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<p>Well, let’s assume SAT/ACT range is a good estimate of “smartness” and take a look at the ranges from collegeboard.com:
SAT CR, Math, ACT ranges:
Dartmouth: 660 - 770, 670 - 780, 29 - 34
Duke: 660 - 760, 680 - 780, 29 - 34
Northwestern: 670 - 750, 690 - 780, 30 - 33</p>
<p>I don’t see much of a difference there. Not to mention the average for college of arts and sciences at NU was 15 points higher than university average (because specialty schools like music, communications have lower averages).</p>