Apply to Duke School
Welcome to Duke School. We're so glad you're here.
We’re excited you're considering Duke School—a community where children are known, challenged, and inspired to grow. Whether you're just starting your search or ready to take the next step, we’re here to help you find the right match for your family.
Our 2025–26 admissions season (for the 2026–27 academic year) includes campus tours, open houses, and casual conversations designed to give you a meaningful glimpse into our program, values, and community.
Key Dates:
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Inquiries & tours: Open now—schedule your visit
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Applications open: September 2, 2025
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Application deadline: December 4, 2025 (Preschool–8th Grade)
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Preschool eligibility: Applicants must be 2.6 years old by January 1 to be considered in the first round
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Kindergarten eligibility: Applicants must be 5 years old before or on August 31 to enter Kindergarten
We encourage families to begin the process in mid-September. Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed as space allows. We’re committed to making the admissions experience smooth and personal—from your first inquiry to your first day on campus. Let’s spark what’s next—together.
| Date | Admissions Process & Deadline | |
|---|---|---|
| September 2, 2025 | Applications Open for 2026-27 Academic Year | |
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December 4, 2025 |
First Round Applications Due / Preschool through 8th Grade; Indexed Tuition* (Clarity) Applications Due |
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February 17, 2026 |
First Round Early Childhood (Preschool & Kindergarten) Decision Notifications | |
| February 25, 2026 | First Round Early Childhood Commitment Deadline | |
| February 27, 2026 | First Round Lower School (Grades 1-4) and Middle School (Grades 5-8) Decision Notifications | |
| March 11, 2026 | First Round First through Eighth Grade Commitment Deadline |
AN UNMATCHED ACADEMIC, SOCIAL, AND EMOTIONAL EDUCATION AT DUKE SCHOOL
Duke School offers an unmatched academic, social, and emotional foundation in which one year builds upon the next. Eighth graders are leaders, role models, and valued contributors to the community in ways that empower each of them. Project work starts as early as preschool and grows more sophisticated each year. And our small class sizes allow teachers to form close relationships with students and families—and to tailor instruction to the needs and interests of the individual.
Best of all about Duke School, our students and families become part of a tight-knit community built around a shared love of learning. And that shared love of learning stays with our students for life.