Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Northern Kentucky University vs University of Kentucky

Highland Heights, KY · Lexington, KY · Source: IPEDS federal database

Northern Kentucky UniversityUniversity of Kentucky
Acceptance Rate96.0%92.4%
In-State Tuition$10,896$13,212
Out-of-State Tuition$21,480$33,406
Average Net Price$8,151$19,838
Graduation Rate48.0%70.0%

GradFax Analysis

Northern Kentucky University accepts 96.0% of applicants. University of Kentucky accepts 92.4%. Northern Kentucky University's in-state tuition is $10,896. University of Kentucky's is $13,212. Northern Kentucky University is cheaper. Northern Kentucky University graduates 48% of students in 6 years. University of Kentucky graduates 70%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $8,151/year at Northern Kentucky University and $19,838/year at University of Kentucky. Northern Kentucky University is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Northern Kentucky University profileUniversity of Kentucky profile

Common Questions

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

University of Kentucky. It accepts 92.4% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Northern Kentucky University or University of Kentucky more affordable?

Northern Kentucky University, on average. After aid, students pay $8,151/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. Northern Kentucky University is at 48%.

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.

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