Purdue University
About Purdue University
Purdue University is a flagship public research university renowned for its STEM programs and impactful research initiatives. It offers a world-class education that prepares students to tackle global challenges and lead in their respective fields.
location_city City, State & Campus Insights
Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around Purdue University
groups 1. City Size & State Population
West Lafayette
20.9 sq km / 8.1 sq mi
50,000
6.8 Million
Density: 2,400 people per sq km (6,200 per sq mi) in West Lafayette; Indiana's average is 71.5 people per sq km (185 per sq mi)
thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)
attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby
Purdue University Campus
University CampusA sprawling campus with iconic architecture, academic buildings, research facilities, and green spaces, offering a vibrant college town atmosphere.
Prophetstown State Park
State ParkIndiana's newest state park, featuring prairies, wetlands, a working farm, and cultural exhibits showcasing Native American and early 20th-century farm life.
Tippecanoe Battlefield Museum and Park
Historical SiteSite of the 1811 Battle of Tippecanoe, offering a museum, monument, and walking trails to learn about the conflict between William Henry Harrison and Tecumseh's confederacy.
Imagination Station
Science MuseumA hands-on science museum in Lafayette designed for children and families, featuring interactive exhibits on various scientific principles.
restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines
Hoosier Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A beloved Indiana classic: a large, breaded, and fried pork cutlet served on a bun, often with pickles, onions, and mustard.
Sugar Cream Pie
Indiana's unofficial state pie, a simple yet delicious custard pie made with cream, sugar, and vanilla, often topped with nutmeg.
Corn-based dishes
Given Indiana's agricultural heritage, expect to find many dishes featuring locally grown corn, from corn on the cob to corn puddings and fritters.
diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition
West Lafayette, largely influenced by Purdue University, has a more diverse demographic profile than many other Indiana cities, with a significant international student and faculty population. Indiana as a whole is less diverse than the national average.
workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures
Neil Armstrong
First person to walk on the Moon; graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering.
Orville Redenbacher
Founder of the Orville Redenbacher's Gourmet Popping Corn brand; graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Agronomy.
Drew Brees
Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the New Orleans Saints and former Purdue Boilermaker football star.
directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around
West Lafayette and Lafayette are served by a local bus system, and the area is car-dependent, though the Purdue campus is walkable. Regional travel primarily relies on driving or air travel from Indianapolis.
Public Transit (Buses & Metro)
CityBus provides public transportation throughout West Lafayette and Lafayette, with frequent routes serving the Purdue campus and surrounding areas. Fares are typically affordable, and students often have passes included.
Walking & Cycling
Purdue University's campus is highly walkable, and West Lafayette has an increasing network of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly paths. The city has a moderate walk score and bike score.
Regional Rail & Airport
The nearest major airport is Indianapolis International Airport (IND), approximately an hour's drive south. There is no direct regional rail service to West Lafayette, but Amtrak serves nearby Lafayette.
school 8. Education & Literacy Level
99%
57% (West Lafayette); 30% (Indiana)
West Lafayette boasts a highly educated population, largely due to Purdue University, with over half of its residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Indiana's overall educational attainment is closer to the national average, with a strong focus on public education across the state.
trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries
The economy of West Lafayette is heavily centered around Purdue University, which is the primary employer and a hub for research and innovation. The broader Lafayette-West Lafayette metropolitan area also benefits from manufacturing and healthcare.
Key Driving Industries
Major Corporate Employers
Popular Programs
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Admissions Info
Application Period
Main intake starts in September. Applications are typically accepted from October to January for the following academic year.
Fees & Living Costs
Tuition Fees / Year
$29,778.00
Living Expenses / Year
$12,000.00 - $20,000.00
* Costs are estimated. Actual fees may vary by course and lifestyle.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Need-Blind Admission
Financial need is not considered during the admission process for both domestic and international students.
Campus Life
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