University of Pennsylvania vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Philadelphia, PA — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Philadelphia, PA West Lafayette, IN
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 10,650 44,503
Acceptance Rate 5.4% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,553 1,364
In-State Tuition $68,686 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $68,686 $28,794
Avg Net Price $28,699 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $15,715 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 96.7% 83.1%
Retention Rate 98.9% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $90,555 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $111,371 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 202200.0% 887400.0%

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

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University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Pennsylvania and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) has an acceptance rate of 5.4%, in-state tuition of $68,686, and median 10-year earnings of $111,371. 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 Pennsylvania or Purdue University-Main Campus?
University of Pennsylvania graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $111,371 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Pennsylvania 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 $28,699.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Pennsylvania has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.7% vs 83.1%.

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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