Preparing for Purdue Engineering

Thinking about studying engineering in college? The choices you make and the habits you develop now can help set you up for success. From the courses you take to your extracurricular involvement, all are important to your development as you prepare for college.

BUILD YOUR FOUNDATION – inside the classroom

MATHEMATICS

Highest Math Available by Senior Year
If you can and it is available at your school, start algebra in middle school and take math all four years of high school, building steadily toward calculus. Calculus by senior year is preferred if it is offered.

COURSE SELECTIONS

Choose the challenge on purpose
Start algebra in middle school and take math all four years of high school, building steadily toward calculus

explore & discover – outside the classroom

INVESTIGATE YOUR INTERESTS

Chase what you enjoy
Try clubs, projects, reading, and free online courses. Notice what makes you lose track of time – that’s a clue worth following

TALK TO PEOPLE

Ask the ones already there
Engineers, professors, and current students will tell you what the work really looks like. Counselors and mentors open doors.

Middle school students – common questions

What is engineering, and what do engineers actually do day to day?

Engineers design, test, and improve things, from apps and prosthetics to bridges and spacecraft. Day-to-day work includes problem-solving, teamwork, sketching ideas, testing, and fixing what doesn’t work.

What different types of engineering exist?

Common areas include mechanical, electrical, civil, biomedical, chemical, computer, and aerospace engineering. Purdue Engineering has 18 majors. Each focuses on different kinds of problems, from machines to medicine to computers. However, they all include the basis of the design process, collaboration, iterative development, and deep mathematical and scientific understanding.

What classes should I take in middle school to prepare to study engineering?

Algebra by 8th grade, which puts you on track to take Calculus by your senior year of high school. Starting math early is one of the most important steps you can take now.

**Do I need to already know I want to be an engineer to explore this?**

No. Most students figure this out over time. Trying activities now is about exploring, not committing. However, it is important to enter high school prepared to take classes that will keep the doors open to your future endeavors. That is why it is essential to focus on exposing students to Algebra before high school.

What’s it like to visit a college campus for the first time?

It’s a chance to see what college life looks like, walk through real labs and classrooms, and picture yourself there. Campus visits are welcoming and designed for students exactly your age. Sign up to visit Purdue Engineering and see for yourself!

HIGH school students – common questions

What are the admission requirements for Purdue Engineering?

Admission considers class rank, grades in college-preparatory courses, trends in achievement and completion of recommended high school coursework in math and science. It’s a holistic review rather than a single cutoff score. Learn more about Purdue’s admission criteria.

What GPA, test scores, or coursework should students aim for?

It is recommended to reach the highest level of math and science your school offers. Being prepared for the rigor of engineering matters, and the goal is to be enrolled in and studying calculus by at least your senior year of high school. Specific GPA and test-score benchmarks vary. Learn more about Purdue’s admission criteria.

What scholarships and financial aid are available?

Purdue offers a range of scholarships, including need-based and merit-based options. Learn more from the Division of Financial Aid.

What support exists for first-generation college students?

Purdue Engineering has dedicated programming and mentorship support for first-generation students within Engineering Student Success.

How does Purdue support students from various backgrounds?

Through targeted mentorship, community programs, and partnerships designed to build a strong sense of belonging from the first year on.

Can students visit campus before applying?

Yes. Campus visit programs let prospective students and families tour campus, see labs, and talk with current students and staff. Schedule your visit now.

How competitive is admission, and what makes an application stand out?

Engineering is one of Purdue’s more competitive colleges. Strong grades in math and science, a rigorous course load, and demonstrated curiosity or hands-on experience all strengthen an application.

What resources exist for parents who didn’t go to college themselves?

Purdue offers guidance and programming specifically designed to help first-generation families navigate the admissions and college process together. Engineering families can reach out to Engineering Student Success for more information.

Are there pre-college programs or summer programming for high school students?

Yes, Purdue University and the College of Engineering have several opportunities for student engagement. Explore Purdue summer programs.

Admitted students – common questions

What are the next steps after being admitted?

Accept your offer, submit any required deposit, and follow the student task list. Tasks will be added as needed and may be removed when completed. It is important to check your Purdue email and portal daily to ensure that you do not miss a required step in the process.
New student task list.

How do I accept my offer of admission?

Create your Purdue Career Account and access your student task list. It is important to note that when you choose “Accept My Offer of Admission,” you will be directed to information and further instructions before your offer is officially accepted.

When are deposit and enrollment deadlines?

May 1^st is the deadline to accept your offer of admission. Remember that residential housing requests have additional deadlines to consider.

How do I register for orientation?

Purdue’s Orientation is called Boiler Gold Rush; registering is part of your student task list on your MyPurdue Portal.

What academic advising or placement testing is required before classes start?

Complete Purdue 101 and 102. Consult your academic advisor for specific advising questions and placement testing inquiries related to your course of study and academic needs. Typically, students will take the ALEKS placement exam to assess appropriate math placement.

What housing options are available and how do I apply?

Follow the instructions provided in your student task list found in your MyPurdue portal.

Are there pre-college bridge programs or summer transition programs?

Yes, Purdue Engineering offers transition programming designed to help incoming students build community and academic readiness before the fall semester: it is the Engineering Academic Bootcamp through BOP+ program.

What scholarships or financial aid steps do I still need to complete?

For the answer to this, it is best to reach out to the Division of Financial Aid.

How do I choose or confirm my major or specialization?

Students in West Lafayette begin in First-Year Engineering and choose a specific major after completing shared coursework, with advising support along the way.
Students in Indianapolis are directly admitted to one of six majors available and follow the same core coursework in the first year as West Lafayette. Learn more about Purdue engineering’s first year.

What resources exist specifically for first-generation or underserved admitted students?

Programs like Engineering Student Success, Boilermaker Opportunity Plus, and Horizons provide mentorship, community, and support specifically for first-generation students starting their Purdue journey.

Who do I contact if I have questions before the semester starts?

Rebecca Yoder, Director of Educational Partnerships – Engineering Student Success, yoder57@purdue.edu