Eastern Kentucky University admits 78.1% of applicants, representing open access admission that welcomes a broad range of students. This acceptance rate means roughly 4 in 5 applicants receive offers of admission, making Eastern Kentucky University significantly more accessible than many four-year institutions. The peer median admission rate of 78.1% indicates Eastern Kentucky University aligns exactly with similar public regional universities in terms of admission selectivity. This level of accessibility means qualified students have strong prospects for admission while still maintaining academic standards through standardized test requirements. Students considering Eastern Kentucky University should view admission as highly achievable with solid academic preparation. The open access approach supports the institution's mission of serving diverse student populations, including 38.6% Pell-eligible and 40.0% first-generation students. For college planning purposes, students should treat Eastern Kentucky University as a likely admission option while still submitting complete applications demonstrating academic readiness and program interest. The high acceptance rate combined with strong post-graduation outcomes makes Eastern Kentucky University attractive for students seeking accessible pathways to career success.
A directional estimate — not a prediction
Admitted students at Eastern Kentucky University typically score between 930 and 1,190 on the SAT, with a median of 1,089. The middle 50% range shows math scores from 450 to 590 and verbal scores from 480 to 600. On the ACT, admitted students score between 17 and 24, with a median of 21. These test score ranges indicate Eastern Kentucky University enrolls students with solid academic preparation, though not at the highly competitive levels seen at selective institutions. Eastern Kentucky University's SAT median of 1,089 falls 109 points below the peer median of 1,198, while the ACT median of 21 compares to a peer median of 25. This difference reflects the institution's commitment to serving students across a broader academic spectrum. Students scoring within the 930-1,190 SAT range or 17-24 ACT range should feel academically competitive for admission. Those scoring below these ranges are not automatically excluded, as Eastern Kentucky University considers multiple factors in admission decisions. Students should consider whether their academic profile aligns with institutional expectations and their likelihood of academic success given retention rates and support systems available. The test score ranges reflect the diverse academic backgrounds Eastern Kentucky University serves while maintaining standards that support degree completion.
Understanding institutional priorities and student support
Eastern Kentucky University enrolls a diverse student body with significant representation from underrepresented backgrounds. The institution serves 38.6% Pell-eligible students and 40.0% first-generation students, indicating substantial commitment to educational access and economic mobility. Transfer students comprise 31.4% of enrollment, reflecting pathways for students beginning their higher education journey at community colleges or other institutions. This composition suggests Eastern Kentucky University actively recruits and supports students from varied educational and economic circumstances. The high percentages of Pell-eligible and first-generation students indicate the institution prioritizes serving populations that might otherwise face barriers to higher education access. Students from lower-income families should note the 38.6% Pell share represents a substantial peer community sharing similar financial circumstances. First-generation students can find support knowing that 40% of enrolled students are also navigating higher education without family experience. The significant transfer population suggests Eastern Kentucky University welcomes students seeking to complete their degrees after starting elsewhere, though transfer applicants should verify credit transfer policies and program requirements.
Given Eastern Kentucky University's 78.1% acceptance rate, most academically prepared students should expect admission. However, students seeking alternative options or different institutional characteristics have several pathways.
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Eastern Kentucky University retains 79.6% of first-year students through to sophomore year, compared to a peer median of 83.7%. The graduation rate reaches 49.7% within six years, below the peer median of 65.9%. Pell-eligible students graduate at 38.9%, representing a 10.8 percentage point gap compared to the overall completion rate of 49.7%. These completion patterns indicate Eastern Kentucky University faces challenges in supporting all students through degree completion, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds. Students considering Eastern Kentucky University should weigh these retention and completion rates against their academic preparation and support needs. The gap between Pell and overall completion rates suggests lower-income students may face additional barriers to degree completion. Prospective students should consider their likelihood of persistence given these institutional outcomes and available support systems. The retention rate of 79.6% means roughly 1 in 5 first-year students do not return for sophomore year, indicating the importance of academic preparation and engagement. Students who gain admission should plan for active involvement in academic support services and campus resources to maximize their probability of degree completion.
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