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UNITED STATES · WEST LAFAYETTE

Purdue University

public · Founded 1869 · Languages: en

In short

Purdue University is a top-ranked public research institution in West Lafayette, Indiana, known for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and science. It offers over 160 graduate programs and is committed to innovation and hands-on learning for impactful careers.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1869
Students: 36,000
International students: 10,000
Acceptance rate: 69%
Tuition (intl): €9–25k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: West Lafayette, United States

Purdue University is a renowned public research institution located in West Lafayette, Indiana, with additional campuses in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Northwest Indiana. Established as a land-grant university, Purdue has gained international recognition for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and science, while also expanding its offerings in the humanities. The university is dedicated to turning innovation into impact, with graduate students and postdocs playing a key role in solving global challenges through research. With over 160 graduate programs, Purdue offers a wide range of master's, doctoral, and professional degrees, available in both residential and online formats. The institution emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning and research, preparing students for successful careers by blending theoretical knowledge with practical, industry-driven applications across various fields. Purdue is consistently ranked among the top public and most innovative universities in the U.S. The university fosters a vibrant academic community, supported by extensive research facilities and a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from an environment that encourages discovery, innovation, and real-world application, making Purdue a compelling choice for those seeking to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.

Why study here

Engage in world-class research: Purdue is a top-ranked research university where graduate students and postdocs drive innovation and solve global challenges.
Benefit from interdisciplinary opportunities: Programs like the Interdisciplinary Life Science Program (PULSe) allow students to explore diverse research paths across multiple disciplines.
Access cutting-edge facilities: The university provides state-of-the-art labs, high-performance computing systems, and specialized facilities for various fields, including a dedicated Mathematics Library.
Join a highly recognized institution: Purdue is consistently ranked among the most innovative and top public universities in the U.S.
Experience a supportive academic environment: The university offers extensive support services, including the Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) and various graduate student associations.
Prepare for impactful careers: Programs are designed to blend theory with practical, industry-driven applications, ensuring graduates are ready to make a significant impact in their professions.

Student life

Purdue University offers a dynamic student life with numerous opportunities for engagement and support. The Disability Resource Center (DRC) provides comprehensive services to facilitate daily work for students with disabilities, aiming to make Purdue a leader in accessibility. The Native American Educational and Cultural Center (NAECC) supports Native American students' academic, cultural, and social needs, stemming from the Tecumseh Project and offering various programs and initiatives. Students can also find opportunities for involvement through organizations like the Purdue American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) and the Purdue Native American Student Association (NASA). The university emphasizes a collaborative environment, with various student-run initiatives and opportunities for community involvement and leadership.

Fees

InternationalInternational graduate students (non-residents) should budget for an academic year cost of $28,794. This includes $21,684 for tuition and fees, an estimated $13,720 for on-campus housing and food, and additional estimated expenses for books/course materials ($710), transportation ($190), and miscellaneous/loan fees ($2,550).

HomeIndiana resident graduate students should budget for an academic year cost of $27,162. This includes $9,992 for tuition and fees, an estimated $13,720 for on-campus housing and food, and additional estimated expenses for books/course materials ($710), transportation ($190), and miscellaneous/loan fees ($2,550).

LivingEstimated on-campus housing and food costs are $13,720 for the academic year. Off-campus housing and food are also estimated at $13,720. Other estimated expenses not billed through the Bursar include books/course materials/supplies/equipment ($710), transportation ($190), and miscellaneous/federal student loan fees ($2,550) for the academic year.

These figures are for the 2025-2026 academic year for graduate students taking 8 or more credit hours. Flight programs may have additional fees. Transportation costs may be higher for students who fly home frequently. Loan fees apply only to students receiving federal loans.

Admissions

TranscriptsOfficial transcripts and evidence of degrees awarded, with translations if necessary.

GRE ScoresApplicants are not required to submit GRE scores for Mathematics graduate programs.

Application Fee (Domestic)$60 USD

Application Fee (International)$75 USD

Paper-based TOEFLReading 19, Listening 14, Speaking 18, Writing 18

Rankings

U.S. News & World Report, 2025Top 10 Most Innovative School in the U.S.

QS World University RankingsTop 10 Public University in the U.S.

American Caldwell, 2025#1 Most Recognized Public University in the U.S.

U.S. News & World ReportsTop 5 Civil Engineering Graduate Program

U.S. News & World ReportTop-tier Agricultural and Biological Engineering Graduate Program for 12 Consecutive Years

Animation Career Review, 2025#1 Top Indiana Game Design School

The Princeton Review, 2026#2 Top Midwest Game Design School

The Princeton Review, 2026#15 Top Game Design School

University scholarships

Andrews Fellowship$25,000-$27,000+ per year

Ross Fellowship$25,000-$27,000+ per year

Lynn Fellowship$25,000-$27,000+ per year

Knox Fellowship$25,000-$27,000+ per year

Purdue Doctoral Fellowship$25,000-$27,000+ per year

Puskas Fellowship$25,000-$27,000+ per year

Fannie and John Hertz Foundation FellowshipCovers tuition and all fees plus an annual stipend

Teaching AssistantshipsStarting from approximately $23,175 per academic year

Accreditation

Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a regional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Many professional programs hold additional specialized accreditations (e.g., ABET for engineering, AACSB for business).

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Purdue's Computer Science program offers a strong foundation in the core areas of algorithms, systems, and software. You will gain essential skills to shape the future of technology across various industries. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing you to adapt and lead in the evolving field of computing. Key areas of study include programming, data science, software engineering, and cybersecurity, with opportunities to explore electives in artificial intelligence, robotics, and computational biology. This program equips you for diverse careers in industry, research, or further academic pursuits, leveraging Purdue's reputable program and extensive alumni network for global opportunities.

Bachelor's

Level

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated costs for international graduate students at Purdue University?

International graduate students should budget approximately $28,794 for an academic year. This includes $21,684 for tuition and fees, and an estimated $13,720 for on-campus housing and food.

What are Purdue University's key strengths and rankings?

Purdue is consistently ranked among the top public and most innovative universities in the U.S. It is recognized as a Top 10 Most Innovative School and a Top 10 Public University in the U.S., with its Civil Engineering graduate program also ranked in the Top 5.

What application materials are required for international graduate students?

International applicants need to submit official transcripts and evidence of degrees awarded, with translations if necessary. The application fee for international students is $75 USD.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?

For the paper-based TOEFL, the minimum scores required are Reading 19, Listening 14, Speaking 18, and Writing 18.

Does Purdue University offer scholarships or financial aid to international graduate students?

Purdue offers various fellowships for beginning graduate students, such as the Andrews Fellowship and Purdue Doctoral Fellowship, which can provide a stipend and tuition remission.

Last updated 3 July 2026