Purdue University-Main Campus vs Iowa State University
West Lafayette, IN — Ames, IA
| Metric | Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN | Iowa State University Ames, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | West Lafayette, IN | Ames, IA |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 44,503 | 25,367 |
| Acceptance Rate | 49.9% | 88.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,364 | 1,204 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,992 | $10,787 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $28,794 | $28,881 |
| Avg Net Price | $14,600 | $18,589 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 | $22,869 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 83.1% | 75.4% |
| Retention Rate | 92.7% | 87.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $60,838 | $53,873 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $72,424 | $63,386 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 887400.0% | 923200.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Iowa State University
Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Purdue University-Main Campus and Iowa State University compare?▼
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. Iowa State University (Ames, IA) has an acceptance rate of 88.7%, in-state tuition of $10,787, and median 10-year earnings of $63,386.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Purdue University-Main Campus or Iowa State University?▼
Purdue University-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $72,424 vs $63,386. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Purdue University-Main Campus or Iowa State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Purdue University-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $14,600 per year versus $18,589.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.1% vs 75.4%.
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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