University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky · Public
University of Kentucky admitted 94% of 33,387 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1058–1270 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 70% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at University of Kentucky
Enter a score to see whether University of Kentucky is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (94%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more. To see your whole list at once, use the chances calculator.
Application deadlines
University of Kentucky’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:
- Early action
- December 1, 2026
- Regular decision
- Rolling admission
The application fee is $50 ($60 for international applicants), and University of Kentucky accepts the Common App fee waiver. University of Kentucky asks for the Common App personal essay.
Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check University of Kentucky’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.
Early decision and early action
University of Kentucky offers early action but didn’t report its early admit rate.
What admissions weighs
How University of Kentucky rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- GPA
- Essay
Important
- –
Considered
- Class rank
- Test scores
- Recommendations
- Interview
- Activities
- Talent or ability
- Character
- First generation
- Where you live
- State residency
- Volunteering
- Work experience
Not considered
- Legacy
- Religion
- Showing interest
High school GPA
First-year students averaged a 3.58 GPA. 28% of those who reported a class rank were in the top 10% of their class.
Some colleges report weighted GPAs, so compare loosely.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $35,098 in-state and $55,292 out-of-state a year. After grants, students paid $19,838 on average (in-state).
Average price after grants, by family income, for in-state students:
Quick answers
What is University of Kentucky’s acceptance rate?
University of Kentucky admitted 94% of applicants: 31,222 of 33,387 (Common Data Set 2025-2026).
When is University of Kentucky’s early action deadline?
For 2026–27, early action is due December 1, 2026 and regular admission is rolling. Common App deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone.
What SAT score do you need for University of Kentucky?
The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 1058 to 1270, with a median around 1165. A score at or above 1165 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.
How much is University of Kentucky’s application fee?
The application fee is $50 ($60 for international applicants) for 2026–27, and University of Kentucky accepts the Common App fee waiver.
What does University of Kentucky require?
Besides the application and transcript, University of Kentucky asks for the Common App personal essay.
Does University of Kentucky have supplemental essays?
No. University of Kentucky has no supplemental essays for 2026–27. You send only the Common App personal essay.
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