Head-to-head · 2026
Indiana University-East vs Purdue University Northwest
Compare average net price ($8,134 at Indiana University-East; $6,079 at Purdue University Northwest), ROI score (14.49 vs 19.87), ten-year median earnings ($47,156 vs $48,318), and admissions selectivity (67.2% acceptance at Indiana University-East; 72.4% at Purdue University Northwest) using federal College Scorecard data. Purdue University Northwest has a narrow 4-3 metric-level edge. Purdue University Northwest has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 University-East | Purdue University Northwest |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 14.49 | 19.87 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $8,134 | $6,079 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $47,156 | $48,318 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 67.2% ✓ | 72.4% |
| Graduation rate | 39.6% | 42.9% ✓ |
| Median debt | $18,000 ✓ | $21,229 |
| Enrollment | 2,589 | 5,671 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1061 ✓ | 1024 |
| Metric advantages | 3 | 4 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Indiana University-East costs $2,055 more per year than Purdue University Northwest ($8,134 vs $6,079). Purdue University Northwest graduates report $1,162 higher median earnings after ten years ($48,318 vs $47,156). On EduGradify's model that puts Purdue University Northwest ahead on projected ROI (19.87 vs 14.49, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Purdue University Northwest) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Indiana University-East is accessible at 67.2% acceptance versus 72.4% (accessible) at Purdue University Northwest.
Frequently asked
Indiana University-East vs Purdue University Northwest, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Indiana University-East or Purdue University Northwest the better value?
Purdue University Northwest has the higher EduGradify ROI score (19.87 vs 14.49), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Purdue University Northwest is cheaper — average net price $6,079 per year vs $8,134 at Indiana University-East. The annual difference of $2,055 adds up to about $8,220 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Purdue University Northwest reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $48,318 vs $47,156 at Indiana University-East. The annual gap in the federal data is $1,162.
Which school is harder to get into?
Indiana University-East is more selective at 67.2% acceptance vs 72.4% at Purdue University Northwest.
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 University-East reports a A value grade; Purdue University Northwest reports A+.