Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
The University of Kentucky, located in Lexington and proximate to Louisville, is a public research institution established in 1865. Characterized by its distinctive Gothic Revival architecture and sprawling green spaces, the university campus exudes a blend of historical charm and modern facility. It enrolls a significant student population, offering a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Noteworthy among its wide array of academic offerings are the Gatton College of Business and Economics, the College of Engineering, and the College of Arts and Sciences. While the university has an inclusive admissions policy, it maintains a competitive selection process. The institution provides comprehensive on-campus student housing options, designed to accommodate a substantial number of its enrolled students. The University of Kentucky is also recognized for its Wildcats athletic program, particularly notable in men's basketball, competing in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference.
In the most recent statistical year 22,109 prospective students applied, and 20,979 were granted admission. Of those admitted 6,061 enrolled in the school. 27,620 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 3,927 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $11,496 plus fees of $1,363. Kentucky is ranked 408 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
Kentucky is rated within the top 41% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 6 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for University of Kentucky within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#408 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#117 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#4 in Best Colleges in Kentucky
#2 in Best Public Colleges in Kentucky
#304 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#5 in Best Value Colleges in Kentucky
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1070/1290 |
| ACT | 21/28 |
| GPA | 3.59 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | Feb 15, 2024 |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Kentucky Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Other Fees | $1,363 |
| Room and Board | $14,676 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $4,330 |
| Total One Year Cost | $33,065 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Other Fees | $1,363 |
| Room and Board | $14,676 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $4,330 |
| Total One Year Cost | $52,482 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 19% |
| Communication | 8% |
| Engineering | 8% |
| Education | 8% |
| Social Sciences | 8% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering Kentucky are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=157085 IPEDS survey data for University of Kentucky.
Current students may use the University of Kentucky GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.