Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University vs Purdue University-Main Campus

Blacksburg, VA — West Lafayette, IN

Metric
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
Location Blacksburg, VA West Lafayette, IN
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 30,923 44,503
Acceptance Rate 54.8% 49.9%
SAT Average 1,364 1,364
In-State Tuition $15,948 $9,992
Out-of-State Tuition $37,764 $28,794
Avg Net Price $24,953 $14,600
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 86.3% 83.1%
Retention Rate 93.1% 92.7%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $67,377 $60,838
Median Earnings (10 yr) $81,698 $72,424
Loan Repayment Rate 661700.0% 887400.0%

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

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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and Purdue University-Main Campus compare?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 54.8%, in-state tuition of $15,948, and median 10-year earnings of $81,698. 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, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University or Purdue University-Main Campus?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $81,698 vs $72,424. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University 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 $24,953.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.3% 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