DEEPCOLLEGES · OPS · v3.3 SCHOOLS·INDEXED 120 SOURCES IPEDS · CDS · SCORECARD LAST·SYNC 2026.04.29

Best Colleges in Kentucky: Ranked by Value & Outcomes

Ranked by graduate outcomes and value — not prestige.

Top Colleges in Kentucky

#1
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY · Public
92.4%
accept
$59,025
Salary (10yr)

FAQs about colleges in Kentucky

How many colleges are in Kentucky ranked on this page?
This guide ranks 1 colleges in Kentucky by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.
What is the hardest college to get into in Kentucky?
University of Kentucky has the lowest acceptance rate among Kentucky colleges on this list at 92.4%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.
Which Kentucky college has the highest graduate salary?
University of Kentucky graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Kentucky colleges on this list, at $59,025. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.
Should I stay in Kentucky for college?
In-state public colleges in Kentucky typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Kentucky charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.
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Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.