Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Reading, PA — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks
Reading, PA
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Reading, PA West Lafayette, IN
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 1,872 44,503
Acceptance Rate 98.7% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,174 1,364
In-State Tuition $15,972 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $26,958 $28,794
Avg Net Price $24,356 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $25,000 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 27.7% 83.1%
Retention Rate 76.8% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,620 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,435 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 3192600.0% 887400.0%

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

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Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks
Reading, PA
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks (Reading, PA) has an acceptance rate of 98.7%, in-state tuition of $15,972, and median 10-year earnings of $63,435. 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, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Purdue University-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $72,424 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks 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 $24,356.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.1% vs 27.7%.

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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