University of California-Irvine vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Irvine, CA — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Irvine, CA West Lafayette, IN
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 30,197 44,503
Acceptance Rate 28.6% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,364
In-State Tuition $15,722 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $49,922 $28,794
Avg Net Price $14,251 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 86.4% 83.1%
Retention Rate 94.0% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $56,210 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $80,735 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 635700.0% 887400.0%

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

Full Profile
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of California-Irvine and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
University of California-Irvine (Irvine, CA) has an acceptance rate of 28.6%, in-state tuition of $15,722, and median 10-year earnings of $80,735. 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, University of California-Irvine or Purdue University-Main Campus?
University of California-Irvine graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $80,735 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of California-Irvine or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of California-Irvine is the more affordable option at $14,251 per year versus $14,600.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of California-Irvine has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.4% vs 83.1%.

More Comparisons

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