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Purdue University-Main Campus vs University of Virginia-Main Campus

38 data points compared. Stronger value in each row highlighted. Sources: College Scorecard, Opportunity Insights, Times Higher Education, IPEDS.

10
Purdue Wins
7
Tied / N/A
21
University Wins

Overview

Public
Type
Public
Urban
Setting
Suburban
Great Lakes
Region
Southeast
44,503
Enrollment
17,597
No
HBCU
No

Admissions

50%
Acceptance Rate
17%
1364
SAT Average
1480
30
ACT Midpoint
34
1200-1480
SAT Range
1410-1540

Cost & Financial Aid

$9,992
In-State Tuition
$21,803
$28,794
Out-of-State Tuition
$59,512
$14,600
Average Net Price
$21,565
$5,098
Net Price ($0-30K income)
$8,174
$6,241
Net Price ($30-48K)
$9,696
$9,438
Net Price ($48-75K)
$13,283
$22,742
Net Price ($110K+)
$35,402
13%
Pell Grant Rate
16%
22%
Federal Loan Rate
20%

Academics

83%
Graduation Rate
95%
93%
Retention Rate
98%
96%
Full-Time Faculty
96%
$14,473
Faculty Salary (monthly)
$17,428
19%
First-Gen Students
16%

Student Body

47%
Female
55%
54%
White
49%
8%
Hispanic
8%
3%
Black
8%
15%
Asian
20%
0.67
Diversity Index
0.71

Outcomes

$60,838
Earnings (6yr)
$72,359
$66,951
Earnings (8yr)
$80,156
$72,424
Earnings (10yr)
$86,863
$19,500
Median Debt
$17,500
0.27x
Debt-to-Earnings
0.2x
80%
Earning Above HS
80%

Social Capital

1.67
Economic Connectedness
1.82
0.00
Friending Bias
-0.01
6.9%
Volunteering Rate
8.6%

The Overviews

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN · Public

50% accept 83% grad $72,424 earnings $14,600 net

With an enrollment of over 44,500 students, Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a solid choice for those who thrive in a large, dynamic environment. It’s particularly appealing for students interested in engineering, business, computer science, biology, and social sciences. The 50% acceptance rate suggests a competitive atmosphere, and the 83% graduation rate indicates that many students are successfully completing their degrees.

After graduation, students can expect a median earning of $72,424 after ten years. That’s a significant number, especially for graduates entering fields like engineering and technology. While the cost of attendance is reasonable, the long-term financial outlook is promising, making it clear that a degree from Purdue can lead to solid career opportunities.

When it comes to affordability, the net price after aid averages around $14,600, which is manageable for many families. With a median debt of $19,500, students leave with a debt load that is relatively low compared to potential earnings. Those who tend to thrive here are often self-motivated, ambitious, and ready to take advantage of the university's strong programs and supportive resources.

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public

17% accept 95% grad $86,863 earnings $21,565 net

With an acceptance rate of just 17%, the University of Virginia-Main Campus attracts students who are ready for an academically rigorous environment. It’s a great fit for those interested in a wide range of disciplines, particularly in humanities, social sciences, engineering, business, and computer science. Students here are not just looking for a degree; they’re aiming for a transformative college experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.

After graduation, students typically see solid returns on their investment. With a median earning of $86,863 ten years post-graduation, many graduates find themselves in a stable financial position. The affordable net price of $21,565 means that with careful planning and support, students can graduate with manageable debt, averaging around $17,500. This financial outlook is encouraging, especially for those who may worry about student loans impacting their future.

Ultimately, the practical aspects of attending UVA-Main Campus play a crucial role in student success. With a supportive environment, it’s a place where driven students can thrive, particularly those who are proactive about taking advantage of the resources available. This community fosters not just academic excellence but also personal growth, making it a smart choice for those ready to engage deeply in their education.

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