College Comparison
Northwestern University vs Purdue University: Which is Better?
Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.
School
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
School
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Northwestern | Purdue |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 7.1%wins | 50.3% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1490–1560wins | 1190–1460 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 33–35wins | 27–34 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $65,997 | $28,794wins |
| Avg Net Price | $27,143 | $13,945wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $89,363wins | $72,424 |
| Graduation Rate | 95.9%wins | 83.1% |
| Retention Rate | 97.4%wins | 92.0% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 6:1wins | 14:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 8,960 | 39,637wins |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Northwestern edges out Purdue on 7 of 10 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.
Northwestern Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 7.1%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1490–1560
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 33–35
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $89,363
Purdue Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $28,794
- ✓Avg Net Price: $13,945
- ✓Total Enrollment: 39,637
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