaokao in the year of application and submit the results to the university. If you have any questions about the eligibility for application, please feel free to email China-Admissions@dukekunshan.edu.cn for assistance.

Students from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan should provide their score in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). Students from Taiwan can choose to provide their score in the General Scholastic Ability Test (GSAT), in lieu of the JEE.

Yes. For applicants from outside the Chinese mainland, their test scores must still be valid. Please check the expiration date of all test results.

DKU has adopted a Test Optional Policy.  However, students with SAT and ACT results are still welcome to submit them for consideration.

Applicants can find the Duke Kunshan University-specific essay question in the Application Requirements section of our website. Applicants can find the Common Application essay question options in their Common Application.

Applicants can contact international admissions about technical issues related to Common Application by email.

Yes, please check out our record request policy here

Yes, students enrolled in homeschool and/or online school are welcome to apply to DKU. There are no additional requirements for admission but we encourage students to review our homeschool guidelines for help preparing their applications.

Tuition & Fees

Please view our current tuition and fees schedule, which is subject to approval from the university board and related government bodies. Duke Kunshan University seeks a high caliber yet diverse cohort of students, and thus makes available both need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships to assist with the cost of tuition. Qualified students are encouraged to apply based on the understanding that the university will endeavor to assist students with demonstrated financial needs.

Citizens of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan qualify for the same tuition rates as Chinese mainland students.

There is NO application fee. Students who are admitted to the university and choose to enroll will need to pay a $1,000 nonrefundable deposit by wire transfer before the May 1 commitment deadline.

Expenses beyond tuition will depend on the tastes and habits of each individual. In general, students from outside the Chinese mainland can plan for a $12,000 annual budget, covering student fees, health insurance and other living expenses. During the optional Duke University semester in Durham, North Carolina, there will be no changes to a student’s tuition or scholarship package. However, students will have additional room and board costs associated with the Duke campus due to the higher cost of living.

Tuition and fees are due before the start of each semester. Students can pay via wire transfer or online bankcard debits in the currency in which they are invoiced. A Duke Kunshan University payment plan is available for international students to allow for tuition, fees and residence charges to be paid in four installments per year (two installments per semester). Further information can be found here.

Financial Aid & Scholarship

Duke Kunshan University seeks a high caliber yet diverse cohort of students, and thus makes available both need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships in to assist with the cost of tuition. The university has a substantial pool of funding dedicated to supporting students with need. We encourage all qualified candidates with financial need to apply to Duke Kunshan University.

Admission decisions are based on the overall assessment of all application materials. However, in order to best support the financial needs of all students who ultimately enroll, Duke Kunshan has a need-aware admissions process that may place some consideration on an applicant’s level of financial need in relation to available space and funds. On average, 80 percent of international students received scholarships or financial aid, with awards covering up to full tuition* (see Question #4 for more information).

Students who want to be considered for financial aid should complete a CSS Profile application with their admissions application. Final deadlines are Nov. 5 for early decision applicants and Jan. 15 for regular decision applicants.

Applicants are expected to provide details about their financial situation for consideration. When applying to Duke Kunshan via the Common Application website, all applicants must indicate “yes” in the financial aid interest box in order to be considered for need-based financial aid.

 

International students should submit a CSS Profile online by Nov. 15 for early decision applicants and Feb. 1 for regular decision applicants. The CSS code for Duke Kunshan is 7059.

 

Applicants from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan who indicate an interest in applying for need-based financial aid will receive further instruction from China Financial Aid. 

Duke Kunshan University seeks a high-caliber and diverse cohort of students. To this end, we offer both need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships to assist with tuition and, in selected cases, the full cost of attendance. Qualified students are encouraged to apply, as the university is committed to assisting those with demonstrated financial need. On average, approximately 80 percent of international students receive some level of financial support.

At Duke Kunshan, all applicants will automatically be considered for merit-based scholarships. Need-based financial aid is also available. Students seeking financial aid should complete the CSS Profile application by Nov. 5 for early decision applicants and Jan. 15 for regular decision applicants. Award amounts vary, up to and including full tuition in most cases*. Students are responsible for covering their living expenses such as room, board and transportation, which are relatively lower compared with typical U.S. universities.

* To reach talented students with significant financial hardship. These awards cover the full cost of tuition and the majority of non-tuition costs associated with enrollment including books, airfare, housing, food, and local health insurance. To be considered for these awards, eligible international applicants must demonstrate full financial need, exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. Further information could be found here.

Applicants will be notified of a merit-based scholarship or need-based financial aid award at the time of your admissions offer.

External Scholarships are a form of grant aid that is awarded to students by external organizations like community nonprofits, local businesses, scholarship organizations, etc. If you receive additional funds from any external sources (other than DKU), you shall report this to the Office of International Enrollment Management within one month after your receipt of such additional funds. For more information regarding external scholarships, please click here.

Degree

Duke Kunshan University students successfully completing the course of study required by Duke Kunshan University and Duke University will be conferred both a Duke Kunshan University graduation certificate and diploma officially approved by the MOE as well as a diploma from Duke University indicating that the degree has been granted in accordance with the requirements of Duke Kunshan University and Duke University (Duke University and its degrees are accredited by SACSCOC).  Students will be alumni of both institutions. 

As a Sino-foreign cooperative university with independent legal status approved by China’s Ministry of Education, Duke Kunshan confers a graduation certificate and a bachelor’s degree recognized by the Ministry of Education in addition to a Duke University degree indicating that the degree has been granted in accordance with the requirements of Duke Kunshan University and Duke University. As one of the most prestigious universities in the U.S. and the world, a Duke degree is well recognized all over the world by governments and employers. Duke University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and is certified by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange, the degree certification organization of China’s Ministry of Education. Duke Kunshan University is not accredited by SACSCOC and the accreditation of Duke University does not extend to or include Duke Kunshan University or its students. Further, although Duke University agrees to accept certain course work from Duke Kunshan University to be applied toward an award from Duke University, that course work may not be accepted by other colleges or universities in transfer, even if it appears on a transcript from Duke University. The decision to accept course work in transfer from any institution is made by the institution considering the acceptance of credits or course work.

Our innovative, integrated and interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum in a residential, personable, all-English, and interactive learning and teaching environment with great research opportunities will prepare our students extremely well for advanced studies in graduate schools. Graduates of our undergraduate degree program are expected to be highly competitive for some of the best graduate programs in the world.

Curriculum

A liberal arts education relies not on a formula for choosing and combining courses but on a culture of pedagogy that is immersive and dynamic, in which teachers and students work closely together to approach open questions, articulate hypotheses, test out ideas and challenge one another. This approach to education builds critical and problem-solving skills, simultaneously conferring a broad base of knowledge, and fostering the ability to question that knowledge and apply it flexibly.

 

A liberal arts education provides students with knowledge and skills that shape their lives, enhance their roles as citizens and increase their competitiveness for jobs. It develops their creativity and leadership and is deeply cross-cultural in its orientation, giving all participants the ongoing experience of learning to see from multiple points of view and to work together across cultural boundaries — a crucial skill for the future.

To learn more about the curriculum, visit: http://undergrad.dukekunshan.edu.cn/what-to-study/

The undergraduate degree program features a 21st century curriculum built around liberal arts principles and imbued with the hallmarks of a Duke education blended with Chinese tradition. The program incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, engagement with research questions, problem-based and team-based learning, and opportunities for students to craft individual pathways and deepen their intellectual engagement over time.

 

At Duke Kunshan, our liberal arts education fosters the freedom to explore academic interests while developing a breadth of knowledge and key skills including creativity, independent thinking, teamwork, written and oral communication, and evidence-based reasoning. Our approach combines theoretical and practical knowledge, delivered in small classes and taught in an open, participatory style that offers significant co-curricular and applied learning opportunities, including civic engagement and leadership opportunities.

 

Duke Kunshan also has a unique focus on producing a significant signature product and an emphasis on character development and rooted globalism. We foster an especially close connection between faculty and students, promote the intermixing of students with different interests, and provide direct access to research opportunities for undergraduates.

 

Other unique features of the Duke Kunshan undergraduate program include:

 

• Majors that have interdisciplinary and disciplinary components, with the former serving as the entry point and primary definition of a students’ academic focus, and the latter providing specialized training as well as divisional foundation courses that prepare students for advanced study and signature work that addresses a specific question, problem or issue. The disciplinary component includes independent research, a senior thesis or creative production.

• Common Core courses that focus on big questions and critical challenges.

• Electives that broaden students’ educational experience via distributional requirements and enable them either to develop greater specialized knowledge or to further broaden the scope of their study.

• Experiential opportunities that align the formal curriculum with practical experience, internships and other hands-on offerings.

• Intensive seven-week terms  enable students to take two in-depth courses with the flexibility to take some courses in 14-week blocks.

• Fridays are designed for practical work, field trips, internships, co-curricular activities and civic engagement.

• Mini-term courses provide a focused exposure to a single topic while enabling students to move outside of their comfort zone. There are no pre-requisites or grades for these non-credit courses.

• Seminars of fewer than 20 students make for an intensive, mind-on-mind education.

Majors at Duke Kunshan have interdisciplinary and disciplinary components, giving students the opportunity to customize their studies. Upon graduation, students receive a U.S. degree from Duke University and a Chinese degree from Duke Kunshan University. Students will declare their majors in their second year. For more information, visit dukekunshan.edu.cn/majors

No. However, each major consists of two important major related studies – an interdisciplinary area of study and a disciplinary area of study. The disciplinary area of study can be understood as a traditional major, while interdisciplinary work allows a student to tie that to other areas of knowledge. Students may also use their signature work to probe more deeply into another area and tie it to their major.

One of the advantages of a liberal arts education is that it encourages students to explore and discover his or her passion. Therefore, students are not required to declare a major until the second semester of their sophomore year, although students can also declare in the first semester of their sophomore year. Students will receive more information related to major declaration from the Office of Undergraduate Advising in their sophomore year.

Students can switch majors. However, they are not encouraged to switch too late, as this may make it difficult to meet the degree requirements in four years. Students need to complete their degree requirements within six years.

The faculty to student ratio is roughly 1:7. Most of Duke Kunshan’s faculty are globally recruited resident faculty members who have been selected by a Duke Faculty search committee. Other faculty members come to teach at Duke Kunshan from Duke University, Wuhan University and other top universities around the world.

Course instruction will be delivered primarily in small classes taught in an open, participatory style. Although there are some larger classes, the majority of courses will be seminar-style with 20 or fewer students. These seminars are the primary means by which excellence in writing, speaking and listening are nurtured.

 

Two of the core courses, China in the World and Critical Global Challenges, will be taught in large classes, appropriate to their function in developing a shared community of learning among students and teachers. Hybrid class designs utilizing flipped classrooms and team-based learning will provide opportunities for students to gain exposure to course content prior to class and provide in-class activities that focus on higher-level cognitive learning.

Undergraduate students have the opportunity to get involved in research with faculty members for credit through independent study research courses. The university’s research centers and institutes, including the Global Health Research Center, the Humanities Research Center and the Data Science Research Center, also sponsor research projects open to undergraduate students. In addition, the signature work project provides students the opportunity to seek creative alignments between curricular pathways and to engage in experiential learning that leads to the creation of knowledge and products for scholarly, private sector and public audiences.Undergraduate students have the opportunity to get involved in research with faculty members for credit through independent study research courses.

 

The university’s research centers and institutes, including the Global Health Research Center, the Humanities Research Center and the Data Science Research Center, also sponsor research projects open to undergraduate students. In addition, the signature work project provides students the opportunity to seek creative alignments between curricular pathways and to engage in experiential learning that leads to the creation of knowledge and products for scholarly, private sector and public audiences.

Students whose secondary education was not in English-medium schools will generally benefit from instruction in academic English skills, and they will take two semesters of English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses. Students can further develop their academic English skills by taking additional elective EAP courses and/or written and oral communication (WOC) courses. We have a Writing and Language Studio for students who want to learn more about how to build their foreign language skills.

The general academic calendar is similar to that of Duke University. The fall semester starts in late August and ends in the middle of December. The spring semester starts in early January and ends around May 15. The spring break week will coincide with the Chinese Spring Festival holiday week. The one-week mini-term will take place between the two seven-week sessions in the spring term.

 

Please click here to see the academic calendars at Duke Kunshan University.

Academic Advising is an essential part of the student experience at Duke Kunshan University. Advisers aid in the selection of courses, majors, signature work and experiential activities, as well as exploration of career goals. In addition, advisers cultivate learning outside of the classroom by helping students explore their interests and goals while advising on how to navigate academic and social life. Through the advising community, students are connected to a network of faculty and staff who can help them adjust to college and make decisions related to major selection and enhanced academic experiences (e.g. internships, study abroad, research and civic engagement).

DKU offers courses in English and Chinese. Students who have a strong enough command of both English and Chinese that they can readily do academic work in both languages may take independent study courses in a third language through the Writing and Language Studio.

Each year, Duke University accepts a very small number of transfer students. Duke Kunshan students interested in transferring to Duke University should apply in the same way as all others. They receive no special consideration for admission to Duke University. Duke Kunshan does not accept transfer students.

Regardless of background or experience with a particular subject, all students at DKU can succeed. To ensure your success, we provide a variety of student support services that we hope you take advantage of when you arrive. These services, such as the Academic Resource Center, DKU Library and Writing and Language Studio, can help you with a particular course or with your overall academic experience.

Although Duke University agrees to accept certain course work from Duke Kunshan to be applied toward a degree from Duke University, that course work might not be accepted by other colleges or universities in transfer, even if it appears on a transcript from Duke University. The decision to accept course work in transfer from any institution is made by the institution considering the acceptance of credits or course work.

The Duke Kunshan-Duke-NUS Medicine Pathway is an unique opportunity that allows students to pursue their undergraduate studies at Duke Kunshan University before going to embark on their medical training at Duke-NUS Medical School’s Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree program in Singapore. Open only to students who are committed to pursue the Data Science and/or Global Health Biology tracks, this conditional admissions pathway builds on DKU’s existing resources as a hub for high-tech research while preparing students for professional, intellectual, and societal leadership roles. Further details, including admission criteria, can be found here.

Campus Life

Our residential facilities include 9 Silver LEED certified buildings, containing around 2,100 beds, many study spaces, social lounges, and kitchenettes, and several classrooms and multipurpose spaces. Undergraduates will occupy 8 of the 9 buildings, which will be clustered into 4 courtyards. Each courtyard have around 500 students, a team of RAs, an RLC, and host a Living Learning Community (most of which have a Faculty-In-Residence). The buildings are a traditional-style accommodation with floors full of bedrooms and public bathrooms. Each room has 2 students living in it and each floor has bathrooms with private toilets and private showers.

Students of the same gender are assigned roommates using a complex computer process, designed to consider student preferences as provided on the suite assignment form before arrival. If students mutually confirm they wish to live together, they will be assigned as roommates. If not all students mutually confirm, they will be matched based on compatibility of answers from the “Lifestyle Preferences” section (e.g., smoking, sleeping, studying habits, etc.) of their Housing Application.

Single rooms are available only in the Student Residence Hall. Since there are staggered dates to sign up for housing based on citizenship grouping, and in an effort to provide equal access to all students, single rooms are assigned to those who complete the Housing Application in the shortest amount of time relative to their sign-up dates.

All undergraduate students are required to reside on campus. 

On-campus dining is available three meal times a day, seven days a week, but they are periodically closed for major holidays and/or when the university campus is closed. At such times, email notices will be sent out for information on closing times.

 

Nestled within DKU’s campus is a modern three-story dining hall, designed to meet the diverse needs of our community. This spacious facility houses a mini mart, a convenient coffee & juice bar, and an assortment of food options catering to a variety of preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a crisp salad, flavorful halal dishes, traditional Chinese cuisine, or comforting Western fare, our dining hall aims to provide a comprehensive culinary experience for all.

 

All meals must be paid for using a pre-loaded DKU ID card or WeChat. The DKU ID Card allows for a 10 percent discount and can be topped up at the Academic Cafe next to the Cafeteria.

Orientation is usually held two weeks prior to the start of classes.

Covering 13,000 square meters over four floors, the DKU Sports Complex includes courts, running tracks, workout areas, and many other recreation spaces, all fitted with advanced equipment and technologies.

In addition to a 180-seater basketball arena, the Sports Complex has a full-size soccer field, swimming pool and sauna, and courts for badminton, volleyball, tennis, squash and racquet ball, and table tennis. It also has indoor and outdoor running tracks; areas for cardio, weight, and strength training; a spinning and rowing room; and spacious studios for dance, yoga, and martial arts.

We
offer clubs and organizations in various categories to meet the diverse
cross-cultural and academic interests of the student body. Club
categories include academic and university department(s), arts and
culture, community building and social, environmental, science and
technology, recreation and sports, service and philanthropy, special
interest, and wellness. DKU has over 35 active student clubs and
organizations, and more are in the process of becoming active. Students can get information and
visit with clubs and organizations on campus during our Clubs and Orgs
Expo, which will be held on the first Friday of each semester.

 

Our clubs and organizations include but are not limited to:

 

• DKU Philosophy Organization

• Drama Queens

• Mathematical Modeling Club

• DKU Model United Nations

• Student Health Exchange

• Student Research Club

• Chinese Calligraphy & Painting Club

• Duke Kunshan Music

• Glee Choir Club

• DKU Badminton Club

• DKU Football Club

• Showtime DKU Basketball Club

• DKU Street Dancing Club

• Key Club

 

For more detail, please visit DKU Athletics Website.

Locally and internationally, DKU aims to provide suitable, high-quality volunteering and community service programs. These programs include a large number of volunteer opportunities with regional community partners, social practice programs across China and the DKU-established Duke Kunshan Home. Duke Kunshan Home is a nonprofit volunteer program initiated by the Office of Student Affairs and now led by the University Volunteer Association, which serves the Kunshan community.

There are a variety of religious and faith-based venues across Kunshan, Suzhou and Shanghai. Locally, they include a Roman Catholic Church in Kunshan, and a mosque and a nondenominational Christian church in Suzhou.

Duke Kunshan’s Student Health Center provides basic primary care medical services. It has one full-time physician, one part-time physician and two nurses. Clinic hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Part-time nurses provide out-of-hours care for medical emergencies.

CAPS is staffed by a full-time counselor and a full-time psychologist. It provides crisis intervention and emergency services, individual and group counseling services, workshops, outreach programs, and consultation and referral services for students. CAPS can also provide assistance to students with special needs or disabilities.

Kunshan has general hospitals and clinics with Chinese-speaking staff such as No. 1 People’s Hospital (about 7 km from campus) and Jen Ching Memorial Hospital (about 10 km away). Clinics and hospitals with bilingual staff are available in nearby Suzhou and Shanghai.

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ADMISSIONS

Undergraduate Brochure

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ADMISSIONS

Scholarship & Financial Aid

Scholarships and Financial Aid

We Support Your Future

Scholarships and Financial Aid that can help YOU change the world

We are committed to supporting talented international students who have a demonstrated desire to make a positive impact in the world around them.

When you apply to DKU, you will have the opportunity to access both NEED-BASED FINANCIAL AID and MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIP awards that typically cover up to, and including, full tuition. We are looking for students that are ready to step outside of their comfort zone and embrace a truly unique educational opportunity. Sound like you?

  • 1Over 80% of international students received financial aid and/or scholarship awards last year.
  • 2Undergraduate scholarship and/or financial aid awards are renewed annually for the entirety of your four-year program, on the condition that all renewal requirements are met.
  • 3Awards can cover up to your full tuition in most cases. For the Class of 2029, full attendance scholarships are available for a very select few international students.
Early exposure to hard research lets students explore their passions

  For more information, please contact: international-finaid@dukekunshan.edu.cn

Notice:

  • • Duke Kunshan University is not designated as a foreign eligible institution for U.S. Federal Student Aid and associated savings and loan programs. Therefore, the FAFSA is not needed to apply for financial aid at Duke Kunshan University.
  • • Admitted international students who did not apply for financial aid during the admissions application phase are ineligible to apply for financial aid for any year of undergraduate study.

More Resources:

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

Scholarship Sources

Merit vs. Need-based Financial Aid

Global Leaders Full Scholarship Award

Categories
ADMISSIONS

How to Apply

How to
Apply

The Duke Kunshan Admissions team takes a holistic approach when reviewing applications. This means that all application requirements are taken into consideration, ensuring the most suitable candidates are admitted on the strength of their application as a whole.

How to Apply:

Applications to Duke Kunshan University are submitted using the Common App website. We begin accepting applications for the 2026 entry term in August 2025.

Application Deadlines (2026 Entry Term):

Early decision application deadline: November 3, 2025 (11:59pm ET)

Regular decision application deadline: January 5, 2026 (11:59pm ET)

 

International Student Application Checklist

•  Submitted by the applicant via the Common Application*

•  There is no application fee

•  To be considered for need-based aid, check “yes” to financial aid; refer to the CSS Profile section below
– International applicants must be non-Chinese citizens. Please click here for information on how to determine your eligibility as an international student.

• The application includes the Common App essay and 2 DKU-specific essays:

1. “Why do you think Duke Kunshan University is a good match for you? And what special qualities do you feel you could bring to Duke Kunshan University?” (Required)
2. “Is there anything else you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you?” (Optional)

• Provided by the applicant’s high school counselor or an official of the applicant’s high school who serves in an advisory capacity (identified as the Counselor in the Common App)

• The initial School Report is required to complete the application

• The Mid Year Report should be submitted, if available, after the completion of the first semester of the senior year

• The Final Report is required for enrolling students or for a student who has already graduated at the time of application

• Provided by the applicant’s high school counselor or an official of the applicant’s high school who serves in an advisory capacity (identified as the Counselor in the Common App)

• This is required to complete the application

•  Provided by the applicant’s high school counselor or registrar, or other official of the applicant’s high school (identified as the Counselor in the Common App)

•  An “official” version of the transcript has the signature of a school official, has the high school stamp or seal, and/or has been sent electronically by the school and is on school letterhead.

•  The initial Transcript (Official) is required to complete the application

•  The Mid Year Transcript (Official) should be submitted, if available, after the completion of the first semester of the senior year

•  If the applicant attended multiple high schools, all transcripts must be submitted by an official from the school

•  If courses were taken for credit outside of high school, associated transcripts are also required to be submitted by an official from the school

•  The Final Transcript (Official):

For applicants who have already graduated: the final transcript is required with their application for admission.

For applicants who have not yet graduated: the final transcript must be submitted prior to Fall enrollment.

•  External Exam results (if applicable)

– This includes, but is not limited to: International Baccalaureate, WAEC, SSCE, German Abitur, French Baccalauréat, GCSE, A-Levels, CBSE X/AISSCE X, National Exams, Leaving Exams

– If final results are not available, predicted scores can be provided from the school counselor or official

– Final results are required prior to enrollment

– Exam results should be sent from the appropriate testing authority and/or high school official

•  A certified Graduation Certificate/Secondary Education Diploma (If applicable)

• Provided by the teachers identified by the applicant in the Common Application
• Two (2) teacher evaluations/recommendations are required to complete the application
• Submitted by the teachers electronically via Common App or other school system

• Provided by the recommenders selected by the applicant in the Common Application (these can be an external educational agent or advisor, additional teachers, coaches, or community members)
• Submitted by the recommenders electronically via Common App or other school system

• After you submit your application, record a short video response to a randomized prompt, directly from your portal. This is not required but is highly recommended.

• There is no cost to record a video in the portal.

• Click here for more information about recording a video, and to watch an instructional video.

• Additionally, applicants who have an InitialView interview or glimpse recording may send their video(s) to DKU via their IntialView account. Applicants can also choose to share their Duolingo video and essay prompt with DKU.

• SAT or ACT test scores (optional for Fall 2026 applications) – Applicants indicate in the Common App their decision to use test scores; if submitting test scores:

  – No minimum test score is required for admission

  – Self-reported scores can be submitted with an application

  – Verified scores are required prior to enrollment and should be sent directly from the testing agency

  – SAT Subject Test are optional

  – International testing school codes for Duke Kunshan University:

SAT – 7059

ACT – 0621

• TOEFL/IELTS or Duolingo is optional for non-native English speakers  

• Required only if applying for need-based financial aid; DKU is a need-aware institution 

• Submitted by the applicant and their family via the College Board 

– Additional documentation may be required via IDOC

• The CSS code for Duke Kunshan University is 7059

• The College Board charges students a fee between $16 and $25 for the CSS profile. Some students may be eligible for a fee waiver. To learn more, please visit the CSS Profile Fee Waiver website.

• NOTE: Admitted international students who did not apply for financial aid at the time of admission are ineligible to apply for financial aid at any later point in their undergraduate study.

• NOTE: DKU is not designated as a foreign eligible institution for U.S. Federal Student Aid and associated savings and loan programs. (FAFSA is not needed to apply for financial aid at DKU.)

• NOTE: Eligible students that intend to apply for the Global Leaders Full Scholarship Award must also submit an additional application by the deadline to be considered.

Incoming international students need to hold a valid foreign (non-Chinese) passport and should submit a copy of the passport photo page using the DKU Applicant portal prior to enrollment

*Applicants to Duke University may also indicate in Common App their decision to share their Duke application for admission with Duke Kunshan University. Click here for details. NOTE, upon Duke application submission, only those application materials submitted at that time will be shared with DKU. All materials supplied afterwards, including transcripts, school reports, recommendation letters, etc. must be sent to both universities. Also, if applicable, all CSS Profile documentation must be sent to both universities.

DKU International Admissions accepts applicant documentation from school officials via:

• Common App

• Naviance

• MaiaLearning

• Parchment

• SCOIR

• Slate.org

• Email at intl-admissions@dukekunshan.edu.cn

 

Postal Mail sent to:

US Based Office

International Enrollment Office, DKU

410 Swift Avenue

Duke Box 104805

Durham, NC 27705 USA

 

China Based Office

Duke Kunshan University

No. 8 Duke Avenue

Kunshan, Jiangsu Province,

China 215316

APPLY NOW

Common Application Checklist:

  1. School report
  2. Counselor recommendation
  3. High school transcripts
  4. Teacher evaluations (2 required, 1 optional)
  5. Other evaluations (2 optional)
  6. SAT or ACT test score (optional for Fall 2022 applications)
    • No minimum test score is required for admission
    • International testing school codes for Duke Kunshan University:
      • SAT – 7059
      • ACT – 0621
  7. Personal Essays
    • DKU-specific essay prompts:
    •  “Why do you think Duke Kunshan University is a good match for you? And what special qualities do you feel you could bring to Duke Kunshan University?” (Required)
    •  “Is there anything else you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you?” (Optional)
  8. CSS Profile (Required only if applying for financial aid)
APPLY NOW

More Resources:

Qualities We Look For In A Successful Candidate

Test-Optional Policy For 2025-2026 Application Cycle

Frequently Asked Questions

IEM Guardianship Guidelines for Families

International Student Application Eligibility

Duke Kunshan-Duke-NUS Medicine Pathway

Categories
ADMISSIONS

Enrollment Mode

昆山杜克大学旨在建设成为扎根于中国、并以通识博雅教育为特色的世界一流的研究型大学，致力于培养学生成长为未来的国际化创新人才和领军人才，帮助来自中国和世界各地的学生创造有意义、有成就的人生。

昆山杜克大学希望招收学习成绩优异、英语水平出色、对跨学科融合的通识博雅教育有强烈的兴趣、善于沟通、好奇心强、有强烈的社会责任感和领导力潜质、富有创造性思维、有理想并愿意为之付出努力、能够适应国际化竞争环境，并且有志于成为世界范围内各行业领军者的优秀高中毕业生。

经中国教育部批准，昆山杜克大学采用高考基础上的综合评价录取模式招收中国大陆本科学生。综合评价招生录取模式契合学校的定位、人才培养的目标、中外合作办学的初衷和中外融合创新探索的要求，符合国家高考综合改革的方向，也融入了杜克大学的经验，与中外合作大学模式相适应。

昆山杜克大学综合评价录取招生以541模式进行，即根据申请学生高考成绩（权重50%）、学校自主综合评估（权重40%，包括对申请材料的全面评估以及申请学生的“校园日活动”表现）、以及高中学业水平考试成绩（权重10%）计算所得的综合评定成绩择优录取。如果学生所在省市自治区没有全省（市/自治区）统考的高中学业水平考试或学业水平考试所有科目均以合格/不合格呈现，则自主综合评估的权重以50%计算。

按照国家有关规定，并经中国教育部港澳台办批准，我校对华侨及港澳台学生采用“综合评估+港澳台联考/台湾地区学科能力测试”模式招生。

所有学生均须通过Slate系统完成在线申请并提交申请材料。中国招生录取办公室将组织专家对申请学生的报名信息和申请材料进行审核，通过初审的学生将被邀请参加“校园日活动”。“校园日活动”全程采用英文，通过面试、英文写作测试、模拟课堂等考察申请学生的综合知识基础、思维能力、创新潜质、求知欲、团队精神、英语应用能力等综合素养。通过“校园日活动”的优秀学生进入入围名单。

高考结束之后填报高考志愿时，高考成绩达到或超过所在省市自治区本科第一批录取控制分数线（或特殊类型招生控制分数线/普通类一段分数线）的大陆入围学生才有资格在普通类本科提前批次（广东省为特殊类型招生批次）填报我校，我校将根据综合评定成绩择优录取。

参加台湾地区学科能力测试的台湾入围学生，学测成绩达到我校要求，我校将根据自主综合评估成绩和学测成绩进行综合计算，择优录取。

参加中华人民共和国普通高等学校联合招收华侨港澳台学生考试（下称“联招考试”）的港澳台侨入围学生，联招考试成绩达到400分及以上，我校将根据自主综合评估成绩和联招考试成绩进行综合计算，择优录取。

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UNDERGRADUATE STUDY

Undergraduate Bulletin

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UNDERGRADUATE STUDY

Career Development

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UNDERGRADUATE STUDY

Academic Advising

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UNDERGRADUATE STUDY

Global Education