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University of Kentucky

101 Main Building, Lexington, KY 40506-0032, USA

University of Kentucky award
University of Kentucky award
US ranking
position: 38
Tuition & fees per year: $13,907
Acceptance rate: 92.00%
Median alumni salary: $45,496
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1207 SAT, 26 ACT
Entrance difficulty: N/A

What is the accreditation of University of Kentucky?

The University of Kentucky holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. This regional accreditation signifies that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in its educational programs and institutional operations.

What are the admission requirements at University of Kentucky?

The University of Kentucky requires applicants to have completed high school or possess a General Educational Development (GED) credential. Submission of a secondary school record and a minimum grade point average are mandatory, while a secondary school class rank is recommended but not required. Applicants must have completed a college preparatory program. Recommendations and demonstration of competencies are encouraged, though not compulsory. English language proficiency through TOEFL is required for non-native speakers, with additional standardized tests recommended but not mandatory. The university does not admit students under an open admission policy and does not accept dual credit for admission purposes. Both credit and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted once enrolled.

The University of Kentucky reports average standardized test scores consistent with a competitive applicant pool. The mean SAT score stands at 1207, placing applicants roughly in the top 40% nationally, with an average math score of 605 and writing score of 602. The mean ACT score is 26, also near the top 40%. Approximately 50% of enrolled students scored below 23 on the ACT, and 39.4% scored below 29, reflecting a moderate range of academic performance among admitted students.

Admission competitiveness is high, reflected by an acceptance rate of 92%, which ranks within the top 20% of institutions for selectivity. The university receives a large volume of applications, over 28,000 annually, with strong enrollment figures exceeding 6,400 students. These statistics indicate a balanced admission process prioritizing academic records and demonstrated preparation while maintaining accessibility.

What are the application fees and waivers at University of Kentucky?

Prospective students applying to University of Kentucky should anticipate an application fee when submitting their admission materials. The university charges a nonrefundable fee which helps cover the administrative costs of processing applications. However, certain students may qualify for fee waivers based on specific eligibility criteria, reducing financial barriers to applying.

Fee waivers are typically granted to applicants who demonstrate financial need or belong to particular groups such as low-income students, participants in recognized college preparatory programs, or those attending high schools with limited resources. These waivers are intended to support access and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds.

Students seeking a fee waiver must provide appropriate documentation or follow the university's prescribed process when submitting their applications. It is advisable for prospective applicants to review the university's official guidelines or contact the admissions office to confirm their eligibility and the proper procedure for requesting a waiver.

What types of ROTC programs are available at University of Kentucky?

University of Kentucky offers an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students the opportunity to engage in military training alongside their academic studies. This program is designed to prepare cadets for future leadership roles in the armed forces while completing their college education.

What are the requirements for transfer students at University of Kentucky?

The University of Kentucky permits transfer students to enroll in fall, spring, and summer terms, offering multiple opportunities throughout the year to begin studies. Prospective transfer students can benefit from the acceptance of various credit types, including credits earned through CLEP exams for both general and subject-specific tests, as well as DANTES credits. The university also accepts recommendations, supporting applications that include such endorsements. Overall, the institution demonstrates a flexible approach to credit transfer, accommodating students seeking to continue their education from other accredited programs.

What types of study abroad programs are available at University of Kentucky?

The University of Kentucky offers a diverse range of study abroad programs designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These opportunities include short-term faculty-led trips, semester-long exchanges, and summer programs, allowing students to select a format that best fits their educational goals and schedules. Participants can study across multiple continents, gaining exposure to global perspectives in various fields of study.

Through its partnerships with international institutions, the university facilitates semester and year-long exchanges, enabling students to immerse themselves in different academic environments while earning credits applicable toward their degrees. The faculty-led programs, often lasting a few weeks, focus on specific disciplines and incorporate cultural excursions, enhancing both learning and engagement with the host country.

Additionally, the university provides support services such as pre-departure orientations, on-site assistance, and academic advising to ensure students have a smooth and rewarding study abroad experience. Financial aid and scholarship options are also available to help offset program costs, making global study accessible to a wider range of students.

University of Kentucky Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1207
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 26
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 92%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 12-17
ACT in range 18-23
ACT in range 24-29
ACT in range 30-36

University of Kentucky Admissions

Applicants Total: 28,233
Admission Total: 26,083
Enrolled Total: 6,437
Women
Men

University of Kentucky Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1207

Median composite ACT score

26

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

50%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

7%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

Yes

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Recommended

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Required

Recommendations

Recommended

Formal demonstration of competencies

Recommended

Admission test scores

Data not available

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

Yes

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

Yes

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Navy

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit on campus

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Yes

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

Yes

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

Yes

University of Kentucky Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Data not available

Generally accepts credits

Yes

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring, Summer

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