Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Purdue
$161,656
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
UIUC
$197,936
4-year total (out-of-state)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Purdue = $107,616 | UIUC = $132,056. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Purdue Top Majors
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessBiologyAgricultureUIUC Top Majors
Computer ScienceEngineeringBusinessBiologyEconomics
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Purdue or UIUC harder to get into?+
UIUC is more selective with an acceptance rate of 44.8% compared to 53.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Purdue or UIUC?+
At sticker price, Purdue costs less over 4 years ($161,656 vs $197,936). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Purdue offers an average of $13,510/year in aid while UIUC offers $16,470/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Purdue and UIUC?+
The average SAT score at Purdue is 1340 and at UIUC it is 1390. 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 UIUC graduates earn more?+
Graduates of UIUC have a higher average starting salary ($72,400 vs $70,100). 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 UIUC has 20:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Purdue and UIUC compare for campus life?+
Purdue is located in West Lafayette, Indiana (suburban setting) with a 2,468-acre campus. UIUC is in Champaign, Illinois (urban setting) with 1,783 acres. Purdue competes in NCAA D1 athletics and UIUC in NCAA D1.