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Purdue University, West Lafayette

Indiana, United States of America | Estd in 1869 | Government University

THE Rank : 86 | QS Rank : 99

Updated onSep 13, 2024 10:00 AM IST
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About Purdue University

Purdue University is a public research university established in 1869. Purdue University's main campus is located in West Lafayette. Purdue University’s acceptance rate is 53%. This indicates that the chances of Purdue University's admission are quite high for international students. Purdue University's admission authorities are less selective and liberal in giving out access to the university as well. Moreover, Purdue University’s GPA requirement is high with at least 3.0 out of 4.0 to get admitted to undergraduate and graduate courses.

Purdue University's Latest Updates

All international students must fill and complete as well as submit the application form before Purdue University's deadlines to be considered for admission. The latest Purdue University's deadlines are mentioned below:

  • The nearest deadline for Purdue University UG admissions is November 1 for Early Action type and January 15 for regular decisions.

  • Purdue University's graduate admission deadlines vary as per the course structure.

Purdue University's ranking worldwide is in the top 100 universities in the USA as per QS, THE, and US News in 2024. This university is known as an excellent school for Engineering as one of the best Purdue University's courses.  It is also known for its research work and is classified as one of the “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" in the USA universities. 

Purdue University’s tuition fee for Indian students is Rs 25,78,000 approximately per year.  Purdue University's courses are known as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses which are offered at all levels of study. Purdue University’s popular courses include Engineering, Chemistry, Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Education, and Physics and Astronomy.

As per Purdue University's entry requirements, one may or may not be required to attempt the SAT or ACT for undergraduate-level studies. Purdue University's graduate courses require international students to attempt the GRE OR GMAT. Purdue University accepts a GRE or GMAT score only if required (Purdue Executive MBA Programme does not require GMAT for most applicants). 

Purdue University’s application fee is USD 75 (Rs 6,252 approx) to apply to any of the graduate full-time courses. It is non-refundable. Purdue University’s application for UG programmes is processed through the common application and the website charges a nominal fee for the same.

The student enrollment of Purdue University is approximately 52,211 total students as of Fall, 2023. Purdue's West Lafayette campus is represented by students from all 50 states of the USA and nearly 130 countries. There are around 39,170 UG students, 12,136 PG students, and 905 professional study students.

Purdue University’s main campus is located at West Lafayette, and it has three regional campuses Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Hammond, and Westville. Also, Purdue University is home to more than 9450 international students. The university impressively houses the ninth-largest foreign student population among the USA universities.

Some of the Purdue University’s notable alumni are Neil Armstrong (Professor, Astronaut), Jim Gaffigan (Comedian, Television producer, Film Producer), Drew Brees (Athlete, American football player), Herman Cain (Businessperson, Politician, Journalist), William Afflis (Wrestler, Actor, American football player), Loren Shriver (Astronaut), and many more.

Notable Alumni of Purdue University

Purdue University has an alumni network of 600,000+ people, contributing to the university in various ways. Some of the notable alumni and laureates of Purdue are mentioned in the table below.

Purdue University Notable Alumni:

Personalities 

Professions 

Neil Armstrong

Professor, Astronaut

Jim Gaffigan


Comedian, Television producer, Film Producer

Drew Brees

Athlete, American football player

Herman Cain


Businessperson, Politician, Journalist

William Afflis


Wrestler, Actor, American football player

Robert C. Baker

Inventor, Scientist

Loren Shriver

Astronaut

Brad Miller

Basketball player


Is Purdue University worth it?

Yes, Purdue University is worth it as a higher education institute. This university is one of the most prestigious public universities located in the United States. Purdue University rankings were quite high for 2024 as per different official ranking bodies such as QS, THE, US News, and many more.

To be exact, Purdue University’s rankings are 99th in the QS and 86th in THE in 2024. Also, Purdue University's Graduate Employability Ranking of 2024 was impressive at 36th rank. 

Also Read: Benefits of studying in the USA

Purdue University Highlights

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Year of Establishment1869
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Institute TypeUniversity
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OwnershipPublic/Government
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Number Of Students1000
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Campus Size2307 acres
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Faculty Count2909
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Acceptance Rate69%
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Fee Range₹20.17 L - ₹31.97 L/yr
Gender Ratio
Male: 50%Female: 50%
Male: 50%Female: 50%

Purdue University Ranking and Stats

Purdue University QS rankings are at 99th under “World University Rankings” in 2024. Under the same category, Purdue University’s THE rankings is at 86th place. The university is ranked one place ahead of Glasgow University, which is ranked 87th in THE World University Rankings. Moreover, Purdue University's ranking worldwide is 43rd out of 439 National Universities as per the rankings given by US News & World Report, 2024. 

Purdue University is well known. Purdue University is among the top public universities in the USA. The university has ranked 8th in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programmes. Several Purdue University courses such as Computer Science, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences among others are top-ranked globally.

Why is Purdue ranked so high?

Purdue University's Rankings worldwide are impressive and exceptional due to its global reputation among other universities. Also, Purdue University has earned high marks in the percentage of full-time faculty, in reputation among peers, and in a new metric that measures graduates' earning potential.

Ranking Body
THE
Subject
Overall

Parametric Score and Ranking 2024

Overall Score68.5
University rank86
Parameter Ranking
Citations
71.8
Industry Outcome
84.3
International Outlook
76.7
Research
65.3
Teaching
64

Ranking by year

Ranking

Show adjacently ranked institutions

Score
Rank
Purdue University, West Lafayette
Adjacently Ranked Colleges

Purdue University Courses

Purdue University provides a wide range of more than 200 undergraduate and over 160 graduate courses across the fields of engineering, computer science, data science, social sciences, humanities, health and medicine, etc. Professional degrees are offered in veterinary medicine, pharmacy, and doctor of nursing practice. Purdue University’s courses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

Purdue University's popular courses for Indian students seeking admission on-campus include courses of studies at all levels in the fields of Engineering, Chemistry, Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Education, Physics and Astronomy. The most known part is STEM-based Purdue University's courses (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) at all levels of study. Purdue University online courses are also available for international students.

Purdue University Fees

Purdue University’s fees are calculated based on credit hours per semester. The full-time Purdue University undergraduate students must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours (maximum 21), and graduate students must complete a minimum of 8 credit hours. Purdue University’s fees are calculated by multiplying the total credit hours attended with the cost per unit credit. The average Purdue University fee in Indian rupees is around Rs 25.78 Lakh/year. 

What are the top-ranked programmes at Purdue University?

Purdue University courses are well-ranked and appreciated by the official ranking bodies in 2024. The top-ranked Purdue University courses in the USA are Engineering studies (4th in the USA) including Aeronautics and Astronautics (5), Civil Engineering (7), Industrial Engineering (7), Mechanical Engineering (8), and Computer Engineering (9). Some other popular Purdue University courses are Chemistry, Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Education, and Physics and Astronomy.

Accreditations
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Education Level
Select
Stream
Select
Mode
Select
LevelUG
MajorMathematics
Duration48 Months
Fees30.14 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,ACT,SAT,DET
LevelUG
MajorComputer
Duration48 Months
Fees30.14 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,ACT,SAT,DET
LevelUG
Duration48 Months
Fees30.14 L/yr
LevelUG
MajorMedical
Duration48 Months
Fees30.14 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,ACT,SAT,DET
LevelUG
Duration48 Months
Fees30.14 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,ACT,SAT,DET
LevelUG
MajorNuclear
Duration48 Months
Fees30.14 L/yr
Exams AcceptedIELTS,TOEFL,ACT,SAT,DET

Purdue University Fees

CoursesDurationInternational StudentLocal Student
BS(217 courses)2 years-5 years₹20.17 L - ₹31.97 L/yr₹8.28 L - ₹12.75 L/yr
B.A.(62 courses)4 years₹30.14 L/yr₹10.92 L/yr
B.F.A.(4 courses)4 years₹30.14 L/yr₹10.92 L/yr
B.A.(Hons)(3 courses)4 years₹30.14 L/yr₹10.92 L/yr

Purdue University Cost Of Living

International students should budget around USD 48,000 at least for one academic year for living expenses including the tuition cost. The cost of living in off-campus accommodations may vary with the rental costs but students can expect around USD 48,800 minimum.

Moreover, international students can use the below table to find estimates of living costs for 2023-2024.

Purdue University Cost of living for international students

Expense List

Expenses (2023-24) in USD

Tuition Fees

31,104

Food & Accommodation

11,650 (on-campus)

12,390 (off-campus)

Study Materials/Coursebooks

1,030

Transportation

2,180

Miscellaneous Costs

2,180

Total 

48,004 (on-campus)

48,744 (off-campus)


Is it expensive to study at Purdue University?

Purdue University is neither too expensive nor too expensive. Purdue University's tuition fee is just a little higher than the average tuition fee for international students in the USA. Purdue University's living expenses vary as per the student. One can expect an approximate amount of USD 17,000 for the cost of living at Purdue University. 

Is West Lafayette cheap to live in?

Purdue University's main campus is situated in West Lafayette. It is one of the areas in Indiana, USA. West Lafayette is one of the places with a low cost of living. Hence, Purdue University is highly recommended by all international students. The cost of living in West Lafayette is 9% less than the national living costs of the USA.

Purdue University Admission and Application

Application deadline December,2024

Purdue University admission is based on the eligibility criteria ranging from the course and programme of choice. Purdue University's admission procedure is neither too easy nor too hard as its acceptance rate is 53%. 

How to Apply to Purdue University?

Purdue University's application form for graduate and undergraduate courses is available on the official website of Purdue University. The undergraduate degree seekers can apply through a common application as well. However, Purdue University graduate course applications are accepted through the university admission portal.

One can follow the following steps to successfully apply at Purdue University:

  • Visit the web-home address of Purdue University
  • Click on "Become a student"
  • Scroll down to find the options to "Apply Now"
  • Click on either "First-year students" or "Graduate students"
  • Click on "Learn more"
  • First-year students: one can access the application form link for common applications as per the term available.
  • Graduate students: one must click on the "Application account"
  • Create an account
  • Add relevant information and qualifications
  • Pay the application fee and submit the Purdue University's application form

Purdue University Entry Requirements

Purdue University admission is granted to international students if the applicants meet all the academic and English language requirements of the selected degree programme offered at Purdue University. However, the common eligibility criteria are enlisted here:

For Undergraduate degree-seeking students:

  • Purdue University GPA requirements for Senior Secondary School (class 12th) are a minimum of 3.0 (85%).

  • They may be required to provide SAT /ACT scores if required.

  • Applicants must meet the English proficiency requirements.

For Graduate degree-seeking students:

  • Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in the relevant field of study.

  • Purdue University GPA requirements for bachelor’s degree study are a minimum of 3.0 out of 4.0.

  • GRE scores as per the requirements of the selected programme (if required).

  • GMAT scores for MBA, as per the requirements (Purdue Executive MBA Program does not require GMAT for most applicants).

  • Applicants must meet the English proficiency requirements.

  • Candidates must meet any other programme or course-specific requirements.

Documents Required For Admission to Purdue University

The mandatory common documents required to apply at Purdue University's courses are mentioned below:

Purdue University Application Deadlines 

It is highly recommended to apply before Purdue University application deadlines. All undergraduate degree-seeking applicants at Purdue University must apply before November 1 for the Early Action decision type and January 15 for the Regular decision type. The application deadlines vary for graduate courses as per the college requirements.

Purdue University Application Fee

Purdue University’s application fee for Indian students is USD 75 to apply to graduate courses directly from the university’s defined admission application portal. All undergraduate applications are acceptable via the common application.

Purdue University Acceptance Rate

Purdue University’s acceptance rate is approximately 53% for international students. Hence, the competition is less for international students who aspire to be a part of Purdue University. The university is moderately selective.

Purdue University Scholarship

Purdue University’s scholarships for international students are merit-based, as need-based scholarships are unavailable for international students.

Some of the fellowship awards offered at Purdue University for international graduate students include the AIER Summer Fellowship Practicum, Albright Institute Fellowships, and Amelia Earhart Fellowships, etc. 

Moreover, there are several external scholarships in the USA that can fund education at Purdue. The eligibility, awards, and application process for these scholarships may vary and students can avail of this information through their respective websites. Some of these scholarships are:

  • Narotam Sekhsaria’s Scholarships

  • Jane M Klausman Women in Business Scholarship

  • Education for Sustainable Energy Development (ESED)  

  • Hani Zeini Scholarship

  • QS Scholarship For Academic Excellence

  • William Schantz Grant

  • Generation Google Scholarship - USA

Does Purdue University give full scholarships to international students?

No, Purdue University's scholarships are not fully funded for international students. However, there are a lot of opportunities to cover tuition via merit-based scholarships. All international students are assessed under the measure of academic performance and standing. Some of Purdue University's graduate scholarships include AIER Summer Fellowship Practicum, Albright Institute Fellowships, and Amelia Earhart Fellowships, etc. 

Read more:  Scholarships in USA for Indian Students 

Purdue University Eligibility

As per Purdue University's entry requirements, one must satisfy the entry requirements such as GPA minimum scores, SAT/ACT, GRE/GMAT, etc. Along with these qualifications, there are English language requirements as well for international students

English language requirements for Purdue University 

International applicants applying for Purdue University's admission are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English through the English proficiency test scores. Undergraduate students who have not taken any English proficiency exam (i.e., DET, IELTS, or TOEFL) may be subject to an English placement exam upon enrollment at Purdue University. A detailed table for English Language Requirements for Purdue University is mentioned in the table below.

English Proficiency Tests Scores accepted at Purdue University:

English Exams

Undergraduate

Graduate

TOEFL iBT 

80 to 88 

80+

IELTS Academic

6.5

6.5

Duolingo English Tests (DET)

110

115

ACT (English section)

26+

N.A.

SAT (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EBRW) section)

600+

N.A.


Note: English proficiency test scores for Undergraduate studies are course-specific. Applicants can check the required proficiency level under their selected degree course.

Purdue University Campus Facilities

Study Amenities

Library

Purdue University has an extensive library System for student's utility. There are six subject-oriented libraries, the Hicks Undergraduate Library, the Virginia Kelly Karnes Archives and Special Collections Research Center in Purdue University. Students can access 3,317,331 printed volumes and ebooks, 227,814 print and e-journals, and more than 400, 000 government documents and microforms through the campus library system. In addition to online resources, students can request from 6,00,000 volumes in closed stacks. 

Purdue University provides e-Pubs digital repository, where students can access full-text publications, unique, and previously unpublished scholarly content. While most libraries remain closed on Saturdays and Sundays, timings on other weekdays are between 8 AM-5 PM or 9 AM - 6 AM. Some libraries need an appointment to visit and some libraries have access only between specific times. 

Laboratories

Purdue University has many state-of-the-art research facilities, laboratories in the university. 135 university-recognized research centres and institutes, including 48 in the life sciences arena. The university focuses more on interdisciplinary research for which the departmental labs and exclusive research facilities act as bridges.

Along with laboratories, there are centres of excellence for research in Biological sciences, medicine, pharmacy, environmental safety as well as women’s health. Every department has its own laboratories for intersecting theoretical studies with practical understanding. Popular laboratories are Birck Nanotechnology Center (BNC), Bowen Laboratory, FlexLab, Ray W. Herrick Laboratories, Maurice J. Zucrow Laboratories.

  • Bowen Laboratory undertakes Large-Scale Civil Engineering Research where there are advanced facilities for materials and structural testing.

  • Flex Lab is an Engineering laboratory where interdisciplinary research is in the areas of advanced manufacturing, imaging, information technology and medical devices.

  • Herrick Laboratories are Mechanical Engineering labs that support research in HVAC and refrigeration, noise and vibration control, perception-based engineering and engines and exhaust systems. 

  • Zucrow Labs serves Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering studies and it is the largest academic propulsion lab in the world.

Sports

Sports

There are plenty of sports infrastructure and competitive gaming facilities available for Purdue University students. There are dozens of Intramural sports like inner tube to water polo to basketball which offer a way to simply stay active. Students interested in athletics can join 30+ club sports where they have the opportunity to compete at a high level with other institutions.

Purdue University Students can take up serious athletic games in sports clubs that include Archery, Badminton, Baseball, Ice Hockey, Cricket, Gymnastics, Swimming, Men’s Rugby, Women’s Rugby, and many more. There are Climbing and Bouldering facilities available for recreational purposes where students can get trained and participate.

There are indoor and outdoor stadiums at Purdue University to host university-level competitions. Ross–Ade Stadium is the home field for Purdue Boilermakers football. The stadium started in 1924 and has a seating capacity over 62000. Other Purdue University stadiums are

  • Mackey Complex (BasketBall)

  • Alexander Field (Base Ball)

  • Lambert Fieldhouse

  • Hefner Soccer Complex

  • Hilliard Gates Sports Center

  • Stuart Field

Transportation

Transport Facility

Purdue university has free public bus transportation for college students, staff and faculty. All students with ID cards can travel in the GoCityBuses free of cost. The services can be checked through an exclusive app to know the route maps, bus stops etc. All students have to do is to spot the bus stop, wave their hand, and get to the desired location free of cost. Usually, the expenses are billed in University living costs.

Purdue University students are advised to familiarise themselves with campus Loop and regular routes operated by buses and enjoy free rides throughout Lafayette and West Lafayette.

Students can also make use of Car and Van rentals on a paid basis to fulfil their transportation needs. Alternatively, they can use bicycles to get around the Purdue University campus. Purdue University also facilitates buying of bikes or scooters. While using the latter type of transportation, the parking must be done at designated areas only.

Infrastructure

Medical/Hospital

Purdue University Student Health Service is called PUSH through which students can make use of high-quality primary healthcare at the university. Medical services are available to students and their spouses. While the charges for office visits are free for continuing, full-time students who have paid the student fee, their spouses and dependents have to pay charges for any consultation.

Available Medical Services at Purdue University

  • Physical examination

  • Medication administration

  • Laboratory tests

  • X-rays

  • Physical therapy

Purdue University students can get treatment for both acute and chronic medical conditions in the facilities. There are respiratory treatments, dressing changes, and intravenous infusions services for students who need them.

Auditorium

Purdue university encourages fraternities and 900 student organisations based on the interest. There are many state-of-the-art meeting facilities in a variety of configurations throughout the university. Stewart Center, the Purdue Memorial Union and the Elliott Hall of Music are the prominent halls where there are meeting rooms, auditoriums, banquet halls, recreational facilities and many more.

Stewart Centre

A dedicated meeting facility, Stewart Centre has 23 meeting rooms of 900-3,900 Sqft that can accommodate groups of 10-500. It facilitates easy and efficient conferences. Fowler Hall and Loeb Playhouse are two auditoriums in the centre. 

Fowler Hall is a 400-seat theatre with superb acoustics, lighting and boasts of latest technology facilities. Loeb Playhouse is a 1,000-seat theatre that is perfect for large group presentations, performances and ceremonies.

Purdue Memorial Union

It is a highly built meeting place at Purdue University that contains 15+ meeting rooms that can accommodate as many as 700 people and of 200-7,200 Sq.ft size. Purdue Memorial Union also has ballrooms and lounges.

Slayter Center

Slayter centre is a Purdue landmark and an excellent outdoor amphitheatre where 20,000 seats are arranged on a gently sloping hillside. The facility is ideal for twilight concerts, lawn movies and outdoor dances.

Elliot Hall of Music

Elliot Hall of Music is a unique space on Purdue University campus and one of the largest proscenium theatres in the USA. The seating capacity is 6,005 arranged on three levels where grand musical events, theatrical productions, and international speaking guests can take place.

Purdue University International Office Details

Purdue University international students constitute around 18% of the total student body. As of 2022, there are 9452 international students coming from 128 countries, along with 1244 international faculty. Also, 11.2% of the undergraduates, 42.9% of graduates, and professional students comprise overseas students. Purdue University's Indian students constitute the highest number at 2698, followed by China and South Korea at 2359 and 693 respectively. 

International students can contact Purdue University at the given details.

International Student Services Team (ISS)

Address: 610 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA

Phone No. 765-494-5770 or 765-496-0653

Email Address:  IntlScholars@Purdue.edu or ISS@Purdue.edu (ISS)

Is it hard to get into Purdue University for international students?

Purdue University’s acceptance rate for the main campus stands at nearly 53%. As per Purdue University’s official data, the undergraduate class for 2023-24 was selected at a 50% admission rate which is 3 percentage points lower than last year.  

Overall estimates show that Purdue University’s admission criteria are competitive and moderately selective. International students with strong academic records have good chances of getting into Purdue University. As per the statistics, half of the applicants admitted to Purdue University, West Lafayette who submitted test scores have an SAT score between 1200 and 1470 or an ACT score of 27 and 34, and a High School GPA of 3.7+.

Is Purdue University good for Indian students?

Yes, Purdue University is great for Indians as it is a globally recognised university and the majors offered at the university for students are highly ranked in terms of education quality. The university is impressively ranked by official ranking bodies as well.

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FAQ's

Purdue University is among the top 100 universities in the world as per the rankings given by the QS (99th) and THE (86th) and among the top 50 universities in the U.S. according to the U.S. News & World Report.

Purdue University's acceptance rate stands at 53% (U.S. News & World Report). The university’s admission criteria are competitive and applicants are required to demonstrate strong academic credentials in order to get into the university.

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required by the Graduate School but many graduate programmes may require this test. Applicants can check the Graduate Program Requirements Web page for more information.

Purdue University is globally renowned for its Engineering Studies Programmes. A number of university’s Engineering programmes are top-ranked in the U.S. Moreover, Purdue offers world-class education and is known for many other top-ranked courses such as Nursing, Computer Sciences, and Biological Sciences among others.

Purdue University is a top public research university in the US as well as globally. Purdue University’s rankings over the years suggest that it is among the top 100 universities in the world. The university has a global reputation for its academics, teaching excellence, and high-quality research work.