Purdue University-Main Campus

Getting in is the hard part. Purdue University-Main Campus admitted 49.9% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 1200–1480 on the SAT and 27–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Purdue University-Main Campus actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

Whether you’re a dreamer or a doer, an instigator or an innovator, there are so many ways to be a Boilermaker, preparing for the jobs of tomorrow through hands-on learning opportunities, internships and co-ops.

Purdue University offers more than 150 majors, housed in 11 colleges and schools, providing diverse paths for exploration.

• College of AgricultureAgribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Animal Sciences
• College of EngineeringAeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering
• College of ScienceActuarial Science, Artificial Intelligence (Science)

Verified from purdue.edu and admissions.purdue.edu and admissions.purdue.edu and admissions.purdue.edu and admissions.purdue.edu and admissions.purdue.edu and admissions.purdue.edu and purdue.edu.

• Next deadlineNovember 1, 2026 (EA)
• Regular decisionJanuary 15, 2027
• TestingRequired (2026 cycle)
• Recommendations0 letters
• Personal essayRequired
• ApplicationCommon App

Verified from https://www.purdue.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

• How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom?

  Up to 250 words

• Briefly discuss your reasons for choosing your major and your interest in studying at this campus location

  Up to 250 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.purdue.edu.

The sticker price is about $24,591, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $14,600.

Purdue provides financial assistance through scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, dedicated to affordability and accessibility while pioneering innovative education.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $72,424.

Verified from https://www.purdue.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

“Grab coffee at the Union, then scale a 55-foot climbing wall before cheering on the Boilermakers at Mackey Arena, a Tuesday at Purdue.”

Boilermakers gather at the Purdue Memorial Union for studying on sunlit patios, cheer on NCAA Division I teams at Mackey Arena, and engage in group fitness or scale a 55-foot climbing wall at the Fran

Is Purdue University-Main Campus test-optional?

No. For the 2026 application cycle, Purdue University-Main Campus requires SAT or ACT scores from first-year applicants.

How hard is it to get into Purdue University-Main Campus?

Very hard. Purdue University-Main Campus admits 49.9% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1200 to 1480 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.

When is the Purdue University-Main Campus application deadline?

The next deadline is November 1, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes January 15, 2027.

How much does Purdue University-Main Campus cost?

The list price is about $24,591, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $14,600.

Is Purdue University-Main Campus worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $72,424 ten years after enrolling, and 83% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.