Head-to-head · 2026
Indiana State University vs Purdue University-Main Campus
Compare average net price ($10,873 at Indiana State University; $14,600 at Purdue University-Main Campus), ROI score (11.13 vs 12.40), ten-year median earnings ($48,387 vs $72,424), and admissions selectivity (80.8% acceptance at Indiana State University; 49.9% at Purdue University-Main Campus) using federal College Scorecard data. Purdue University-Main Campus has a 5-1 metric-level edge. Purdue University-Main Campus leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Indiana State University | Purdue University-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 11.13 | 12.40 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $10,873 ✓ | $14,600 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $48,387 | $72,424 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 80.8% | 49.9% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 42.9% | 83.1% ✓ |
| Median debt | $24,000 | $19,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 6,188 | 44,503 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | — | 1364 |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Purdue University-Main Campus costs $3,727 more per year than Indiana State University ($14,600 vs $10,873). Purdue University-Main Campus graduates report $24,037 higher median earnings after ten years ($72,424 vs $48,387). On EduGradify's model that puts Purdue University-Main Campus ahead on projected ROI (12.40 vs 11.13, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Purdue University-Main Campus) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Indiana State University is accessible at 80.8% acceptance versus 49.9% (selective) at Purdue University-Main Campus.
Frequently asked
Indiana State University vs Purdue University-Main Campus, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Indiana State University or Purdue University-Main Campus the better value?
Purdue University-Main Campus has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.40 vs 11.13), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Indiana State University is cheaper — average net price $10,873 per year vs $14,600 at Purdue University-Main Campus. The annual difference of $3,727 adds up to about $14,908 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Purdue University-Main Campus reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $72,424 vs $48,387 at Indiana State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $24,037.
Which school is harder to get into?
Purdue University-Main Campus is more selective at 49.9% acceptance vs 80.8% at Indiana State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Indiana State University reports a A value grade; Purdue University-Main Campus reports A.