Northwestern University vs Purdue University-Main Campus
Evanston, IL — West Lafayette, IN
| Metric | Northwestern University Evanston, IL | Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Evanston, IL | West Lafayette, IN |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 9,201 | 44,503 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7.7% | 49.9% |
| SAT Average | 1,533 | 1,364 |
| In-State Tuition | $68,322 | $9,992 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $68,322 | $28,794 |
| Avg Net Price | $29,167 | $14,600 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,000 | $19,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 95.5% | 83.1% |
| Retention Rate | 98.1% | 92.7% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $76,844 | $60,838 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363 | $72,424 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 204100.0% | 887400.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Northwestern University and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?▼
Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363. 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, Northwestern University or Purdue University-Main Campus?▼
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northwestern 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 $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% 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