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

West Lafayette, IN — Reading, PA

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

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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Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks
Reading, PA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Purdue University-Main Campus and Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks 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. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Purdue University-Main Campus or Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks?
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, Purdue University-Main Campus or Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks?
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