In 2025, the average tuition and fees at 7 four-year public Kentucky colleges is $24,083, reflecting a 1.53% increase compared to the previous year.
University of Kentucky ranks as the most expensive public Kentucky colleges, with tuition and fees reaching $34,140. Known for its prestigious academic programs and strong reputation, University of Kentucky remains a top choice for students seeking a premium education experience.
Close behind are University of Louisville at$29,482 and Western Kentucky University at$27,000 both consistently recognized among the Kentucky Public Colleges with the Highest Tuition & Fees, offering high-quality academic programs and resources.
At these High-Cost Kentucky Public Colleges, the average acceptance rate is 82.05%, and the average SAT score is 1,055, making them not only cost-effective but also accessible options for a wide range of students.
| School Name | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees | Graduate Tuition & Fees | Acceptance Rate | Total Population | SAT Score | Graduation Rate | Students to Faculty Ratio | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 - | University of Kentucky Lexington, KYPublic, 4-year | $34,140 ($13,502) $734 | $36,238 ($14,644) $779 | 92.94% | 34,709 | 1,180 | 71.00% | 18 to 1 |
| 2 - | University of Louisville Louisville, KYPublic, 4-year | $29,482 ($13,136) $308 | $30,546 ($15,128) $1,444 | 79.41% | 23,065 | 1,150 | 61.00% | 14 to 1 |
| 3 - | Western Kentucky University Bowling Green, KYPublic, 4-year | $27,000 ($11,652) - | $18,340 ($12,140) - | 93.87% | 16,291 | 930 | 56.00% | 19 to 1 |
| 4 - | Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights, KYPublic, 4-year | $21,912 ($11,088) $432 | $16,350 ($10,788) $306 | 67.65% | 15,347 | 1,040 | 52.00% | 19 to 1 |
| 5 - | Eastern Kentucky University Richmond, KYPublic, 4-year | $21,230 ($10,320) $410 | $14,628 ($10,794) $288 | 77.61% | 15,673 | 970 | 50.00% | 17 to 1 |
| 6 - | Murray State University Murray, KYPublic, 4-year | $19,836 ($9,900) $384 | $10,683 ($10,683) $315 | 85.68% | 10,020 | 1,060 | 61.00% | 17 to 1 |
| 7 - | Morehead State University Morehead, KYPublic, 4-year | $14,980 ($10,024) $274 | $10,512 ($10,512) - | 77.21% | 8,791 | - | 52.00% | 16 to 1 |
| Average | $24,083 ($11,375) | $19,614 ($12,098) | 82.05% | 17,699 | 1,055 | 57.57% | 17 to 1 |