
400 East Main Street, Frankfort, KY 40601, USA


Kentucky State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master's degrees. This regional accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education.
Additionally, several of its specific academic programs hold specialized accreditations. Such accreditations serve to verify that these programs fulfill rigorous academic and professional criteria relevant to their disciplines, which can be crucial for students pursuing certain careers.
Prospective students should consider these accreditations as indicators of the institution's commitment to maintaining quality education and upholding rigorous standards recognized nationally.
Kentucky State University requires applicants to have completed a secondary education equivalent to a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED). Submission of the full secondary school record is mandatory, and the university also requires a minimum secondary school grade point average. Although recommendations and demonstration of competencies are encouraged, they are not strictly required for admission.
Proficiency in English is essential, as evidenced by a required TOEFL score for non-native speakers. While additional standardized testing beyond TOEFL is recommended, it is not compulsory. The university does not have an open admission policy and requires applicants to have completed a college program before enrollment.
Dual credit options are unavailable at Kentucky State University, but both college and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted for transfer and credit accumulation purposes. A computer is neither required for application nor available for lease through the university.
The institution admits students selectively, with an acceptance rate of approximately 93%, placing it in the top 20% for selectivity nationally. Admissions records indicate a sizable proportion of enrolled students have ACT scores primarily between 11 and 23, reflecting moderate standardized test performance among the student body.
Kentucky State University charges an application fee to prospective students submitting their admission requests. This fee is required to process the application and is non-refundable. However, the university provides options for fee waivers to applicants who demonstrate financial need, ensuring that the cost does not create a barrier to prospective students looking to enroll. Students seeking a waiver must typically provide appropriate documentation or meet certain eligibility criteria set by the university to qualify for this exemption.
Applicants are encouraged to reach out to the admissions office for detailed guidance on how to request a fee waiver and what supporting materials are necessary. This policy reflects the university's commitment to accessibility and fostering an inclusive admissions process.
Kentucky State University does not currently host any ROTC branch units on its campus. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs would need to explore options at other institutions or cooperating host schools that offer these military training programs. Since no ROTC branches operate directly at Kentucky State University, students should consider affiliating with a nearby university that maintains an ROTC unit if they wish to pursue such training alongside their college studies.
Kentucky State University welcomes transfer students during the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the year for those seeking to continue their education. Transfer applicants can apply with a variety of credits including those earned through CLEP (both general and subject exams) and DANTES, demonstrating the university's flexibility in recognizing standardized examination credits.
Furthermore, Kentucky State University accepts transfer credits from other institutions, facilitating a smoother transition for students who have previously completed coursework elsewhere. The university also considers recommendation letters as part of the admissions process, which may support the evaluation of transfer candidates.
Kentucky State University offers a selection of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs typically include short-term faculty-led trips, allowing students to engage in global learning while earning academic credit. The university focuses on providing options that align with various fields of study, promoting both personal growth and professional development through international exposure.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
41%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
10%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer