Unigo Top Student Rated School

Purdue University-Main Campus

Hovde Hall of Administration

West Lafayette, IN 47907-2040

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About Purdue University-Main Campus

Founded in 1869, Purdue University-Main Campus. is a Public college. Located in Indiana, which is a city setting in Indiana, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 31,105 full time undergraduate students, and 10,408 full time graduate students.

The Purdue University-Main Campus Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 12:1. There are 1989 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Purdue University-Main Campus include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate55%
Application Deadline
Application Fee60
SAT Range1070-1320
ACT Range25-31

Admissions at PU are considered Selective, with ,228% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 15 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

97% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 76% were in the top quarter, and 41% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE Reviews

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Purdue University-Main Campus.

4%
“We”re apathetic”
36%
“We know about current events and vote”
53%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
7%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
11%
“Sometimes, but not often”
60%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
27%
“All the time, including weekends”
2%
“I”m always terrified”
6%
“I only go out in groups”
32%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
61%
“I feel extremely safe”
3%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
23%
“We bought the gear”
74%
“We live for the big game”
13%
“It”s not really our thing”
34%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
47%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
6%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
7%
“Available in class”
62%
“They keep regular office hours”
27%
“They”re always available”
2%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
11%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
75%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
12%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
17%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
45%
“We only party on weekends”
35%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
10%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
67%
“There might be people who do”
20%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
3%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
4%
“We”re apathetic”
36%
“We know about current events and vote”
53%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
7%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
11%
“Sometimes, but not often”
60%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
27%
“All the time, including weekends”
2%
“I”m always terrified”
6%
“I only go out in groups”
32%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
61%
“I feel extremely safe”
3%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
23%
“We bought the gear”
74%
“We live for the big game”
13%
“It”s not really our thing”
34%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
47%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
6%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
7%
“Available in class”
62%
“They keep regular office hours”
27%
“They”re always available”
2%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
11%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
75%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
12%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
17%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
45%
“We only party on weekends”
35%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
10%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
67%
“There might be people who do”
20%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
3%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
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  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    419 Students rated on-campus housing 3.8 stars. 19 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    307 Students rated off-campus housing 3.8 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    438 Students rated campus food 4.2 stars. 46 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    442 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 37 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    441 Students rated class size 3.8 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    443 Students rated school activities 4.3 stars. 51 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    444 Students rated local services 3.8 stars. 31 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    443 Students rated academics 4.2 stars. 46 % gave the school a 5.0.

Purdue University-Main Campus REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of Purdue University-Main Campus?

193 Students rated Purdue University-Main Campus

Zoe
Prospective04/11/2025

Purdue’s engineering reputation is definitely a major draw, but beyond that, the hands-on learning opportunities really set it apart. The co-op programs, research opportunities, and strong industry partnerships (especially with companies like Eli Lilly) will give you real-world experience before you even graduate. Plus, the innovation-driven atmosphere at Purdue aligns perfectly with your goal of making an impact in the biomedical field. The campus culture is another big factor. With its mix of school spirit, academic rigor, and social opportunities, Purdue offers a well-rounded college experience. You’ll be able to challenge yourself academically while also enjoying the energy of Big Ten athletics, Greek life, and all the student organizations. And let's be honest—there’s nothing quite like game days in West Lafayette! Another great aspect is Purdue’s supportive community. While it’s a large school, it still has that welcoming Midwestern feel. You’ll meet so many driven, like-minded people who will push you to be your best while also making lifelong friendships. Would you like to highlight anything specific in your application—maybe a particular program, club, or opportunity that excites you the most? You said: more ChatGPT said: Another reason Purdue is a great choice for you is its commitment to innovation and leadership in STEM. The university is known for fostering groundbreaking research and technological advancements, which aligns perfectly with your aspirations in biomedical engineering. You’ll have access to cutting-edge labs, industry-leading professors, and research initiatives that could directly impact the medical field. Purdue’s alumni network is also a major advantage. With connections in top engineering and pharmaceutical companies (including Eli Lilly), you’ll have mentorship and career opportunities that can help you land internships and a full-time position after graduation. The strong presence of Purdue engineers in the workforce means you’ll be joining a legacy of success. Socially, Purdue offers the perfect balance of challenge and fun. With your interest in rushing, you’ll find a strong Greek community that provides leadership, service, and networking opportunities. You’ll also love the campus traditions—Grand Prix, Fountain Runs, and the legendary Purdue vs. IU rivalry games. Plus, with your love for sports, you’ll fit right in with the passionate Boilermaker fanbase. The university’s location is another plus. Being in Indiana means you stay relatively close to home while still gaining the independence of a large university experience. You’ll be able to visit family when needed but also fully immerse yourself in campus life.

Anderson
College04/09/2025

I am interested in attending Purdue University-Main Campus because of its strong commitment to academic excellence, diverse campus community, and the numerous opportunities it offers students to engage in both learning and personal growth. As a history major, I am especially drawn to Purdue's renowned College of Liberal Arts, which offers a well-rounded education in the humanities and encourages critical thinking, research, and analysis. Purdue’s history department stands out to me because of its dedicated faculty, who bring a wealth of knowledge in U.S. history and beyond. Their mentorship, combined with Purdue’s emphasis on hands-on learning and research, provides an ideal environment for me to deepen my understanding of the past and connect it to current global issues. The university’s access to resources like the Purdue University Archives and Special Collections also excites me as it offers students the chance to engage directly with historical materials, helping foster a deeper connection with history. The Purdue community is another major reason I chose the university. Its welcoming and diverse environment encourages students from all backgrounds to share their perspectives. Additionally, the vibrant campus life, with a range of student organizations and events, ensures that there are plenty of ways to stay engaged and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. I am especially looking forward to exploring the opportunities for involvement in history-related clubs or internships, which would enhance both my academic journey and my future career goals. Purdue’s blend of strong academic programs, a supportive community, and extracurricular opportunities makes it the perfect place for me to continue my education.

Sujay
Prospective04/07/2025

Since my visit to Purdue, I've been fascinated by the engineering programs and clubs it has there. The campus has a mixture of various majors and students from different backgrounds, which makes it an amazing place to study in for 4 years as you build your career and life goals around this open-minded campus.

Addison
Prospective04/04/2025

When I researched potential colleges for admission, I discovered that Purdue offers ample educational opportunities both in and outside of the classroom. While speaking with Purdue’s Teacher Education Recruiter, Ryan Farrell, I learned that Purdue’s course offerings are the result of a survey from recent alumni and administrators in the field of education. They were asked to suggest courses that would further improve their expertise in the classroom. As a result, Purdue now requires 13 credits in reading and 9 credits in English Language Learners, Special Education, High Abilities, or Applied Behavior Analysis. Knowing how to address these needs of children in their care is something that both alumni and student teachers thought was important; hence, that is why it was added into the curriculum. These requirements will help to prepare me for the various ability levels and special needs of students within my classroom. Outside of the classroom, Purdue offers unlimited opportunities for socialization and recreation. With so many opportunities to engage with people, it will force me to improve on my time management skills as well as my self-discipline.

Leila
03/19/2025

Purdue University is known primarily for it's computer science, pharmacy and engineering divisions, albeit they have a reputation in other fields as well. However, the student culture can be very toxic if you are not a part of these three colleges, because people often look down on you if you aren't. The student body is largely academically focused, and our party scene isn't the greatest. If you want to party, look towards joining a frat or sorority; that is where most of the parties occur. We are a weekend party school, not a weekday. Our food is not bad at all, there are five dining halls and a lot of to-go options for on campus dining. We have a pretty good variety of off-campus options as well, including a great ramen place and Indian restaurants, as well as boba and frozen yogurt. The on-campus housing is a 50/50 chance of you getting a good dorm or bad dorm. We have a couple very new nice dorms, and a couple horrible ones. It depends on where you are placed. The off-campus situation is horrible. It is very hard to find an affordable apartment near campus, and leases go out so quickly. If you want to be near campus you will pay over 1000 dollars a month minimum. Our academics are pretty good, the class sizes are huge during your freshman year. But overall, there are a lot of resources to help you. Overall, Purdue is a great school for your career goals and networking, however it has a few flaws in regards to campus life. The campus is gorgeous though!

Elizabeth
02/26/2025

Purdue University is a great place to feel safe and welcomed. Almost at every corner, there is a blue-light that allows you to access safety if you or someone else is in danger. Everyone at Purdue gives a welcoming, friendly vibe and it makes you feel safe. The dorms are very nice and a perfect size for students. Overall, Purdue is a great school and I love it!

Jade
01/22/2025

Visiting Purdue University's main campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, was an impressive experience. The University is known for its world-class engineering and science programs, highly visible in its strong focus on innovation and academic rigor. The campus is a beautiful blend of historic architecture and modern buildings!

Ashley
01/21/2025

Purdue is a really nice campus with kind and intelligent people. Purdue has been known to have issues with housing, but if you can get around that, it's not bad at all. There are lots of places to study on campus, though they can get a little crowded. There are also several fast food places and multiple dining halls to choose from, which actually have really goof food most of the time. Overall, Purdue is a nice university and will give you a great education.

Ashley
01/21/2025

Purdue is a really nice campus with kind and intelligent people. Purdue has been known to have issues with housing, but if you can get around that, it's not bad at all. There are lots of places to study on campus, though they can get a little crowded. There are also several fast food places and multiple dining halls to choose from, which actually have really goof food most of the time. Overall, Purdue is a nice university and will give you a great education.

Lily
12/01/2024

Something that really stuck out while I visited Purdue's campus was how alive the campus felt, while touring I saw hundreds of people walking from class to class. It gave me a feeling of how this campus acts as its own little town as well, creating a small environment for me to grow socially and intellectually. I feel as though this is my top choice as a current high school senior, and I am happy to say so.

Bart
06/11/2024

A institution of learning with a passion for students to stay on the journey to succeed in being tomorrow's best. When I enrolled in March 2024; the hardest thing is patiently waiting for response on the multiple transcripts I have submitted. At Purdue University. I feel more than a student. A scholar with a passion to learn , to laugh and live the dream which is FEMA.

Jaimie
04/01/2024

When I first came to Purdue, I noticed that it has a very lively campus that encourages diversity and inclusion. This campus is very welcoming and celebrates all interests in a way that accurately reflects the schools values. Yes, it is known for its high quality academics and education, but Purdue promotes social gatherings just as much!

Molly
02/12/2024

With my time at Purdue University, I do not have one bad thing to say about it. The campus provides so many resources for any of your needs. The campus may be large but they find a way to make it feel very inclusive, and feel like you are a part of something.

Nathan
12/29/2023

Purdue has been great with opportunities for both my academic and social life. The courses are rigorous and challenging but there are plenty of resources to support students and help them learn the material. There are numerous clubs to get involved with on campus too which is great. The social scene is what you make of it, but I think that there is a diverse community and welcoming environment.

Reagan
10/29/2023

Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana is an excellent university for Engineering, Aeronautics, Pharmacy and Computer Technology degrees. I knew that I would receive an unparalleled education at Purdue. The knowledgeable and helpful professors are excited about their subjects of teaching and the classes are excellent and engaging. Despite the big campus atmosphere, Purdue still maintains small-school feel within its individual colleges. As for campus life, all students seem to find a place to fit in, ultimately, and students note that the atmosphere on campus coaxes most out of their shell sooner or later.

Purdue University-Main Campus FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at Purdue University-Main Campus?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Purdue University-Main Campus is 55%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.

  2. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    My advice to myself would be quite simple: Don't worry, everything will work itself out. When you go to college, it's an easy transition. You'll find friends, you'll lose some friends, but everything will work out, even if it seems like the end at the time of the rocky steps. You'll fall into a fantastic hobby, find out who your true friends are, and find out what you're destined to do with your life...and realize that Purdue University was the best decision. Without it, you wouldn't have found out your true self and never would have discovered how amazing life can be. If there is one thing to remember it's this: Don't be afraid, for there will only come good things, even if the good comes through a loss.

    Read all 413 answers
  3. Describe the students at your school.

    Classmates are hard workers.

    Read all 129 answers
  4. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    The worst thing about Purdue is the location. West Lafayette is a very small town and there is not much to do unless you are 21. It is very much a college town and everything is based around Purdue. Also, the greek system at Purdue is huge and at times it seems that if you are not part of the greek community that you are almost an outcast.

    Read all 101 answers
  5. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    Traditions are very important at Purdue, which made it a lot of fun. From not walking under the Bell Tower to breakfast club, learning the uniquely Purdue things made you feel included.

    Read all 87 answers
  6. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    Purdue University, main campus and satellite campuses provide a world class education while minimizing living expenses & disruptions in employment; the nursing department staff members are outgoing, supportive & incredibly knowledgeable.

    Read all 83 answers
  7. What's unique about your campus?

    Size is the best thing about Purdue. It allows for a lot of diversity and a strong academic program, along with allowing students to find their respective niches. Basically there's something for everyone, but we're all tied together with alot of school spirit.

    Read all 81 answers
  8. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    I wish I knew not to take on so much responsibility.

    Read all 76 answers
  9. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    People with no motivation.

    Read all 68 answers
  10. What is your overall opinion of this school?

    My overall opinion of Purdue University is that it is among the top schools in the nation to attend for the advancement of education and life skills. One experience that I will always remember was the day I moved into my dorm at Purdue. It was one of the best days of my life. Before I even came to Purdue they made me feel like I was already a student by constantly sending me newsletters, updates, and letting me know of the opportunities awaiting me when I arrived. When I did get to Purdue, it did not disappoint. Prospective students may worry that the school seems very large and overwhelming. Although the university is large, it hosts many different organizations and clubs that allow for the personal connections of a smaller school. This made it really easy to make friends almost immediately. The fact that Purdue offers so many different opportunities for students to meet others and get involved on campus and in the local community is one thing that makes it so great. In fact, there are over 880 clubs and organizations that any student can get involved in! Not only is Purdue focused on student involvement but also faculty involvement. I truly believe that the university offers world class professors. I have never taken a class with a professor who was not willing to speak with or help a student individually- even in a class that has 400 people! This makes it much easier for students to excel in the classroom. Another favorite part about Purdue for me is the intense school pride. Thousands of students attend athletic events each week and when you walk through campus you will notice most people proudly sporting their Purdue apparel. There is even a small train driven around campus that students can ride on called "The Boilermaker Special." The Boilermaker Special makes its rounds each day to remind us of our Boilermaker pride! While all of these staples of Purdue make me proud to attend this university, the thing that I love most is that it provides students with endless opportunities each and every day. In my time here I have learned that my college experience is whatever I want to make it and at Purdue University the sky is the limit.

    Read all 66 answers
  11. What are the academics like at your school?

    Way too many international students in engineering. Especially Asians! It is very true as Purdue ranks very high in terms of international student population (looked it up in the year 2011 annual report) especially in the engineering majors.

    Read all 58 answers
  12. What kind of person should attend this school?

    Any person should attend Purdue University. This college is the number one college in diversity in the nation, thus creating an environment any student can feel comfortable in. The campus is large, but is set up so it is easy to navigate. There are infinite clubs and activities to participate in, so students will easily create a "home away from home" at the college.

    Read all 57 answers
  13. What are the most popular student activities/groups?

    I do not know. Popular is untouchable to me.

    Read all 57 answers
  14. What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

    The most frustrating thing is that Lafayette isn't a big city... if you want to go to a big city you have to go to either Indianapolis or Chicago, and since freshman can't own cars, that's almost completely out of the question. Another personally frustrating thing about Indiana in general is the weather, but since I came from Hawaii I'm a little, I suppose, "sensitive" when it comes to cold and rain. Many people at the campus are from Indiana and already know each other, but there are also many people who don't know anyone.

    Read all 55 answers
  15. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    Purdue is best known for it's engineering college and it's reputation for producing NFL quarterbacks.

    Read all 53 answers
  16. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    academic focus

    Read all 53 answers
  17. Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?

    Although Purdue is very well known for engineering and there are a lot of engineering students on campus, there are also plenty of students in different majors. Purdue has great academics in just about every area so along with the engineers you will find many agriculture, liberal arts, and management students to name a few.

    Read all 51 answers
  18. What is the stereotype of students at your school?

    We are a bunch of nerdy engineers.

    Read all 50 answers
  19. What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

    There are several stereotypes, both good and bad describing the Greek system at Purdue. The first common stereotype is that people in the Greek system party excessively, do not choose challenging majors, and think they are better than everyone else. The second stereotype revolves around the belief that people in the Greek system are more involved than others, having higher GPA's, and have a massive amount of school spirit. People generally believe one of the two depending on their own personal beliefs, values, and judgments. Engineering majors are generally though of as anti-social,socially awkward, yet well-respected because everyone knows they are going to make a lot of money someday. People from overseas and all other non-caucasian individuals are generally thought of as being rich for affording out-of-state tuition. Athletes are stereotyped as being unintelligent, yet well-respected for their athletic achievements.

    Read all 21 answers
  20. Tell us about the sports scene on campus.

    On days of home basketball games, volleyball games, or, of course, football games, there's nowhere better to be than in Ross-Ade Stadium, Mackey Arena, or the Intercollegiate Athletic Facility to get your Purdue spirit fix! Games will be talked about for days before and after they happen. It's all about the Big Ten atmosphere of our sports... and they're never a boring watch (even if our teams don't win every game)!

    Read all 6 answers
  21. What's the Greek scene like?

    Greek life here at Purdue accounts for just under 20{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the overall student population. This may sound like a small number, but twenty percent of 40,000 is a pretty large number of students! Most people don't feel any pressure to join any sort of Greek or Co-op house, but many choose to do so anyway. Over all, it seems to be at the perfect balance of being very active and useful on campus and also not feeling like the "thing to do" to incoming students

    Read all 5 answers

Student Body

Students

42%

female

58%

male

31,105

Total Undergrad Enrollment

10,408

Total Grad Students

33%

Out-Of-State

54%

In-State

13%

International

Organizations

948

Student Organizations

50

Fraternities

31

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

29%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
7%
% Black or African-American
3%
% Hispanic/Latino
5%
% White or Caucasian
64%

TUITION & AID

All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA. Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.

65% of students attending Purdue University-Main Campus receive some sort of financial aid. 19% were awarded federal grants.33%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$28,804

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$1,220

Books and Supplies

$10,030

Room and Board

40,054

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$4,250
$30 - $48K
$6,005
$48 - $75K
$10,828
$75 - $110K
$17,605
$110K & UP
$21,323

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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