Category: ADMISSIONS

Categories
ADMISSIONS

College Fairs and School Visits

College Fairs and
High School Visits

Wherever you are, our admissions representatives are eager to connect with you! 
US NORTHEAST & MIDWEST & MIDEAST

Email Emily Grubbe at emily.grubbe@duke.edu to schedule an individual meeting and get your questions answered.

New York City NCF

April 6, 2025

 

Jacob Javits Convention Center
429 11th Ave
New York, NY

Montgomery County NCF

April 8, 2025

Adventist HealthCare Fieldhouse
18031 Central Park Cir
Boyds, MD

 

Prince George’s County NCF

April 11, 2025

Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex
8001 Sheriff Rd
Hyattsville, MD

Tidewater College Fair

April 1, 2025

 

Cape Henry Collegiate School
1320 Mill Dam Rd
Virginia Beach, VA

 

Richmond Area Independent Schools College Fair

April 2, 2025

 

Collegiate School
103 N Mooreland Rd
Richmond, VA 

 

Northern Virginia Regional College Fair

April 9, 2025

 

EagleBank Arena
4500 Patriot Cir
Fairfax, VA

US WEST & SOUTHWEST

Email Lindsay Parker at l.parker@duke.edu to schedule an individual meeting and get your questions answered.

WACAC San Diego Fair 

April 26, 2025 

 

Scripps Ranch High School
10410 One Falcon Way
San Diego, CA

US SOUTHEAST

Email Alyson Lucas at alyson.lucas@duke.edu to schedule an individual meeting and get your questions answered.

Sunshine Invitational

April 5, 2025 

 

Saint Andrew’s School
3900 Jog Rd
Boca Raton, FL

 

AIMS Invitational

April 6, 2025 

 

Hyatt Regency Miami
400 SE 2nd Ave
Miami, FL 

Charlotte NCF

March 22, 2025 

 

Charlotte Convention Center
501 S College St
Charlotte, NC

Categories
ADMISSIONS

Admissions Video Supplement

Admissions Video Supplement

International undergraduate applicants have the opportunity to submit a supplemental video from their DKU Applicant Portal. This is an important part of the DKU application and gives applicants an opportunity to further demonstrate their fit for DKU’s unique community through a response to a randomized question or statement (a prompt). This Video Supplement, while not required, is highly encouraged and allows the admissions team to get to know applicants better.

Applicants – Log in to your portal and click on the Video Supplement link to view detailed instructions. Please read them thoroughly! You will first test your audio and video. When you are ready to proceed, you will be given a randomized prompt. You will have 1 minute to prepare, and up to 2 minutes to record your response.

We realize this is a timed exercise and your response will not be perfect. That is OK! During the 1 minute of preparation time, write key points or words if that helps you to remember what you want to say. You do not have to memorize your response. The goal is for the admissions team to learn more about you and your fit with DKU.

Before you can record a video, you must first submit your application. The video link is available to all applicants. Early Decision applicants must submit their video by November 15. Regular Decision applicants must submit their video by January 15. Any videos submitted after these dates may or may not be reviewed by the admissions team.

DKU also accepts recordings from InitialView. If you have completed an interview or glimpse recording, select Duke Kunshan University within your InitialView account. Applicants can also choose to share their Duolingo video and essay prompt with DKU.

Watch a short walk-through of the recording process

Why Submit a Video Supplement, Plus Tips

  • 01 • Is a video required?

    Submitting a video response is optional, but highly encouraged.

  • 02 • What are the technical requirements?

    • A computer, tablet, or phone with a microphone and camera.
    • The latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari browser.
    • A strong internet connection.
    • A well-lit space with minimal background noise.

    *You will be able to test your equipment before recording your video.

  • 03 • Is there a fee to submit my video?

    There is no fee to record a video response within your DKU Applicant Portal. If you would like to also submit a video through InitialView, their fees may apply.

  • 04 • When can I submit my video? Where do I submit it?

    You may submit your Video Supplement once we have received your application. Log in to your DKU Applicant Portal and click the link to the video recording platform. If you also choose to send any videos from InitialView, select Duke Kunshan University within your InitialView portal.

  • 05 • What is the prompt or topic?

    After you complete a test recording, you will receive a randomized prompt (topic). It will be in the form of either a question or a statement. For example, “In what way(s) did your high school experiences prepare you for college in China?” or “What skill or skills are you most excited to develop at DKU?” or “Tell us about your favorite family custom.” This is not a test! These topics are intended to inspire a spontaneous answer that offers insight into you – there is no right or wrong answer.

  • 06 • How much time will this take?

    The entire process can be as short as 4 minutes! In your DKU Applicant Portal, click the link for the video supplement, and read the instructions carefully. Record a short 10-second test to ensure your audio and video are working. After testing your equipment, you will receive your prompt, and have 1 minute to consider your response. Recording then begins automatically. You will have 2 minutes of recording time. You may use as little or as much time as you like; you are not required to use the entire 2 minutes. If you choose, you may record a new video only one additional time. You will receive a different prompt if you choose to record again.

  • 07 • What if I want to record my video again?

    If you are unhappy with your first video, you will have the option to record a new video only one additional time. If you choose to start over, you will receive a different prompt. Your first video will be deleted and cannot be recovered. Your second video will be automatically submitted – you can play it back, but you will not be able to delete it or record another one.

  • 08 •What if I want to delete the video I recorded?

    You cannot delete or “unsubmit” a video. Remember, your response is not expected to be polished or “perfect”!

  • 09 • Can I edit my video or upload a pre-recorded video?

    The video response is meant to be spontaneous and it is not possible to edit the video. There is not an option to upload a pre-recorded video within the portal.

Video Supplement Tips

  • Formulate your response during the 1 minute of prep time.

  • Write key points or words to help you remember what you want to say.

  • You do not need to memorize your response and it’s ok to glance at your notes.

  • If your response is shorter than 2 minutes, that’s ok!

  • If you don’t finish your response within 2 minutes, that’s ok!

  • Relax and speak from your experience. We want to know about you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Categories
ADMISSIONS

Test-optional Policy

Test-Optional Policy for Fall 2024-2025 Application Cycle

Test-Optional Policy for 2024-2025 Application Cycle

Duke Kunshan will continue to offer a test-optional policy for the 2024-2025 application cycle. Based on their circumstances, applicants choose in the admission application whether or not they will provide their results from the SAT or ACT exams. The admissions committee places emphasis on all components of all applications, including high school performance, application essays, recommendation letters, and, in some cases, an admissions interview. Submitting SAT or ACT results can strengthen an application by establishing broader context for the student’s achievements. However, applicants who do not submit an SAT or ACT will not be at a disadvantage in our admissions process. Although there are no additional requirements for those who opt to not submit a test score, applicants are welcome to submit any additional academic measurements that they feel may strengthen their application, such as national /external exam scores. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • 01 • Why is DKU extending the test-optional policy for Fall 2025?

    In recognition of the disparate levels of preparation and access to the SAT and ACT around the world and because of our ongoing commitment to recruiting a diverse population of students, Duke Kunshan offers a test-optional policy for the 2024-2025 application cycle.

  • 02 • If I submit my test results, will they be considered as part of my application?

    Yes, your test results will be included with your application.

  • 03 • How will my application be reviewed if I don’t submit SAT or ACT scores?

    Duke Kunshan reviews all international applicants holistically and in the context of their academic environment. This includes curriculum, school, region, and other relevant circumstances as described in the application. In the absence of SAT or ACT scores, other academic materials that are provided with the application will be considered, such as national/external exam results.

  • 04 • Can I strengthen my application if I submit SAT or ACT scores?

    A standardized test result can strengthen an application in the sense that it provides another application component for consideration. If you have the ability to take the SAT or ACT, and you earned a score that you feel fairly reflects your academic talents, you are encouraged to submit your test results with your application. You may wish to review the Qualities We Look for in a Successful Candidate on our website for further reference.
    Likewise, students whose curriculum lacks national or external exams (e.g. IB, AP, Cambridge, WAEC, CBSE, etc.) may want to consider submitting SAT or ACT scores in order to establish a broader context for their school achievements.
    We ask students to consider their choice carefully and make a firm commitment at the time of their application or no later than the application deadline (November 1, 2024, for Early Decision applicants or January 2, 2025 for Regular Decision Applicants).

  • 05 • Will I be at a disadvantage for admission or scholarship selection if I don’t submit SAT or ACT scores?

    Students who do not submit SAT or ACT scores with their application will not be at a disadvantage in our holistic admissions process or scholarship selection. Applicants are welcome to submit any additional materials that they feel may strengthen their application. The admissions committee will place emphasis on the other components of your application including high school performance, national & school exams, supplemental essays, and, in some cases, an admissions interview.

  • 06 • How do I indicate my plan regarding test score submission?

    All international applicants will answer the “testing plan” question in the Common Application, indicating if they do or do not want their test scores considered with their application.

  • 07 • Once I submit my Common App, can I change my test plan choice?

    We ask students to consider their choice carefully and make a firm commitment at the time of their application or no later than the application deadline (November 1, 2024 for Early Decision applicants or January 2, 2025 for Regular Decision Applicants). After this time, change requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

    To request a change, email us at Intl-admissions@dukekunshan.edu.cn.

  • 08 •As a non-native speaker of English, will there be any additional requirements for me?

    In most cases, the admissions committee can determine your level of English proficiency through the materials collected in your application and, if an invitation is extended, an admissions interview. Students with test results in English proficiency exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo are welcome to submit these to support their application, though these are not required in order for an application to be considered complete.

  • 09 • Should I submit anything else in lieu of test scores?

    There are no additional requirements although applicants are welcome to submit any additional materials that they feel may strengthen their application, such as national/external exam results (predicted or official).

  • 10 • What is the average SAT score for DKU students?

    The middle 50% range for SAT scores was 1520-1550 among international students admitted to DKU in the Class of 2027.

  • 11 • If I opt to provide my SAT or ACT scores, can I self-report my scores with my application?

    Although it is preferred to receive the results from the testing agency, applicants can self-report their test scores in order to complete their application. Any future offer of admission is contingent upon providing verified test results sent directly to DKU from the testing agency.

Categories
ADMISSIONS

Scholarship Sources

Scholarship Sources

Scholarship Sources


Duke Kunshan University scholarships are supported through generous contributions from our academic and business community. The following is a list of some of our scholarship sources. Scholarships are awarded automatically at the time of acceptance. A separate application is not necessary.

  • 01 • Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship

    This scholarship was created to fund university students on Duke Kunshan’s full-time undergraduate degree program.

  • 02 • Kunshan Government Scholarship

    The city of Kunshan will fund 10 international students and 10 Chinese students in Duke Kunshan’s second cohort of undergraduate students.

  • 03 • Chancellors’ Scholarship

    Initiated by Mary Bullock upon her retirement in 2015, the scholarship is named in honor of Duke Kunshan’s inaugural Chancellor Liu Jingnan and inaugural Executive Vice Chancellor Mary Bullock, and their shared vision that Duke Kunshan will become a leading international university. It is considered the highest honor for incoming students. The scholarship is awarded to one international student and one Chinese student in the undergraduate program each year.

  • 04 • Bond Scholarship

    This scholarship, awarded by Bond Education, will fund top students with outstanding records in leadership, service and academics.

  • 05 • The Richard H. Brodhead Global Scholarship

    Initiated by Duke Kunshan’s inaugural Advisory Board in recognition of Duke’s 13th president, the Richard H. Brodhead Global Scholars are selected from the very best Chinese and international applicants. The scholarship fund will allow students with exceptional academic talent, demonstrated character and leadership ability to “take the leap” with confidence, to join and help shape this young university.

  • 06 • Ying Hui Scholarship

    Established in honor of the ancient Chinese tradition of benevolence and care for others, this scholarship is awarded to incoming undergraduate students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership and commitment to the principles of community service and social progress.

  • 07 • Fubon Scholarship

    The scholarship was created by Fubon Group to inspire and support students from Taiwan and international students to attend Duke Kunshan’s undergraduate program, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.

  • 08 • Shu Ren Scholarship

    The Shu Ren (meaning “nurturing the talent” in Chinese) Scholarship was created to support the early growth of Duke Kunshan’s undergraduate degree program, contributing to the university’s vision of creating a new type of globally aware, intellectually agile, ethical leader while also helping transform Chinese higher education.

  • 09 • Green Future Fund

    The fund was created through the generous philanthropy of Ma Lin in contributing to a sustainable future in China and beyond. The fund will provide dedicated support to outstanding undergraduate students at Duke Kunshan who have demonstrated a strong commitment to the protection of China’s environment and related sustainability causes.

  • 10 • Hong Scholarship

    This scholarship is open to students who have declared a major in humanities and demonstrate a strong need for financial aid. The recipients are encouraged to shape their lives in a way that is rich with meaning as they examine and recognize the full range of human values and potential.

  • 11 • Fang Family Scholarship

    This scholarship was established by the Fang family with the intention to help remove financial obstacles, enabling top high school graduates from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, as well as other regions, to choose Duke Kunshan over other prestigious institutions.

  • 12 • Zhi Yuan Scholarship

    Named after the Chinese proverb “Ning jing zhi yuan” (meaning “tranquility yields transcendence” in Chinese), the scholarship is offered to students who are determined to increase their depth of knowledge and experience, and to confront complicated and rapidly changing social realities.

  • 13 • JF Progressive Scholarship

    With their dedication to education and high hopes for students from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, and overseas, Jeff C. Chuang and Frances Chang established the JF Progressive Scholarship to support outstanding undergraduate students at Duke Kunshan.

  • 14 • L Scholarship

    This scholarship aims to support excellent undergraduate students at Duke Kunshan for their overall academic and personal development.

  • 15 • Huiyan International Education Fund Scholarship

    The fund was established with support from Yang Huiyan, vice chairman of Country Garden Holdings, and a donation from the Guoqiang Public Welfare Foundation of Guangdong province. The fund supports exceptional undergraduate students at Duke Kunshan and aims for a better world through education.

  • 16 • DKU Foundation Scholarship

    The scholarship is supported by the Duke Kunshan Education Development Foundation, which aims to facilitate the success of the university’s mission to become a world-class liberal arts and research university with a transformational impact on higher education in China and around the globe.

Categories
ADMISSIONS

Merit Scholarships and Need-Based Financial Aid

Merit Scholarships and Need-Based Financial Aid

Merit Scholarships
and Need-Based Financial Aid

Duke Kunshan University seeks a high caliber yet diverse cohort of students, and thus makes available both merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid to assist the Class of 2029 with the cost of tuition, and in select cases, additional cost of attendance.

Peter Ballentine

Merit-Based Scholarships

Duke Kunshan University offers a number of merit-based scholarships. These scholarships may be awarded to admitted students who distinguish themselves in academics, character, extracurriculars, talent, service, and other areas worthy of commendation. All applicants for admission are automatically considered for all available merit scholarships. A separate application is not required.

 

• Award Process: Scholarship awards are announced at the time of acceptance.

Need-Based Financial Aid

Need-based financial aid is reserved for admitted students with strong academic records yet a demonstrated lack of financial resources to cover tuition payments. 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.

• Award Process: Financial aid awards are announced at the time of acceptance.

Please follow these steps to apply for financial aid:

1. When applying to Duke Kunshan University via the Common Application, you must indicate “yes” in the check-box referring to interest in receiving consideration for need-based financial aid.

2. Submit a completed CSS Profile along with your application. (The latest deadlines are Nov. 5 for ED and Jan. 15 for RD.)

a. The CSS code for Duke Kunshan University is 7059.

b. 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.

 3. Some applicants may be asked to submit supporting documents. If you are required, you will receive an email from the College Board IDOC service after you complete the CSS PROFILE. Additionally, your DKU Financial Aid Checklist on your application portal will be updated as well.

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

Click here to learn more about how to apply for Financial Support at Duke Kunshan University. 

Duke Kunshan University Full Scholarship (for Fall 2025 Entry)

To reach talented students with significant financial hardship, Duke Kunshan University will offer a very select number of full scholarships for the Class of 2029’s international students. 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.

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.
Categories
ADMISSIONS

Qualities We Look for in a Successful Candidate

Qualities We Look for in a Successful Candidate

Qualities We Look for
in a Successful Candidate


We’re seeking talented students who will thrive in our unique global learning environment and who demonstrate the following characteristics:

  • 01High-achievers with a passion for learning

    Do your grades and test scores demonstrate academic distinction? Do you push yourself to excel both inside and outside the classroom? We are looking for well-rounded students who are intellectually engaged in a variety of settings and activities, and are well-prepared for a rigorous academic experience.

  • 02Strong interest in Duke Kunshan’s innovative, integrated and interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum

    Today’s students will soon graduate into a future where global politics, innovation and the environment intersect at every level. Complex global problems can no longer be adequately understood, addressed or solved through the lens of just one discipline, the way that traditional “majors” were designed. We are looking for students who are ready to tackle a unique, interdisciplinary curriculum that will prepare them to understand the world’s complexities from many angles and to make a difference on an international scale.

  • 03An adventurous spirit and global orientation

    Studying in a different country requires an open mind and an adventurous spirit. Are you adaptable? Tolerant? Do you have a genuine curiosity toward other cultures? Applicants must demonstrate an eagerness to interact with people from diverse backgrounds.

  • 04Demonstrated impact in campus and community life

    We want students with a desire to have a meaningful impact. We look for demonstrated engagement in various extracurricular, co-curricular and service-learning activities that show how students can apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations and experience personal growth. How would you become fully engaged in your educational experience, bring value to the Duke Kunshan and broader community, and ultimately to future organizations?

  • 05Excited about the leadership opportunities in a global environment

    Imagine the opportunities available to you at such a young and vibrant global university. As a member of our fourth class, you will play a crucial role in helping grow our clubs, advancing our newly-created student government and writing for our new school newspaper. In essence, you will be helping shape the culture and legacy of our unique institution. Furthermore, our students can intern and research with multinational corporations and prosperous startups before graduating into the prestigious Duke Alumni Association. We look for students whose leadership experiences have prepared them to take full advantage of this rich environment.

  • 06Strong English language proficiency

    The Duke Kunshan curriculum is taught entirely in English; therefore, all successful applicants must have strong English language abilities. The Admissions Committee will be able to assess an applicant’s English language ability through the application process, which may include a live interview via phone or video chat. For non-native English speakers, TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo test scores may be submitted with an application for consideration, but are not mandatory. The TOEFL school code for Duke Kunshan University is B624.

Categories
ADMISSIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

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General
As a research-oriented, interdisciplinary liberal arts and sciences 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.

The city of Kunshan lies in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta region, one of the most developed areas in China. Bordering Shanghai, a large international metropolis, to the east and Suzhou, one of the country’s most renowned cultural and historical cities, to the west, Kunshan is an emerging industrial and commercial city with a history dating back more than 2,000 years. As an important county-level city in the southeastern part of Jiangsu province, Kunshan occupies an area of 359 square miles (931 square kilometers), one-quarter of which is covered by lakes and rivers. Kunshan’s superior natural and urban living environment has attracted people from all over the world to live and work. Widely considered a successful model for China’s social and economic development, Kunshan has won many titles, including the top ranking in Forbes China’s list of best county-level cities in the Chinese mainland for six consecutive years, and the 2010 UN-Habitat Scroll of Honor Award. A number of Fortune 500 companies and other leading enterprises have established operations in Kunshan’s three national-level development zones, two provincial-level development zones, and within its eight townships. Kunshan is located about 60 kilometers west of Shanghai, a 90-minute drive from Shanghai’s downtown and about 50 minutes from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. There are more than 100 high-speed trains running between Kunshan and Shanghai every day, with each trip lasting under 20 minutes. A new subway system will be completed in 2021, adding another convenient option for transportation between Kunshan, Shanghai and Suzhou.

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 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, and the cost of attendance in selected cases for Class of 2028. Qualified students are encouraged to apply based on the understanding that the university will endeavor to assist students with demonstrated financial needs. On average, around 80 percent of international students received some level of scholarships or financial aid.

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 and sciences 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 and sciences 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 and sciences 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.

Categories
ADMISSIONS

Undergraduate Brochure

Categories
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 2025 entry term in August 2024.

Application Deadlines (2025 Entry Term):

Early decision application deadline: November 4, 2024 (11:59pm ET)

Regular decision application deadline: January 2, 2025 (11:59pm ET)

 

International Student Application Checklist

•  Submitted by the applicant via the Common Application*

•  Early Decision by November 4 (11:59pm ET)
•  Regular Decision by January 2 (11:59pm ET)
•  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 2024 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 2024-2025 Application Cycle

Frequently Asked Questions

IEM Guardianship Guidelines for Families

International Student Application Eligibility

Duke Kunshan-Duke-NUS Medicine Pathway