Merced College vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Merced, CA — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
Merced College
Merced, CA
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Merced, CA West Lafayette, IN
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 10,001 44,503
Acceptance Rate 49.9%
SAT Average 1,364
In-State Tuition $1,200 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $8,520 $28,794
Avg Net Price $5,040 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 83.1%
Retention Rate 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $31,468 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $37,815 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 887400.0%

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

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Merced College
Merced, CA
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Merced College and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
Merced College (Merced, CA) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $1,200, and median 10-year earnings of $37,815. 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, Merced College or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Purdue University-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $72,424 vs $37,815. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Merced College or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Merced College is the more affordable option at $5,040 per year versus $14,600.

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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