Western Kentucky University

WKU Overview

Western Kentucky University (WKU) is a four-year, public school located in Bowling Green, 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 WKU's tuition & fees is $11,652 for Kentucky residents and $27,000 for out-of-state students for the academic year 2024-2025. 87% of the enrolled undergraduates have received grants or scholarships, with an average aid amount of $9,681.

The school has a total enrollment of 16,291 and the students to faculty ratio is 19 to 1 (5.26%).

WKU's acceptance rate is 93.87% and the yield (enrollment rate) is 30.18%. The median SAT score is 930 and the ACT score is 18.

WKU ranked 10th in Kentucky Colleges rankings. Western Kentucky University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

Explore Western Kentucky University

2025 Tuition & Fees and 2026 Estimation

For undergraduate programs, the 2025 tuition & fees of Western Kentucky University is $11,652 for in-state students and $27,000 for out-of-state students. For graduate programs, its 2025 tuition & fees is $12,140 for in-state students and $18,340 for out-of-state students.

The estimated 2026 tuition & fees for prospective students is $11,872 for Kentucky residents and $27,000 for out-of-state students based on the current year tuition changes from last year. The estimated 2026 graduate school tuition & fees is $12,140 for Kentucky residents and $18,340 for out-of-state students.

In-StateOut-of-State
Undergraduate$11,652$27,000
Graduate$12,140$18,340
In-StateOut-of-State
Undergraduate$11,872$27,000
Graduate$12,140$18,340

The estimation for 2025-2026 tuition costs is based on the cost change rates of last year.

Admission Key Statistics

Acceptance Rate »93.87% Acceptance Rate / 30.18% Yield
Test Scores »930 SAT / 18 ACT
Graduation Rate »56%
Transfer-out Rate2%
Retention Rate78%(full-time), 41% (part-time)
Student to Faculty Ratio5.26% (19 to 1)
Student Population »16,291 (14,151 undergraduate)
Average Financial Aid »$9,681

Data source: IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), College Scorecard

Learning Opportunities and Campus Services

Western 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.

Special Learning Opportunities at WKU
Learning Opportunities
ROTCArmy, Air Force
Weekend/Evening CollegeNo
Teacher CertificationYes
Study AbroadYes
On-Campus Services
Academic/career counseling serviceYes
Employment services for studentsYes
Placement services for completersYes
On-campus day care for students' childrenYes

Western Kentucky University Directory Information

Address1906 College Heights Blvd, Bowling Green, KY 42101-1000
Phone270-745-0111
WEBSchool's Website
AdmissionAdmission Information
Online ApplicationApply Online
Financial AidDeadlines and Applications
Net Price CalculatorNet Price Calculator
Veterans TuitionVeterans Benefit Information
AthleticAthletic Team Information
Disability ServiceDisability Services
School Typefour-year, public
Carnegie CategoryDoctoral / Research University (not R1, R2)
Highest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree

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