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College Comparison

Purdue University vs University of Rochester: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN

School

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricPurdueU of Rochester
Acceptance Rate50.3%35.9%wins
SAT Range (25th–75th)1190–14601400–1540wins
ACT Range (25th–75th)27–3431–34wins
Tuition (Out-of-State)$28,794wins$64,348
Avg Net Price$13,945wins$30,248
Median Earnings (10 yr)$72,424$79,042wins
Graduation Rate83.1%84.5%wins
Retention Rate92.0%92.5%wins
Student–Faculty Ratio14:19:1wins
Total Enrollment39,637wins6,488

Verdict

Based on the data above, U of Rochester 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.

Purdue Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $28,794
  • Avg Net Price: $13,945
  • Total Enrollment: 39,637

U of Rochester Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 35.9%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1400–1540
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 31–34
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $79,042

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