Explore Kentucky Colleges
Colleges in Kentucky
Explore 33 colleges and universities in Kentucky, including 8 public institutions and 25 private schools. Compare tuition costs, acceptance rates, and find your perfect fit.
33
Total Colleges
8
Public
25
Private
Kentucky at a Glance
Avg Acceptance Rate
6567%
Average acceptance rate for Kentucky colleges
Avg Net Price
$17,429.548
After financial aid
Avg In-State Tuition
$21,680.625
For public universities
Kentucky Colleges Directory
Browse 33 colleges in Kentucky, sorted by ranking and selectivity.
Lexington, KY•Public
93%
Acceptance Rate$27,512/yr
1070-1290
70%
"Flagship public anchoring horse country with Wildcat basketball fever and top equine research."
Louisville, KY•Public
79%
Acceptance Rate$24,900/yr
1040-1270
60%
"Kentucky's urban research engine driving engineering, medicine, and innovation amid bourbon trails and Derby crowds."
Danville, KY•Private
54%
Acceptance Rate$62,410/yr
1160-1450
87%
"Kentucky's tight-knit liberal arts powerhouse where you'll debate policy over bourbon in a historic town that feels worlds away from everywhere else."
Berea, KY•Private
19%
Acceptance Rate$52,508/yr
1156-1335
80%
"Earn your tuition-free liberal arts degree through hands-on campus work at America's pioneering interracial college."
Lexington, KY•Private
87%
Acceptance Rate$55,980/yr
1120-1380
76%
"Transylvania University delivers intimate liberal arts learning in the heart of Kentucky's horse country, where you'll debate philosophy amid bourbon distilleries and bluegrass fields."
Murray, KY•Public
86%
Acceptance Rate$19,308/yr
940-1170
64%
"Murray State University is located in Murray, KY."
Williamsburg, KY•Private
99%
Acceptance Rate$19,175/yr
940-1130
45%
"A small Kentucky campus with a big heart for affordability and personalized education."
Georgetown, KY•Private
91%
Acceptance Rate$52,294/yr
960-1160
63%
"Historic Kentucky liberal arts college famed for its pioneering American Sign Language program amid Thoroughbred horse farms."
Highland Heights, KY•Public
68%
Acceptance Rate$22,920/yr
953-1150
55%
"Northern Kentucky University blends small-town charm with big-city access, just minutes from Cincinnati's vibrant opportunities."
Bowling Green, KY•Public
94%
Acceptance Rate$23,694/yr
840-1050
59%
"A welcoming hilltop campus in Bowling Green, where Southern charm meets hands-on learning at an accessible price."
Richmond, KY•Public
78%
Acceptance Rate$21,812/yr
880-1080
55%
"Eastern Kentucky University blends small-town charm with a practical, career-focused education in the heart of Bluegrass country."
Frankfort, KY•Public
96%
Acceptance Rate$16,540/yr
820-1010
52%
"Kentucky State University is located in Frankfort, KY."
Pikeville, KY•Private
96%
Acceptance Rate$32,000/yr
900-1100
59%
"A small Appalachian haven where personal attention shapes future healthcare leaders in a tight-knit community."
Louisville, KY•Private
86%
Acceptance Rate$54,690/yr
1030-1250
71%
"A tight-knit Catholic university in Louisville where personal growth and community drive the college experience."
Louisville, KY•Private
99%
Acceptance Rate$36,200/yr
875-1038
55%
"Spalding University is located in Louisville, KY."
Owensboro, KY•Private
72%
Acceptance Rate$41,895/yr
890-1130
54%
"Kentucky Wesleyan College is located in Owensboro, KY."
Barbourville, KY•Private
63%
Acceptance Rate$35,992/yr
920-1105
43%
"Tiny Appalachian liberal arts college where professors mentor small classes and students tackle community service head-on."
Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Colleges
Berea College is the highest-ranked university in Kentucky, ranked #82 nationally. The state is home to several prestigious institutions offering world-class education across various fields.
The average tuition at Kentucky colleges varies by institution type. For public universities, the average in-state tuition is $21,681 per year. Out-of-state students pay an average of $24,508. After financial aid, the average net price is $17,430.
The average acceptance rate for colleges in Kentucky is 66%. However, acceptance rates vary significantly by institution, with some highly selective universities accepting less than 10% of applicants while others maintain open enrollment policies.
To qualify for in-state tuition at Kentucky public universities, you typically need to establish residency for at least 12 months before enrolling. Requirements usually include living in the state, having a Kentucky driver's license, registering to vote in the state, and demonstrating intent to remain. Specific requirements vary by institution, so check with your chosen school's admissions office.
Kentucky is located in the Southeast region of the United States. The Southeast combines Southern hospitality with top-tier research universities and a growing tech sector, offering excellent value and vibrant campus life.
Kentucky offers a range of affordable college options. The average net price after financial aid is $17,430. Public universities in Kentucky provide particularly strong value for in-state residents, with lower tuition rates and access to state financial aid programs.
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