University of Kentucky's published cost of attendance reaches $32,291 annually, including $13,212 in-state tuition, $15,242 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $33,406.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $34,391 |
| Tuition and Fees | $34,140 |
| Room and Board | $16,016 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$15,540 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $18,851 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $12,182 |
| $30–48k | $12,119 |
| $48–75k | $16,313 |
| $75–110k | $21,192 |
| $110k+ | $26,781 |
University of Kentucky's published cost of attendance reaches $32,291 annually, including $13,212 in-state tuition, $15,242 for room and board, and $1,200 for books and supplies. Out-of-state students face higher tuition of $33,406. However, the average student pays significantly less after financial aid, with a net price of $17,218 representing $15,073 in financial aid savings.
This net price falls $1,628 below the peer median of $15,590, making University of Kentucky more affordable than similar institutions. The cost structure reflects University of Kentucky's commitment to accessible higher education, particularly for Kentucky residents who benefit from in-state tuition rates. Net prices vary substantially by family income, ranging from $10,267 for families earning under $30,000 to $24,687 for families earning over $110,000.
University of Kentucky demonstrates commitment to financial accessibility through substantial aid distribution. The $15,073 average financial aid savings reduces the published cost from $32,291 to a net price of $17,218.
This aid effectiveness benefits students across income levels, though lower-income families receive the most significant support. The institution's 21.5% Pell share indicates moderate enrollment of students from lower-income backgrounds nationally, though this represents significant support within Kentucky's demographic context.
Net prices below peer institutions suggest that University of Kentucky prioritizes affordability alongside educational quality. The aid structure supports the institution's role as a public university serving Kentucky residents, with particular attention to making higher education accessible for families with limited financial resources.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
University of Kentucky graduates carry median debt of $22,500, placing the institution at the 52nd percentile nationally and $2,500 above the peer median of $20,000. Student debt varies considerably, with the 25th percentile at $5,898 and the 75th percentile at $26,885, indicating that many students graduate with minimal borrowing while others approach federal loan limits.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 suggests manageable borrowing relative to post-graduation income, as graduates earn $59,025 annually. Parent PLUS loans show a median of $25,629 with monthly payments of $337.52, representing additional family borrowing beyond student loans.
The debt distribution suggests that approximately half of graduates borrow $22,500 or less, while the other half carry higher debt loads. The relationship between debt levels and earnings indicates that most graduates should manage loan repayment successfully, though individual circumstances vary by program choice and career trajectory.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
University of Kentucky presents a mixed return on investment profile. Graduates earn $59,025 ten years after enrollment, ranking at the 69th percentile nationally and demonstrating above-average long-term earnings.
However, graduates earn $12,960 below expectations compared to similar students elsewhere, ranking at just the 9th percentile for earnings beyond expectations. This suggests that while absolute earnings are reasonable, the institution may not maximize student potential relative to other options.
Median debt of $22,500 exceeds peer institutions by $2,500, though the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 remains manageable. The combination produces above-average return performance at the 60.7th percentile nationally.
