How to Get Into Purdue University-Main Campus

Complete admissions guide with requirements, stats, and insider tips

West Lafayette, IN Public Moderately Competitive

Admissions Overview

Purdue University-Main Campus is a public university located in West Lafayette, IN. With an acceptance rate of 53.0%, it is considered moderately competitive.

Purdue University-Main Campus is a public university located in West Lafayette, IN. It is a large institution with approximately 30,167 undergraduate students. The university is accessible with an acceptance rate of 60.4%. The average SAT score is 1211. Annual tuition for out-of-state students is $2...

53.0%
Acceptance Rate
47.0K
Students
1360
Avg SAT
3.8
Avg GPA

Acceptance Rate & Statistics

Competitiveness

Acceptance Rate 53.0%
Moderately selective - good academic standing recommended
Classification
Moderately Competitive
Student Population
47,000
Retention Rate
93.0%
Graduation Rate
82.0%

Academic Profile of Admitted Students

SAT Scores 1360
Middle 50%: 1280–1470
ACT Scores 31
Middle 50%: 28–34
GPA 3.8
Average unweighted GPA

Application Requirements

Required Materials

  • Common Application or School Application

    Complete the application with personal information and essays

  • High School Transcript

    Official transcripts showing all coursework and grades

  • Standardized Test Scores

    SAT or ACT scores (check if test-optional for recent years)

  • Letters of Recommendation

    Usually 2-3 letters from teachers, counselors, or mentors

  • Personal Essays

    Application essays and supplemental questions

Additional Considerations

  • Application Deadlines

    Early Decision/Action typically November 1-15, Regular Decision January 1-15

  • Application Fee

    Most universities charge $50-100 application fee (fee waivers available)

  • Processing Time

    Decisions typically released in March-April for fall admission

  • International Students

    May require TOEFL/IELTS scores and additional documentation

Tips for Getting Into Purdue University-Main Campus

Academic Excellence

  • • Aim for SAT scores above 1360 (current average)
  • • Maintain a GPA of 3.8+ to be competitive
  • • Take challenging coursework (AP, IB, honors courses)
  • • Show consistent academic improvement over time
  • • Excel in your intended major's prerequisite courses

Stand Out from the Crowd

  • • Develop unique extracurricular activities and leadership roles
  • • Write compelling essays that showcase your personality
  • • Demonstrate genuine interest in the university and program
  • • Get strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well
  • • Consider applying Early Decision/Action if the school is your top choice

Pro Tip for Purdue University-Main Campus

Purdue University-Main Campus's 53.0% acceptance rate makes it moderately competitive. Strong academics and extracurriculars will improve your chances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Purdue University-Main Campus?

Purdue University-Main Campus has an acceptance rate of 53.0%, making it moderately competitive.

What SAT score do I need for Purdue University-Main Campus?

The average SAT score at Purdue University-Main Campus is 1360. The middle 50% range is 1280-1470. Aim for scores above the average to be competitive.

How much does it cost to attend Purdue University-Main Campus?

Tuition at Purdue University-Main Campus is $9,992 for in-state studentsand $32,825 for international students. Additional costs include room and board, books, and personal expenses.

What GPA do I need for Purdue University-Main Campus?

The average GPA of admitted students at Purdue University-Main Campus is 3.8. A competitive GPA would be above this average, typically 4.0+ to improve your chances.

When is the application deadline for Purdue University-Main Campus?

Application deadlines for Purdue University-Main Campus vary by program and application type. Early Decision/Action deadlines are typically November 1-15, while Regular Decision deadlines are usually January 1-15. Check the official admissions website for specific dates.

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