Brown vs. Duke: Which University Offers Merit-Based Scholarships?

Brown does not award merit-based scholarships. Its undergraduate aid is need-based, so strong grades, awards, leadership, or athletics will not produce a separate merit scholarship; aid eligibility is determined from a family’s financial circumstances. Duke, by contrast, offers a small number of highly selective merit scholarships.

Brown fits a student whose affordability will depend primarily on need-based aid and whose family is likely to qualify under Brown’s financial-aid formula. Brown states that it meets demonstrated financial need for admitted students, but applicants should use its net price calculator rather than assume that a strong academic profile will change the award.

Duke is the place to consider for a student who is both seeking need-based aid and willing to be evaluated for rare, merit opportunities. These awards recognize exceptional academic achievement, intellectual engagement, leadership, service, or distinctive talent, and they are far more limited than Duke’s need-based aid. Most admitted students will not receive one, even with excellent credentials.

For financial planning, treat Brown as a need-based-aid option and Duke’s merit scholarships as a possible bonus rather than a dependable funding source.