University of Kentucky

UK is one of only eight U.S. universities with colleges spanning liberal arts, engineering, agriculture, medicine, and professional programs. Its 200+ degree programs include standout offerings in agriculture, health professions (particularly nursing and cancer research), and engineering. Business and marketing are the most popular majors, followed by health-related fields. The Exploratory Studies in Education program caters to undecided students interested in education, sports, or health. The College of Arts & Sciences emphasizes flexibility, offering a 'well-rounded' foundational education. UK’s academic structure leans practical, with professional and pre-professional programs driving much of its enrollment.

Life at UK revolves around basketball fandom (the Wildcats are a religion here), Greek life, and a mix of on- and off-campus housing (32% live in university-affiliated housing). The Living Learning Program allows students to reside with peers in their academic field, fostering niche communities. Campus culture is described as 'welcoming' and 'vibrant,' with 600+ student organizations. Lexington’s blend of Southern charm and mid-sized city amenities provides off-campus entertainment, from bourbon distilleries to horse farms. Division I athletics dominate the social scene—especially basketball—though intramurals and club sports are popular alternatives.

UK’s six-year graduation rate is 71%, outperforming the 56.4% average for Kentucky’s public universities and the 59% national midpoint for four-year colleges. Its four-year rate is 60%, suggesting many students take longer to graduate—common at large state schools. Alumni earnings data is limited, but the university emphasizes career readiness through co-ops and internships. Retention rates have climbed recently, reflecting improved student support. Notably, UK graduates the highest proportion of students among Kentucky’s public universities, a point of pride for the institution.

The average net price after aid is $19,838/year, slightly below the national midpoint of $20,077 for four-year colleges. UK offers merit-based academic scholarships, with awards tied to GPA and test scores (though test-optional?Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. policies apply). The net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator suggests costs are manageable for in-state students, but out-of-state attendees face higher expenses. Financial aid packages often include grants, loans, and work-study options. Notably, UK’s aid office encourages early FAFSA submission to maximize eligibility.

UK combines the breadth of a land-grant research university (with rare comprehensiveness across agriculture, medicine, and the arts) and the spirit of a basketball-crazed Southern campus. Its high acceptance rate?Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. doesn’t tell the full story: once enrolled, students benefit from stronger-than-average graduation support and a tight-knit community centered on Wildcats pride. For Kentuckians, it’s the state’s academic flagship; for out-of-staters, it offers Big Blue Nation camaraderie at a reasonable cost. The blend of pre-professional programs, D1 sports, and Lexington’s cultural scene makes UK a distinctive choice among mid-tier public universities.