Overview
Founded in 1869 as a land-grant institution in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue University has grown into one of the nation's leading public research universities, particularly celebrated for its engineering, agriculture, aviation, and computer science programs. Known as the 'Cradle of Astronauts' for producing more astronauts than any public university, Purdue's academic reputation rests on rigorous STEM training combined with strong industry partnerships and a long tradition of practical, hands-on education. The university has maintained a tuition freeze for over a decade, reinforcing its commitment to accessibility alongside academic excellence.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | West Lafayette, Indiana |
| Founded | 1869 |
| Total students | 50,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 12:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 60% |
| Graduation rate | 83% |
| Average starting salary | $70,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $9,992 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $28,794 |
| Room & board | $11,530 |
| Average financial aid | $15,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 70% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1180-1440 |
| ACT range | 26-33 |
| Average GPA | 3.7 |
| Regular deadline | January 15 |
Top Programs
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Aviation Technology
- Agriculture
- Pharmacy
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.