What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

I have gotten a better sense of the variety that exists in the world, more optimism, and, of course, a college education out of my college experience. Every person at UK has something to offer or is unexpected in some way. For instance, I went shopping today with some of my friends and my dorm's office assistant. It turns out that she's from New York and has traveled all over the US. I've also gained more optimism as I notice how many students are aware of the world and care enough to improve it. Whether the care is showed in little things, like gathering canned goods for needy families, or big things, like preparing for a mission trip to Honduras, it is evident that the majority of people are making an effort, giving me hope for the future. Through my education, I've learned more about science and world literature, useful topics that I wouldn't have been able to study in-depth if I hadn't gone to college. It has been valuable for me to attend college because I've gained thoughts and experiences (like the ones above) that I couldn't have had otherwise.

Describe the students at your school.

My classmates are very helpful and friendly, we have studied together and spend time outside of class enjoying ourselfs.

What's unique about your campus?

The best thing about the University of Kentucky is the atmosphere of the campus and the surrounding city. Everyone wears school colors and attends school function, be it basketball games, concerts or special lectures. The city shows its full support for the school; every business shows off the school logo or colors and will usually give student discounts. Lexington is obviously a college town and it is evident to everyone.

What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

Parking on campus is difficult and annoying.

Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

beautiful horse capital of the world.

What kind of person should attend this school?

All kinds of people here, but those who decide to go greek will have more fun. Greeks own the social sceene, including charity.

Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

The University of Kentucky is extremely school spirited. The basketball program is well known nation wide. There's a huge fan base as well as an extremely loyal alumni association.

What kind of person should not attend this school?

Somebody that is not used to a big school, it's a 40 minute walk to the other side of campus and some of the main university classes like chemistry can have over 200 students.

What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

There isn't really anything I wished I had known before coming to Univeristy of Kentucky. This is probably because I went on a campus tour and attended information sessions that are provided during K Week. I highly recommend new students, as well as returning students, to attend K Week events which give academic advice and allows social interaction before and during the first few days of fall and spring semester.

Describe your favorite campus traditions.

We are really good at basketball!!!!!!! That's it...

What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

When I tell my friends about my school, I brag about our basketball and occasionally the impressive speakers that visit.

What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

There were too many graduate assistants teaching the undergraduates.

What is your overall opinion of this school?

I love the University of Kentucky, the best thing about it is the people, whether they're in Lexington, students, faculty, even the custodians make you feel welcome and part of the family. As for the size I think it's just right for me, coming from Texas, I really didn't want to go to a big school where there's 500 students per class. Partially because I didn't think I'd make that many friends with the fact that I'd probably be sitting next to someone different every time and mainly because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to connect with my teachers as well. The teachers are great, all of them very knowledgeable and considerate to the fact that every student is unique. There hasn't been a teacher yet that wasn't happy to go over tests with me or help me with my papers. Speaking of help... UK offers a lot of free tutoring, both for general subjects and more specific ones.If you do consider Kentucky, know that you will acquire school spirit, even if it's not in your nature. I don't think I've ever been more excited for my school in terms of academics and sports. I think it's because wherever I go to support them I always have a good time. GO BIG BLUE!

What are the academics like at your school?

I always make sure that my professor at least knows my face, by shaking their hand and introducing myself after the first lecture day. My studio professors and architecture professors probably know me the most. (perhaps cause I spend most of my time there haha). I guess I'll try to explain what I've experienced in the College of Design. We study a lot (especially for history), that be said though we probably spend more time working in studio (aproximently 24-40+ hrs a week [just studio]) and it is pretty competitive just because everyone is trying to have the best project in the school, because one of the guest might see it and offer you a great job, not to mention were trying to build portfolios for grad school.

What are the most popular student activities/groups?

The most popular activity on campus would be going to see football or basketball games. There is nothing like going to see our basketball team play. The students get so intense, and the sense of school pride is just amazing. I am involved in an student organization called SnowCats, which is a snowboarding and ski club for the university. Once a year, they take a trip out west to go on a ski trip. It has a fairly active dating scene, and the girls and guys on Kentucky's campus are quite nice. I met most of my closest friends through my dorm, or they happened to live near me and we found common interests. People party on the weekends, and pretty much go every weekend, but stay calm during the weekdays. There's a bunch of cool places to go in Lexington, and there's a bunch of on campus events as well. But if those don't interest you, just grab a couple friends and figure something out to do on the spot. Those kind of nights always seem to go the best.

What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

In all honesty I don't believe their is a specific stereotype at UK. It is very diverse, with all kinds of different people.

Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?

Not completely. HOwever there are plenty of rednecks.

What is the stereotype of students at your school?

Some of the friendliest people around, beautiful women, great social atmosphere in the city of Lexington. Basically just really solid individuals form a productive core that we call our student body.

Describe a day on campus you'll never forget.

A day on campus that I'll never forget was during second semester of my freshman year. I was walking from class and taking one of the shortcuts through campus. There are always tons of people on the sidewalk and it gets a little crowded. I was walking with one of my roommates and a biker came out of nowhere. There was no where to go so I awkwardly stood there and unfortunately got hit by the bike. The biker felt so bad he bought me coffee and my day was made.

Why did you decide to go to this school?

I grew up in Lexington. I am a legacy for UK, my entire family are alumni. UK has always been exciting, a big part of Kentucky.

University of Kentucky

About University of Kentucky

Founded in 1865, University of Kentucky. is a Public college. Located in Kentucky, which is a city setting in Kentucky, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 22,621 full time undergraduate students, and 7,160 full time graduate students.

The University of Kentucky Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 17:1. There are 1366 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University of Kentucky include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate	90%
Application Deadline
Application Fee	50
SAT Range	1000-1250
ACT Range	22-29

Admissions at UK are considered Less Selective, with ,136% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 25 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

88% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 6% were in the top quarter, and 33% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE Reviews

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University of Kentucky.

“We”re apathetic”

31%

“We know about current events and vote”

62%

“We participate and encourage others to get involved”

“There”s nothing we won”t protest”

“We save it for the classroom”

19%

“Sometimes, but not often”

62%

“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”

17%

“All the time, including weekends”

“I”m always terrified”

“I only go out in groups”

41%

“I usually let someone know where I”m going”

57%

“I feel extremely safe”

“We don”t play sports”

“We play recreationally”

“We bought the gear”

97%

“We live for the big game”

“It”s not really our thing”

15%

“Occasinally we gallery crawl”

68%

“There are a variety of opportunities”

12%

“We”re a very artistic group”

“Haven”t met them”

“Available in class”

61%

“They keep regular office hours”

29%

“They”re always available”

“No greek life, but other groups to join”

“There is some involvement, but not a lot”

84%

“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”

10%

“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”

“We”re not into drinking at all”

19%

“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”

46%

“We only party on weekends”

30%

“There”s some drinking happening every night”

“Never, we”re here to learn”

61%

“There might be people who do”

26%

“People are known to partake on weekends”

“There”s a huge drug scene”

“We”re apathetic”

31%

“We know about current events and vote”

62%

“We participate and encourage others to get involved”

“There”s nothing we won”t protest”

“We save it for the classroom”

19%

“Sometimes, but not often”

62%

“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”

17%

“All the time, including weekends”

“I”m always terrified”

“I only go out in groups”

41%

“I usually let someone know where I”m going”

57%

“I feel extremely safe”

“We don”t play sports”

“We play recreationally”

“We bought the gear”

97%

“We live for the big game”

“It”s not really our thing”

15%

“Occasinally we gallery crawl”

68%

“There are a variety of opportunities”

12%

“We”re a very artistic group”

“Haven”t met them”

“Available in class”

61%

“They keep regular office hours”

29%

“They”re always available”

“No greek life, but other groups to join”

“There is some involvement, but not a lot”

84%

“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”

10%

“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”

“We”re not into drinking at all”

19%

“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”

46%

“We only party on weekends”

30%

“There”s some drinking happening every night”

“Never, we”re here to learn”

61%

“There might be people who do”

26%

“People are known to partake on weekends”

“There”s a huge drug scene”

Write a review, Enter to win $1,000 Scholarship

How would you rate on-campus housing?

281 Students rated on-campus housing 3.8 stars. 32 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?

225 Students rated off-campus housing 3.6 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?

301 Students rated campus food 3.5 stars. 20 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?

311 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 46 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?

311 Students rated class size 3.8 stars. 23 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?

308 Students rated school activities 4.1 stars. 44 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?

307 Students rated local services 4.2 stars. 44 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?

312 Students rated academics 4 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.

University of Kentucky REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of University of Kentucky?

160 Students rated University of Kentucky

Jayla - 12/07/2024

The University of Kentucky (UK) is recognized as a prominent university with a solid reputation for research possibilities, academic achievement, and a lively campus community. With a focus on business, engineering, healthcare, and agriculture, the UK's public research university provides a wide range of degrees in the humanities and sciences. The wide range of research centers and the substantial amount of financing it receives for programs that tackle regional and worldwide issues demonstrate its dedication to learning and creativity. The UK's commitment to student achievement, which includes providing a variety of academic tools including career assistance, tutoring, and advising, is one of the features that really appeals to me about it. My academic and professional growth would greatly benefit from the university's emphasis on mentorship and experiential learning, as well as the highly recognized faculty members. Additionally, a major factor in the UK's appeal is its sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and roles of leadership on campus, which is home to a diverse student body. The university's sense of pride and belonging is reinforced by the school's culture of pride and school spirit. The University of Kentucky offers, all things thought of, the perfect setting for both academic success and personal development. It is a location where students can cultivate the abilities, relationships, and knowledge that will influence their success in the future. Research opportunities, community involvement, and academic quality make the UK a great option for anyone looking for a balanced college experience.

Carter - 11/30/2024

The University of Kentucky (UK) is more than just a place to earn a degree—it’s a vibrant community where dreams are nurtured, talents are celebrated, and students are empowered to achieve their fullest potential. As a double major in secondary education and theater, I’ve found that the UK provides the perfect environment to combine my passions for teaching and the performing arts. One of the things I love most about the UK is the faculty. Professors here aren’t just experts in their fields; they’re genuinely invested in their students' success. In my theater classes, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with seasoned directors and actors who challenge me to refine my craft. Meanwhile, my education courses have given me hands-on experience and a deep understanding of what it means to inspire the next generation. The campus itself is stunning, with state-of-the-art facilities and a mix of historic and modern architecture. The theater spaces are incredible, providing professional-level stages and resources for students to showcase their work. Beyond academics, UK offers countless ways to get involved, from student organizations to cultural events, making it easy to feel connected and supported. What truly sets UK apart, though, is the sense of community. There’s a Wildcat pride that runs deep here—students, staff, and alumni share a bond that’s hard to describe but impossible to miss. Whether cheering on the Wildcats at a basketball game or collaborating on a creative project, the energy at UK is unmatched. I can confidently say that choosing UK was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s a place where you’re not just prepared for a career—you’re prepared for life. Go Cats!

Jessica - 08/14/2024

I chose a really good university to spend the next four years of my life at. They have an amazing business program. Their dorms are super nice and I feel safe on campus. I love this surrounding areas around Lexington. University of Kentucky is just so good that you have to experience it to understand. And don’t even get me started on the extracurricular activities they have, every day they have something and it’s perfect.

Kateri - 07/03/2024

I visited the University of Kentucky for the first time today and I absolutely fell in love with it. It is everything I am looking for in a college and more! The curriculum can be tailored to you and your future plans. The dorms are up to date and beautiful. The campus is super easy to navigate. All around it was an amazing tour and visit to the University of Kentucky.

University of Kentucky FAQS

What is the Acceptance Rate at University of Kentucky?

The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University of Kentucky is 90%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020 , _____ students were offered admission. The number of males who applied was _____ vs the number of females which was _____.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

I have gotten a better sense of the variety that exists in the world, more optimism, and, of course, a college education out of my college experience. Every person at UK has something to offer or is unexpected in some way. For instance, I went shopping today with some of my friends and my dorm's office assistant. It turns out that she's from New York and has traveled all over the US. I've also gained more optimism as I notice how many students are aware of the world and care enough to improve it. Whether the care is showed in little things, like gathering canned goods for needy families, or big things, like preparing for a mission trip to Honduras, it is evident that the majority of people are making an effort, giving me hope for the future. Through my education, I've learned more about science and world literature, useful topics that I wouldn't have been able to study in-depth if I hadn't gone to college. It has been valuable for me to attend college because I've gained thoughts and experiences (like the ones above) that I couldn't have had otherwise.
Read all 267 answers
Describe the students at your school.

My classmates are very helpful and friendly, we have studied together and spend time outside of class enjoying ourselfs.
Read all 72 answers
What's unique about your campus?

The best thing about the University of Kentucky is the atmosphere of the campus and the surrounding city. Everyone wears school colors and attends school function, be it basketball games, concerts or special lectures. The city shows its full support for the school; every business shows off the school logo or colors and will usually give student discounts. Lexington is obviously a college town and it is evident to everyone.
Read all 52 answers
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

Parking on campus is difficult and annoying.
Read all 51 answers
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

beautiful horse capital of the world.
Read all 50 answers
What kind of person should attend this school?

All kinds of people here, but those who decide to go greek will have more fun. Greeks own the social sceene, including charity.
Read all 49 answers
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

The University of Kentucky is extremely school spirited. The basketball program is well known nation wide. There's a huge fan base as well as an extremely loyal alumni association.
Read all 46 answers
What kind of person should not attend this school?

Somebody that is not used to a big school, it's a 40 minute walk to the other side of campus and some of the main university classes like chemistry can have over 200 students.
Read all 46 answers
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

There isn't really anything I wished I had known before coming to Univeristy of Kentucky. This is probably because I went on a campus tour and attended information sessions that are provided during K Week. I highly recommend new students, as well as returning students, to attend K Week events which give academic advice and allows social interaction before and during the first few days of fall and spring semester.
Read all 41 answers
Describe your favorite campus traditions.

We are really good at basketball!!!!!!! That's it...
Read all 37 answers
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

When I tell my friends about my school, I brag about our basketball and occasionally the impressive speakers that visit.
Read all 35 answers
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

There were too many graduate assistants teaching the undergraduates.
Read all 33 answers
What is your overall opinion of this school?

I love the University of Kentucky, the best thing about it is the people, whether they're in Lexington, students, faculty, even the custodians make you feel welcome and part of the family. As for the size I think it's just right for me, coming from Texas, I really didn't want to go to a big school where there's 500 students per class. Partially because I didn't think I'd make that many friends with the fact that I'd probably be sitting next to someone different every time and mainly because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to connect with my teachers as well. The teachers are great, all of them very knowledgeable and considerate to the fact that every student is unique. There hasn't been a teacher yet that wasn't happy to go over tests with me or help me with my papers. Speaking of help... UK offers a lot of free tutoring, both for general subjects and more specific ones.If you do consider Kentucky, know that you will acquire school spirit, even if it's not in your nature. I don't think I've ever been more excited for my school in terms of academics and sports. I think it's because wherever I go to support them I always have a good time. GO BIG BLUE!
Read all 22 answers
What are the academics like at your school?

I always make sure that my professor at least knows my face, by shaking their hand and introducing myself after the first lecture day. My studio professors and architecture professors probably know me the most. (perhaps cause I spend most of my time there haha). I guess I'll try to explain what I've experienced in the College of Design. We study a lot (especially for history), that be said though we probably spend more time working in studio (aproximently 24-40+ hrs a week [just studio]) and it is pretty competitive just because everyone is trying to have the best project in the school, because one of the guest might see it and offer you a great job, not to mention were trying to build portfolios for grad school.
Read all 20 answers
What are the most popular student activities/groups?

The most popular activity on campus would be going to see football or basketball games. There is nothing like going to see our basketball team play. The students get so intense, and the sense of school pride is just amazing. I am involved in an student organization called SnowCats, which is a snowboarding and ski club for the university. Once a year, they take a trip out west to go on a ski trip. It has a fairly active dating scene, and the girls and guys on Kentucky's campus are quite nice. I met most of my closest friends through my dorm, or they happened to live near me and we found common interests. People party on the weekends, and pretty much go every weekend, but stay calm during the weekdays. There's a bunch of cool places to go in Lexington, and there's a bunch of on campus events as well. But if those don't interest you, just grab a couple friends and figure something out to do on the spot. Those kind of nights always seem to go the best.
Read all 18 answers
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

In all honesty I don't believe their is a specific stereotype at UK. It is very diverse, with all kinds of different people.
Read all 15 answers
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?

Not completely. HOwever there are plenty of rednecks.
Read all 11 answers
What is the stereotype of students at your school?

Some of the friendliest people around, beautiful women, great social atmosphere in the city of Lexington. Basically just really solid individuals form a productive core that we call our student body.
Read all 9 answers
Describe a day on campus you'll never forget.

A day on campus that I'll never forget was during second semester of my freshman year. I was walking from class and taking one of the shortcuts through campus. There are always tons of people on the sidewalk and it gets a little crowded. I was walking with one of my roommates and a biker came out of nowhere. There was no where to go so I awkwardly stood there and unfortunately got hit by the bike. The biker felt so bad he bought me coffee and my day was made.
Read all 4 answers
Why did you decide to go to this school?

I grew up in Lexington. I am a legacy for UK, my entire family are alumni. UK has always been exciting, a big part of Kentucky.
Read all 3 answers

Student Body

Students

54%

female

46%

male

22,621

Total Undergrad Enrollment

7,160

Total Grad Students

37%

Out-Of-State

61%

In-State

International

Organizations

420

Student Organizations

Fraternities

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

23%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native

N/A

% Asian/Pacific Islander

% Black or African-American

% Hispanic/Latino

% White or Caucasian

75%

TUITION & AID

All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA. Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.

93% of students attending University of Kentucky receive some sort of financial aid. 24% were awarded federal grants. While 48% received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

$26,334

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$1,000

Books and Supplies

$12,184

Room and Board

39,518

Total On Campus

Family Income

Cost

$0 - $30K

$13,535

$30 - $48K

$13,914

$48 - $75K

$17,156

$75 - $110K

$20,878

$110K & UP

$21,637

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

University of Kentucky

Lexington KY , 40506-0032

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