Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
Purdue
$161,656
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
Maryland
$218,560
4-year total (out-of-state)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: Purdue = $107,616 | Maryland = $161,760. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
Purdue Top Majors
EngineeringComputer ScienceBusinessBiologyAgricultureMaryland Top Majors
Computer ScienceBiologyEngineeringBusinessCriminology
Need Help Choosing Between Purdue & Maryland?
Get free personalized guidance from college admissions experts. Application strategy, essay reviews, and financial aid help.
Get Free College Guidance →
✓ 100% free consultation
✓ Expert admissions advisors
✓ No obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Purdue or Maryland harder to get into?+
Maryland is more selective with an acceptance rate of 44.0% compared to 53.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, Purdue or Maryland?+
At sticker price, Purdue costs less over 4 years ($161,656 vs $218,560). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. Purdue offers an average of $13,510/year in aid while Maryland offers $14,200/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for Purdue and Maryland?+
The average SAT score at Purdue is 1340 and at Maryland it is 1410. 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 Maryland graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Maryland have a higher average starting salary ($70,900 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 Maryland has 18:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do Purdue and Maryland compare for campus life?+
Purdue is located in West Lafayette, Indiana (suburban setting) with a 2,468-acre campus. Maryland is in College Park, Maryland (suburban setting) with 1,335 acres. Purdue competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Maryland in NCAA D1.