Clemson University vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Clemson, SC — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
Clemson University
Clemson, SC
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Clemson, SC West Lafayette, IN
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 23,300 44,503
Acceptance Rate 38.3% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,353 1,364
In-State Tuition $15,554 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $40,866 $28,794
Avg Net Price $22,253 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 87.2% 83.1%
Retention Rate 93.5% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $58,311 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $71,513 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 460600.0% 887400.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Clemson University
Clemson, SC
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Clemson University and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
Clemson University (Clemson, SC) has an acceptance rate of 38.3%, in-state tuition of $15,554, and median 10-year earnings of $71,513. 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, Clemson University or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Purdue University-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $72,424 vs $71,513. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Clemson 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 $22,253.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Clemson University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 87.2% vs 83.1%.

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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