Northern Kentucky University (NKU) is a four-year, public school located in Highland Heights, KY. It is classified as Doctoral / Research University by Carnegie Classification, also known as D/PU (Doctoral/Professional University). You can compare their tuition and admission statistics at D/PU (Doctoral/Professional University) comparison page.
The NKU's tuition & fees is $11,088 for Kentucky residents and $21,912 for out-of-state students for the academic year 2024-2025. 86% of the enrolled undergraduates have received grants or scholarships, with an average aid amount of $8,760.
The school has a total enrollment of 15,347 and the students to faculty ratio is 19 to 1 (5.26%).
NKU's acceptance rate is 67.65% and the yield (enrollment rate) is 36.85%. The median SAT score is 1040 and the ACT score is 21.
NKU ranked 6th in Kentucky Colleges rankings. Northern Kentucky University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.
For undergraduate programs, the 2025 tuition & fees of Northern Kentucky University is $11,088 for in-state students and $21,912 for out-of-state students. For graduate programs, its 2025 tuition & fees is $10,788 for in-state students and $16,350 for out-of-state students.
The estimated 2026 tuition & fees for prospective students is $11,283 for Kentucky residents and $22,353 for out-of-state students based on the current year tuition changes from last year. The estimated 2026 graduate school tuition & fees is $10,990 for Kentucky residents and $16,662 for out-of-state students.
| In-State | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $11,088 | $21,912 |
| Graduate | $10,788 | $16,350 |
| In-State | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $11,283 | $22,353 |
| Graduate | $10,990 | $16,662 |
The estimation for 2025-2026 tuition costs is based on the cost change rates of last year.
| Acceptance Rate » | 67.65% Acceptance Rate / 36.85% Yield |
|---|---|
| Test Scores » | 1,040 SAT / 21 ACT |
| Graduation Rate » | 52% |
| Retention Rate | 76%(full-time), 49% (part-time) |
| Student to Faculty Ratio | 5.26% (19 to 1) |
| Student Population » | 15,347 (10,163 undergraduate) |
| Average Financial Aid » | $8,760 |
Data source: IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), College Scorecard
Northern Kentucky University offers online classes (distance learning opportunities) for both undergraduate and graduate programs. It has ROTC programs and offers teacher certification programs designed to prepare students to meet the requirements for certification as teachers.
| Learning Opportunities | |
|---|---|
| ROTC | Army, Air Force |
| Weekend/Evening College | Yes |
| Teacher Certification | Yes |
| Study Abroad | Yes |
| On-Campus Services | |
| Academic/career counseling service | Yes |
| Employment services for students | Yes |
| Placement services for completers | Yes |
| On-campus day care for students' children | Yes |
| Address | Nunn Drive, Highland Heights, KY 41099 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 859-572-5100 |
| WEB | School's Website |
| Admission | Admission Information |
| Online Application | Apply Online |
| Financial Aid | Deadlines and Applications |
| Net Price Calculator | Net Price Calculator |
| Veterans Tuition | Veterans Benefit Information |
| Athletic | Athletic Team Information |
| Disability Service | Disability Services |
| School Type | four-year, public |
| Carnegie Category | Doctoral / Research University (not R1, R2) |
| Highest Degree Offered | Doctor's degree |
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