Kansas State University vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Manhattan, KS — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Manhattan, KS West Lafayette, IN
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 15,142 44,503
Acceptance Rate 81.7% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,151 1,364
In-State Tuition $11,221 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $28,568 $28,794
Avg Net Price $19,406 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $21,250 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 70.8% 83.1%
Retention Rate 85.6% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $49,330 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $57,262 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 746100.0% 887400.0%

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

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Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Kansas State University and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS) has an acceptance rate of 81.7%, in-state tuition of $11,221, and median 10-year earnings of $57,262. 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, Kansas State University or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Purdue University-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $72,424 vs $57,262. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Kansas State 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 $19,406.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.1% vs 70.8%.

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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