Lehigh University vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Bethlehem, PA — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Bethlehem, PA West Lafayette, IN
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 5,898 44,503
Acceptance Rate 25.9% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,440 1,364
In-State Tuition $64,980 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $64,980 $28,794
Avg Net Price $36,931 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $21,960 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 88.5% 83.1%
Retention Rate 93.7% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $88,810 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $105,584 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 126500.0% 887400.0%

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

Full Profile
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Lehigh University and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) has an acceptance rate of 25.9%, in-state tuition of $64,980, and median 10-year earnings of $105,584. 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, Lehigh University or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Lehigh University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $105,584 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Lehigh 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 $36,931.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Lehigh University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.5% 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