The University of Tennessee-Knoxville vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Knoxville, TN — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Knoxville, TN West Lafayette, IN
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 30,418 44,503
Acceptance Rate 41.6% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,311 1,364
In-State Tuition $13,812 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $33,256 $28,794
Avg Net Price $18,976 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $20,500 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 73.7% 83.1%
Retention Rate 91.9% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,782 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $60,249 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 696900.0% 887400.0%

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

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The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do The University of Tennessee-Knoxville and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville (Knoxville, TN) has an acceptance rate of 41.6%, in-state tuition of $13,812, and median 10-year earnings of $60,249. 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, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Purdue University-Main Campus graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $72,424 vs $60,249. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville 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 $18,976.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.1% vs 73.7%.

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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