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Colleges / KY / Lexington
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University of Kentucky

Public Lexington, KY · Urban · Southeast · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
71%
Graduation Rate
$59,025
Earnings (10yr)
$18,851
Net Price
93%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an enrollment of nearly 25,000 students, the University of Kentucky in Lexington caters to a diverse range of learners. It's particularly suitable for those interested in fields like Business & Marketing, Health Professions, Engineering, Communications, and Education. A 93% acceptance rate means that many students can find a place here, making it accessible for a broad spectrum of applicants.

After graduation, students can expect to earn around $59,025 within ten years, which is a solid starting point for many. This figure suggests that a degree from UK can lead to stable career opportunities, especially for those who excel in their programs. The affordability factor also plays a crucial role; with a net price of $18,851, it remains a feasible option for many families, particularly given that 23% of students receive Pell Grants, which help lower the cost of attendance for those in need.

When it comes to managing finances, the median debt for graduates stands at $22,500, which is relatively manageable compared to national averages. Students who thrive here tend to be those who take advantage of the resources and support available, whether it's through academic advising or career services. This environment encourages growth and provides pathways for success, making it an appealing choice for students looking to balance affordability with a solid educational foundation.

Rankings

How University Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation71%Earnings 10yr$59KNet Price$19KRetention87%Median Debt$23KPell Grant Rate23%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$12K$0-30K$12K$30-48K$16K$48-75K$27K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%559.2%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%1716.0%MOBILITY95.96%

Cost & Financial Aid

$13,502
In-State Tuition
$34,140
Out-of-State
$18,851
Avg Net Price
$22,500
Median Debt
23%
Pell Grant Rate
34%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$12,182
Family Income $0–$30K
$12,119
Family Income $30K–$48K
$16,313
Family Income $48K–$75K
$26,781
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$47,266
6 Years After Entry
$53,326
8 Years
$59,025
10 Years
0.38x
Debt-to-Earnings
73%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$47,266 6yr $53,326 8yr $59,025 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

95.96%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
1716.0%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
559.2%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$98,800
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.60
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
7.3%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 93%
Retention Rate 87%
SAT Average 1215
ACT Midpoint 26
SAT Range 1070–1290
ACT Range 21–28
Full-Time Faculty 82%
Faculty Salary (mo) $11,984
Diversity Index 0.41
First-Gen Students 23%

Top Programs

Business & Marketing 22%
Health Professions 13%
Engineering 9%
Communications 8%
Education 7%
Biology & Biomedical 5%
Psychology 5%
Computer Science & IT 4%