Purdue University's published cost of attendance reaches $22,567 per year for in-state students, including $9,992 in tuition, $11,650 for room and board, and $1,030 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face significantly higher tuition of $28,794.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $24,591 |
| Tuition and Fees | $28,794 |
| Room and Board | $12,820 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,070 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$9,991 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $14,600 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $5,098 |
| $30–48k | $6,241 |
| $48–75k | $9,438 |
| $75–110k | $18,177 |
| $110k+ | $22,742 |
Purdue University's published cost of attendance reaches $22,567 per year for in-state students, including $9,992 in tuition, $11,650 for room and board, and $1,030 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face significantly higher tuition of $28,794. However, the average student pays substantially less after financial aid, with a net price of $13,945 representing savings of $8,622 from the sticker price.
This net price falls $1,645 below the peer median of $15,590, making Purdue more affordable than similar large public research universities. The financial aid system creates progressive pricing across income levels, with the lowest-income students paying just $4,927 while the highest-income families pay $21,130. This $16,203 gap between lowest and highest income tiers demonstrates significant aid targeting toward students with the greatest financial need.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Purdue graduates accumulate median debt of $19,500, positioning slightly below the peer median of $20,000 by $500. Debt levels vary considerably, ranging from $7,500 at the 25th percentile to $26,623 at the 75th percentile, reflecting different borrowing patterns and financial circumstances.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 indicates manageable borrowing relative to post-graduation income, with graduates typically earning enough to service debt obligations comfortably. Parent PLUS loans average $26,794 with monthly payments of approximately $353, representing additional family borrowing beyond student debt levels.
The combination of moderate debt levels and strong earnings creates favorable conditions for loan repayment. Debt outcomes at the 72nd percentile nationally reflect reasonable borrowing levels that support rather than hinder post-graduation financial stability.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Purdue delivers solid return on educational investment through the combination of controlled costs and strong earnings outcomes. Graduates earn $11,881 more than the peer median while borrowing $500 less in student debt, creating favorable investment dynamics.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 indicates sustainable borrowing levels that support long-term financial health. Return on investment performance at the 88.6th percentile demonstrates well above average outcomes in this critical measure.
However, earnings fall $6,551 below expectations compared to similar students nationally, suggesting the institution's value comes primarily from program strength rather than exceptional uplift beyond student inputs. The combination of moderate selectivity, strong technical programs, and reasonable costs creates a solid value proposition for students seeking STEM education with predictable financial outcomes.
Purdue's financial aid approach creates meaningful savings for students across income levels, with average aid covering $8,622 of educational costs. The institution's 13.0% Pell share, while below national averages for public institutions, reflects the student population benefiting from federal need-based aid.
The progressive net price structure demonstrates institutional commitment to access, with the lowest-income students receiving aid that covers nearly 80% of the total cost of attendance. Net prices below peer medians indicate competitive positioning within the public university landscape.
The financial aid system supports Purdue's role as a Selective Achievers institution, providing strong outcomes while maintaining some level of economic accessibility despite lower Pell enrollment than typical public universities.
