
610 Purdue Mall, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA


Purdue University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, which is a regional accrediting body recognized for ensuring academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This accreditation validates that Purdue University meets established standards of excellence appropriate for awarding degrees.
The institution additionally secures specialized accreditations for various programs, aligning with professional and academic standards specific to those fields. These accreditations underscore the university's commitment to maintaining rigorous educational criteria and fostering continuous improvement within its individual schools and departments.
Admission to Purdue University requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent secondary school completion. While a secondary school GPA is recommended, a complete secondary school record is mandatory. The university does not follow an open admission policy and does not award credit for dual credit courses, although Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted.
Applicants must submit standardized admission test scores, including the SAT or ACT. Additionally, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required for non-native English speakers, and submission of other recommended tests may enhance the application.
Purdue University's acceptance rate stands at approximately 50%, indicating a moderately selective admission process. Successful applicants typically present strong academic credentials, reflected in average standardized test scores that rank among the top percentiles nationally. Specifically, the mean SAT score is around 1310, placing students in the top 15% nationwide, with the math section averaging 670 and the writing section 640. The mean ACT score is about 30, placing admitted students in the top 10% nationally.
The university receives a very high volume of applications, with over 73,000 applicants annually. Of these, about half are admitted, and roughly 9,300 enroll, illustrating a competitive selection procedure. While computer ownership is not mandatory for applicants, leasing options are available.
The application fee for Purdue University is $60 for all domestic undergraduate applicants. This fee must be paid at the time of submitting the application and is nonrefundable. Prospective graduate students are typically required to pay a separate application fee, the amount of which varies by program; however, specific graduate fees are not detailed here.
Purdue University offers fee waivers to certain applicants who demonstrate financial need. Eligible students may request a waiver by submitting appropriate documentation, such as a letter from a high school counselor, a college access program, or participation in federal assistance programs. These waivers aim to reduce barriers to application for students from low-income backgrounds.
It is also possible to receive fee waivers through certain outreach or recruitment programs affiliated with Purdue University. Students interested in these options should inquire directly with the admissions office for the latest criteria and processes.
Purdue University hosts Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) units representing multiple military branches, providing students with opportunities for leadership development alongside their academic studies. These ROTC programs enable students to train and prepare for potential service as commissioned officers upon graduation.
Prospective transfer students considering Purdue University should note that the institution allows transfers in the fall, spring, and summer terms. The admissions process is regarded as moderately difficult, suggesting a competitive but accessible transfer admission environment.
Applicants should be aware that the university has an age limit for transfer students set at 10 years, which may affect the acceptance of older academic credits. Unfortunately, specific details regarding credit acceptance policies or standardized test credits such as CLEP and DANTES are not publicly available.
Purdue University offers a diverse range of study abroad programs designed to accommodate various academic interests and durations. Students can participate in short-term programs, which typically last a few weeks and are often scheduled during the summer or winter breaks, allowing for travel without interrupting the regular academic year. These short-term options include faculty-led trips and specialized courses abroad.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Purdue provides semester-long and year-long exchange programs in partnership with numerous universities worldwide. These opportunities enable students to study alongside local students, earn credits toward their degree, and gain a deeper understanding of the culture and academic environment.
Additionally, Purdue facilitates internship and research abroad programs, combining practical experience with international exposure. These programs support a wide range of disciplines, encouraging students to develop professional skills in global settings.
The university also offers customizable independent study abroad options, allowing students to design their own educational experiences abroad, provided they meet specific academic requirements and obtain faculty approval. This flexibility supports individual academic goals and career aspirations.
Median composite SAT score
1310Median composite ACT score
30Percent of students submitting ACT scores
25.44%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
79.48%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RecommendedSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
RequiredTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
Data not availablePossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer