American University vs Purdue University-Main Campus
Washington, DC — West Lafayette, IN
| Metric | American University Washington, DC | Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Washington, DC | West Lafayette, IN |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 7,266 | 44,503 |
| Acceptance Rate | 62.0% | 49.9% |
| SAT Average | 1,381 | 1,364 |
| In-State Tuition | $58,771 | $9,992 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $58,771 | $28,794 |
| Avg Net Price | $41,943 | $14,600 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,750 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 77.0% | 83.1% |
| Retention Rate | 88.2% | 92.7% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $61,328 | $60,838 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $77,370 | $72,424 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 219000.0% | 887400.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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American University
Washington, DC
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do American University and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?▼
American University (Washington, DC) has an acceptance rate of 62.0%, in-state tuition of $58,771, and median 10-year earnings of $77,370. Purdue University-Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) has an acceptance rate of 49.9%, in-state tuition of $9,992, and median 10-year earnings of $72,424.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, American University or Purdue University-Main Campus?▼
American University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $77,370 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, American University or Purdue University-Main Campus?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Purdue University-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $14,600 per year versus $41,943.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.1% vs 77.0%.
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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.
Related
Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025