About

About University of Kentucky

high acceptance ratevery high research activityhealth sciences focuspublic flagship universitybluegrass state institution

University of Kentucky is a public research university in Lexington, KY, known for its high acceptance rate, very high research activity, and health sciences focus. With an acceptance rate of 95%, UK is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 6,061 students each year. UK is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1070–1270, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. UK offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $14,307 per year; the sticker price of $50,688 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

University of Kentucky acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

95%
Overall Accept Rate
3.50
Typical Admitted GPA
1170
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1070 – 1270 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to University of Kentucky

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
Even though UK admits nearly everyone who applies, essays are rated as highly important in their process, so treat your personal statement seriously and use it to show genuine personality, not just a list of achievements.
Application Strategy
UK has distinct colleges like the Lewis Honors College and the Gatton College of Business, so identify the specific program or college you are applying to and tailor your application materials to show why that program fits your goals.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What University of Kentucky actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$51k/yr$12.2k
30k-48k~$51k/yr$12.1k
48k-75k~$51k/yr$16.3k
75k-110k~$51k/yr$21.2k
110k+~$51k/yr$26.8k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

70%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$47k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
20,308
Undergrad Enrollment
University of Kentucky Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch