Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Murray State University vs University of Kentucky

Murray, KY · Lexington, KY · Source: IPEDS federal database

Murray State UniversityUniversity of Kentucky
Acceptance Rate86.2%92.4%
In-State Tuition$9,708$13,212
Out-of-State Tuition$19,452$33,406
Average Net Price$9,738$19,838
Graduation Rate60.0%70.0%

GradFax Analysis

Murray State University accepts 86.2% of applicants. University of Kentucky accepts 92.4%. Murray State University's in-state tuition is $9,708. University of Kentucky's is $13,212. Murray State University is cheaper. Murray State University graduates 60% of students in 6 years. University of Kentucky graduates 70%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $9,738/year at Murray State University and $19,838/year at University of Kentucky. Murray State University is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Murray State University profileUniversity of Kentucky profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Murray State University or University of Kentucky?

Murray State University. It accepts 86.2% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Murray State University or University of Kentucky more affordable?

Murray State University, on average. After aid, students pay $9,738/year versus $19,838/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

University of Kentucky: 70% of students finish in 6 years. Murray State University is at 60%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Murray State University vs University of Kentucky: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax