Athens State University vs. WKU

Comparable Facts

Compare Athens State University in Athens, AL with Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY on tuition, admissions, graduation, earnings, and student body data using the tables above.

Western Kentucky University is larger than Athens State University based on total student enrollment (16,291 students vs. 2,986 students).

Location, institution type, and student-faculty ratio

• Athens State University is located in Athens, AL (Town Fringe setting); Western Kentucky University is in Bowling Green, KY (Small City setting).
• Athens State University is a public, non-profit 4-year institution. Western Kentucky University is a public, non-profit 4-year institution.
• Student-to-faculty ratio: Athens State University 14:1; Western Kentucky University 19:1.

Cost details

• Out-of-state tuition differs between WKU and Athens State University ($27,000 vs. $0).
• A larger share of students receive grant aid at Western Kentucky University than at Athens State University (99% vs. 0%).

Admissions details

• SAT or ACT scores are not reported at Athens State University, test optional at WKU.
• Typical fall application deadline: WKU Aug 1, 2027.

Loans and repayment

• Among federal student loan borrowers, Athens State University graduates have a $5,716 lower median loan debt than WKU graduates ($18,534 vs. $24,250).
• Among borrowers, Athens State University graduates have an estimated $59 lower median monthly federal student loan payment than WKU graduates ($191 vs. $250).
• More Athens State University graduates are actively paying back their federal student loan debt than former WKU students, three years after graduation (49% vs. 47%).

Sources: U.S. Department of Education, IPEDS and College Scorecard. Values reflect the most recent year available in our dataset.