University of Kentucky (UK), established in 1865, is a premier public research university located in Lexington, Kentucky. As the state’s flagship institution, it offers a wide array of programs across 16 colleges, including Engineering, Business & Economics, Nursing, and Arts & Sciences.
As of the 2023–2024 academic year, UK enrolled approximately 32,703 students, including 23,930 undergraduates and 8,773 graduate students. The university prides itself on its diverse student body, with 73.7% White, 7.03% Black or African American, 5.64% Hispanic or Latino, and 3.72% Asian representation. The gender distribution is roughly 60% female and 40% male.
UK offers a variety of scholarship opportunities. For incoming freshmen, options include the Provost Scholarship ($2,500–$5,000), Presidential Scholarship (full in-state tuition), and Otis A. Singletary Scholarship (full tuition plus housing stipend). International students may qualify for the Bluegrass Spirit Academic Scholarship ($5,000–$12,500) and the International Ambassador Scholarship (up to 50% tuition).
The university employs over 1,150 faculty members, including 428 professors, 406 associate professors, and 316 assistant professors. Prominent alumni include author Wendell Berry, Senator Mitch McConnell, and actress Ashley Judd.
The University offers a centralized digital hub, myUK portal for students. It offers access to academic records, course registration, financial aid, and campus resources.
University of Kentucky Courses
University of Kentucky courses offers a wide array of academic programs designed to meet the evolving demands of students and the workforce. Among its 200+ programs, several stand out due to their popularity, academic rigor, and career prospects. These programs are backed by strong faculty, research opportunities, and industry connections. Below is a table highlighting some of the most popular courses at UK:
| Program Area | Popular Majors/Courses | Highlights |
| Engineering | Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Biomedical | Strong research focus, hands-on labs, industry partnerships |
| Business & Economics | Finance, Marketing, Accounting, Management | AACSB-accredited, MBA options, internship opportunities |
| Nursing | Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), DNP | Highly ranked, state-of-the-art simulation labs, clinical placements |
| Health Sciences | Physical Therapy, Pharmacy, Human Health Sciences | Access to UK HealthCare system, strong clinical training |
| Agriculture, Food & Environment | Animal Sciences, Ag Economics, Plant & Soil Sciences | Land-grant mission, extensive research farms and facilities |
| Arts & Sciences | Biology, Psychology, Political Science, English | Versatile degrees, prep for grad school or professional careers |
| Education | Elementary Education, Educational Leadership, Counseling | Licensure pathways, partnerships with local schools |
University of Kentucky Course Fees
University of Kentucky (UK) offers a diverse range of academic programs with tuition and fees varying based on residency status, program level, and course delivery method. Below is a summary of the tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year:
University of Kentucky Undergraduate Tuition (Per Semester)
You may check the table below summarizing the University of Kentucky undergraduate tuition fees:
| Residency Status | Tuition | Mandatory Fees | Total |
| Kentucky Resident | $6,054.50 | $696.50 | $6,751.00 |
| Non-Resident | $16,373.50 | $696.50 | $17,070.00 |
Note: Tuition rates are capped at 12 credit hours per semester. Additional fees may apply for specific courses or programs.
University of Kentucky Graduate Tuition (Per Semester)
You may check the table below summarizing the University of Kentucky Graduate tuition fees:
| Program Type | Residency Status | Tuition |
| General Graduate Programs | Resident | $7,322.00 |
| Non-Resident | $18,119.00 | |
| Distance Education (Online Only) | Resident & Non-Resident | $6,761.00 |
| Professional Graduate Programs | Resident | $7,680.50 |
| Non-Resident | $18,540.50 | |
| Health Professional Programs | Resident | $7,893.00 |
| Non-Resident | $18,787.50 |
Note: Tuition rates are based on full-time enrollment. Per credit hour rates and additional fees may apply.
University of Kentucky Professional Program Tuition (Annual)
Check also the annual professional program tuition of University of Kentucky in the table below:
| Program | Residency Status | Tuition |
| College of Dentistry | Resident | $38,538.00 |
| Non-Resident | $83,701.00 | |
| College of Pharmacy | Resident | $30,198.00 |
| Non-Resident | $56,675.00 | |
| College of Medicine | Resident | $42,094.00 |
| Non-Resident | $76,842.00 | |
| College of Law | Resident | $26,755.50 |
| Non-Resident | $51,410.00 |
Note: These figures represent tuition only and do not include additional costs such as fees, housing, or materials.
For a comprehensive breakdown of tuition and fees, including per credit hour rates and additional program-specific costs, please refer to the University of Kentucky Student Account Services.
University of Kentucky Scholarship
The University of Kentucky (UK) offers a comprehensive range of scholarship programs designed to support students across various academic levels and backgrounds. These scholarships cater to incoming freshmen, international students, transfer students, and current enrollees, with awards based on academic merit, financial need, and leadership potential.
Scholarships for Incoming Freshmen
UK provides several renewable scholarships for first-time freshmen:
| Scholarship Name | Award Amount | Eligibility Criteria | Application Deadline |
| Presidential Scholarship | Full in-state tuition | Minimum 31 ACT or 1390 SAT and 3.50 unweighted GPA; completion of competitive scholarship section in admission application. | December 1, 2024 |
| Otis A. Singletary Scholarship | Full in-state tuition plus housing stipend | Minimum 33 ACT or 1450 SAT and 3.80 unweighted GPA; completion of competitive scholarship section in admission application; enrollment in Lewis Honors College required. | December 1, 2024 |
| William C. Parker Belonging Scholarship | Varies ($5,000–$15,000 per year) | Minimum 2.50 unweighted GPA; submission of a 500-word essay highlighting contributions to diversity and inclusion; completion of scholarship section in admission application. | Priority: December 1, 2024; Final: February 15, 2025 |
| Bluegrass Spirit Scholarship | $5,000–$12,500 per year | Awarded based on academic merit; no separate application required; students are automatically considered upon admission. | December 1, 2024 |
| Kentucky Governor’s Scholar Provost Scholarship | $1,500 per year | Completion of Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program; automatic consideration upon admission. | December 1, 2024 |
Note: Eligibility criteria and deadlines are subject to change. Please refer to the official UK website for the most current information.
UKY Scholarships for International Students
UK offers scholarships specifically for international undergraduates:
- Bluegrass Spirit Academic Scholarship: Awards range from $5,000 to $12,500 per year, based on GPA and SAT scores.
- W.C. Parker Belonging Scholarship: Provides $5,000–$15,000 annually, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a supplementary essay.
- International Ambassador Scholarship: Covers $3,000 to 50% of tuition, with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and additional materials.International Center
Note: Deadlines and eligibility criteria may vary. It’s essential to consult the official UK website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Scholarships for Transfer Students
International transfer students can apply for:
- Transfer Achievement Scholarship: $4,000 per year for students with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Trustees Scholarship: Approximately $8,000 per year for students with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: Approximately $15,000 per year for members in good standing with at least 48 credit hours completed.
Note: These scholarships are renewable and can be combined. Students who qualify for in-state tuition are ineligible for these scholarships. Deadlines and eligibility criteria are subject to change; please refer to the official UK website for current information.
UKY Need-Based Scholarships
UK offers a limited number of need-based scholarships for incoming freshmen, currently enrolled, and transfer students. To be considered, students must be admitted to the university and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The University’s Title IV code is 001989. Need-based scholarship offers are typically announced in late spring each year.
UKY Scholarship Universe Platform
UK utilizes Scholarship Universe, an online platform that matches students to relevant, vetted external scholarship opportunities, as well as internal scholarships offered by the university. This tool is available for currently enrolled UK students and admitted prospective students who have a LinkBlue account.
MyUK Portal
The myUK portal is the University of Kentucky’s centralized online platform that provides students, faculty, and staff with secure access to essential academic, administrative, and financial services. Through myUK, users can manage course registration, view grades, access financial aid details, update personal information, and connect with campus resources.
MyUK portal is accessible both via desktop and mobile, and it plays a crucial role in simplifying campus operations and personal account management.
How to Log In to the myUK Portal
Follow these simple steps to access your myUK account:
- Visit the myUK Portal
Go to the official portal link: myUK.uky.edu
- Enter Your LinkBlue Credentials
- Username: Your LinkBlue ID (usually the part before “@uky.edu” in your email)
- Password: Your associated LinkBlue password
(First-time users must activate their LinkBlue account at newstudent.uky.edu)
- Complete Two-Factor Authentication (if prompted)
You may be required to verify your identity via Duo Mobile or another authentication method for added security.
- Navigate the Dashboard
After logging in, you’ll see various tabs and tools for:
- Class Registration & Academic Records
- Financial Aid & Tuition Payment
- Housing, Meal Plans, and Health Services
- Work-study, Employment, and HR Services (for student workers and staff)
Common myUK Portal Issues & Troubleshooting Steps
If you’re having trouble accessing or using the myUK portal, you’re not alone—issues can occasionally arise due to login errors, browser compatibility, or system maintenance. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide to help you resolve common problems:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
| Login failure | Incorrect LinkBlue ID or password | Double-check your credentials. Reset your password at passwordreset.uky.edu if needed. |
| Two-factor authentication not working | Duo Mobile app issue or phone not synced | Reinstall the Duo app or contact UKIT for Duo reset assistance. Make sure your phone’s time is correct. |
| Page not loading or displaying errors | Browser incompatibility or outdated cache | Clear your browser cache, try a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge), or update your browser. |
| Access denied to certain services | Insufficient permissions or hold on account | Check for financial holds or registration restrictions in your Student Services tab. Contact the Registrar or Financial Aid office if needed. |
| System outage or maintenance | Scheduled downtime or temporary issues | Visit uknow.uky.edu for outage updates or wait and try again later. |
| Missing courses or schedule info | Delay in system update or advisor hold | Contact your academic advisor or department to verify registration. |
UKY FAQs
What are the most popular courses at the University of Kentucky?
A: The University of Kentucky offers over 200 academic programs, with top courses in Engineering, Business, Nursing, Health Sciences, and Agriculture. These programs are known for strong faculty, research opportunities, and career prospects. UK’s College of Nursing and Gatton College of Business and Economics are particularly well-regarded.
How much does it cost to study at the University of Kentucky?
A: For undergraduates, tuition per semester is approximately $6,751 for in-state students and $17,070 for non-residents. Graduate and professional program fees vary, with higher rates for specialized programs like Medicine or Dentistry. Additional costs include housing, books, and other campus fees.
Are scholarships available at the University of Kentucky?
A: Yes, UK offers a wide range of scholarships including merit-based, need-based, and diversity-focused awards like the W.C. Parker Belonging Scholarship. Incoming freshmen, transfer, and international students are all eligible for different scholarships. Many awards are renewable and require applications by December 1 or February 15.
How do I apply for scholarships at UK?
Scholarships can be applied for through the admissions portal or Scholarship Universe, UK’s online matching system. Some scholarships, like the Bluegrass Spirit, are automatic, while others require essays or additional documents. Always check specific eligibility and deadlines on the UK website.
What is the myUK portal used for?
A: The myUK portal is the official student system for course registration, grades, tuition payments, and financial aid tracking. Students can also update personal information, manage housing, and access advising services. It’s essential for both academic and administrative functions.
How do I log into the myUK portal?
A: Go to myUK.uky.edu and enter your LinkBlue ID and password. First-time users must activate their account via newstudent.uky.edu. Two-factor authentication through Duo Mobile may be required for secure access.
What should I do if I can’t access myUK?
A: If you’re unable to log in, first reset your password at passwordreset.uky.edu. Make sure your browser is updated and clear your cache. For persistent issues, contact UKIT at 859-218-HELP or email 218help@uky.edu.
Is the University of Kentucky good for international students?
A: Yes, UK is internationally recognized and offers dedicated scholarships, advising, and support services for international students. Programs like the International Ambassador Scholarship and access to on-campus housing make it a welcoming option. The campus hosts students from over 100 countries.
Are there online or distance learning courses at UK?
A: Yes, the University of Kentucky offers a variety of online undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. These are accessible through UK Online and designed for flexibility while maintaining academic rigor. Some tuition rates for online courses are uniform, regardless of residency.
What is the average class size and faculty strength at UK?
A: UK maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of about 16:1, offering students access to experienced instructors and smaller class sizes in many programs. The university employs over 2,000 full-time faculty, many of whom are involved in research and industry collaborations.
