<p>I'm applying as a freshman undergrad to either University of Maryland College Park or Purdue University. </p>
<p>However I don't know which one would be a better one for me as someone who wants to major in finance.</p>
<p>Which school did you hear was the better one? </p>
<p>Also I need to take into account cost and scholarships.</p>
<p>Purdue has the better name recognition, by far. Not sure about the programs specifically, but its hard to imagine that Maryland would offer a better name than Purdue.</p>
<p>Well, Maryland is the better name in the Maryland area. Both are very reputable everywhere. </p>
<p>As for cost, what state do you live in? If you live in Indiana or Maryland, the financial choice is easy. If out of state, both are about 38K per year–comparable to many private schools. Like many popular state schools, financial aid for nonresidents can be tough. If you are a strong candidate, you can sometimes get a better aid package and pay less at many privates. What are your stats?</p>
<p>If out of state, the cost may end up the same for both schools. Reputation is comparable. That might leave location as a deciding factor. Would you prefer small town Indiana or suburban DC?</p>
<p>I would be applying as an out of state for both maryland and purdue. However, I also count as an international student. Does that mean that my chances of applying for merit based scholarships are slim?</p>
<p>You’ll have to check the websites of each school as to whether international students can get merit aid. It just depends.</p>