College Comparison
Purdue University vs University of Massachusetts-Amherst: 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 Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Purdue | UMass Amherst |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 50.3%wins | 57.8% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1190–1460 | 1300–1480wins |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 27–34 | 29–33wins |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $28,794wins | $39,293 |
| Avg Net Price | $13,945wins | $23,691 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $72,424wins | $71,631 |
| Graduation Rate | 83.1% | 83.2%wins |
| Retention Rate | 92.0%wins | 91.0% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 14:1wins | 18:1 |
| Total Enrollment | 39,637wins | 23,694 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Purdue edges out UMass Amherst 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
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 50.3%
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $28,794
- ✓Avg Net Price: $13,945
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $72,424
UMass Amherst Strengths
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1300–1480
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 29–33
- ✓Graduation Rate: 83.2%
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