Michigan State University vs Purdue University-Main Campus
East Lansing, MI — West Lafayette, IN
| Metric | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI | Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Location | East Lansing, MI | West Lafayette, IN |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 40,922 | 44,503 |
| Acceptance Rate | 84.8% | 49.9% |
| SAT Average | 1,269 | 1,364 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,458 | $9,992 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $43,842 | $28,794 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,680 | $14,600 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 81.4% | 83.1% |
| Retention Rate | 90.0% | 92.7% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,084 | $60,838 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $67,253 | $72,424 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 1161300.0% | 887400.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Michigan State University and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?▼
Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) has an acceptance rate of 84.8%, in-state tuition of $16,458, and median 10-year earnings of $67,253. 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, Michigan 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 $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan 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 $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.1% vs 81.4%.
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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