How hard is it to get into Purdue University?
With a 53% acceptance rate, Purdue University is selective — attainable for solid, well-prepared applicants. It enrolls roughly 37,000 undergraduates (small city setting) in West Lafayette, IN. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.
What it takes to get in
- SAT: admitted students land around 1200–1430 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
- ACT: the middle 50% is about 26–33.
- GPA: admitted students average around 3.75. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
- Testing policy: Test required. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
- Essays: at Purdue University's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.
Cost
Published tuition is about $28,794 out-of-state ($9,992 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.
Notable programs
Engineering · Computer Science · Pharmacy · Aviation
Score your Purdue University essays, free
Great numbers get you in the room; the essays get you in. Paste your draft into Halo for instant, rubric-based feedback. Halo never writes your essay for you.
Try Halo freePurdue University admissions FAQ
- What is Purdue University's acceptance rate?
- Purdue University's acceptance rate is 53%, which makes it selective — attainable for solid, well-prepared applicants.
- What SAT or ACT score do you need for Purdue University?
- Admitted students typically score about 1200–1430 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 26–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
- Is Purdue University test-optional?
- Purdue University's current testing policy is: Test required. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.
Sources & official links
- Purdue University official website
- Purdue University on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
- Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.
Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Purdue University’s official admissions site.