Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Purdue
$161,656
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
CU Boulder
$227,512
4-year total (out-of-state)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Purdue = $107,616 | CU Boulder = $174,712. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Purdue Top Majors
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessBiologyAgricultureCU Boulder Top Majors
EngineeringBusinessPsychologyBiologyIntegrative Physiology
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Purdue or CU Boulder harder to get into?+
Purdue is more selective with an acceptance rate of 53.0% compared to 80.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Purdue or CU Boulder?+
At sticker price, Purdue costs less over 4 years ($161,656 vs $227,512). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Purdue offers an average of $13,510/year in aid while CU Boulder offers $13,200/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Purdue and CU Boulder?+
The average SAT score at Purdue is 1340 and at CU Boulder it is 1290. Keep in mind that admitted students often score across a range, and many schools practice holistic admissions where test scores are just one factor.
Do Purdue or CU Boulder graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Purdue have a higher average starting salary ($70,100 vs $63,400). Salary outcomes vary significantly by major, industry, and location — so this is a general average across all graduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each school?+
Purdue has a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio while CU Boulder has 18:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Purdue and CU Boulder compare for campus life?+
Purdue is located in West Lafayette, Indiana (suburban setting) with a 2,468-acre campus. CU Boulder is in Boulder, Colorado (suburban setting) with 600 acres. Purdue competes in NCAA D1 athletics and CU Boulder in NCAA D1.