Kentucky State University: 91.5% Acceptance Rate

91.5%Acceptance

$9,214Tuition

1,317Students

27%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$36,382Earnings

Public4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24HBCU

About Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University has been educating students in the state capital since 1886 as a historically black institution. The school serves 1,317 students in a town setting outside Lexington and Louisville. Known for strong agriculture and liberal arts programs, KSU maintains its HBCU mission while welcoming students from all backgrounds. The university accepts 91.5% of applicants, making it accessible to students with varying academic profiles.

The affordability story here is compelling for Kentucky families. Students from households earning under $30,000 pay just $6,809 net price annually after aid. Even middle-class families earning $48,000-$75,000 pay only $9,471 per year. Graduates typically leave with $25,938 in debt and earn a median $36,382 ten years after graduation. While the 27% six-year graduation rate indicates many students struggle to finish, those who complete their degrees find steady employment opportunities.

The campus reflects Kentucky State's diverse mission with 81% Black students alongside growing populations from other backgrounds. Nearly 60% of students are women, creating a supportive environment for female leadership. The Thorobreds compete in 14 NCAA Division II sports with over $1.1 million in athletic scholarships available. Students benefit from small classes with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio.

Academics & Faculty

Kentucky State University serves as a historically black public university with deep roots in agriculture and liberal arts education dating back to 1886. The 14:1 student-faculty ratio provides close mentorship opportunities in an intimate academic setting with just 1,317 students. Agriculture remains a flagship program, building on the university's land-grant heritage and research facilities. Liberal arts programs offer pathways in education, business, and social sciences. However, the 27% six-year graduation rate and 61% retention rate signal that many students face challenges completing their degrees. The university's agricultural extension work and community partnerships create hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom theory with real-world applications in Kentucky's rural communities.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Full-Time Faculty: 61.5%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 29.2%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 27.1%
Retention Rate: 60.8%
Median Earnings (10 years): $36,382
Carnegie Classification: Baccalaureate College

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Bachelor	$58,402
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Associate	$53,045
Business/Commerce, General.	Bachelor	$37,856
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods.	Bachelor	$32,925
Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services.	Bachelor	$31,133
Criminal Justice and Corrections.	Bachelor	$29,064
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities.	Bachelor	$28,019
Computer and Information Sciences, General.	Bachelor	$26,353
Biology, General.	Bachelor	$24,421
Journalism.	Bachelor	$22,578

View all 41 programs →

Campus Life

Kentucky State's 916-acre campus sits in Kentucky's capital city, about 25 miles from Lexington and 50 miles from Louisville. The rolling hills and historic brick buildings create a classic college atmosphere. Housing capacity reaches 1,171 students, though with total enrollment at 1,317, most students can live on campus if they choose. The small size means you'll recognize faces across the quad and professors remember your name.

Frankfort's four-season climate requires both winter coats for January snows and shorts for humid August move-ins. The Thorobreds compete in 14 NCAA Division II sports, and basketball games draw passionate crowds to the gymnasium. With 331 total athletes on campus, sports culture runs deep. Kentucky State maintains strong HBCU traditions including homecoming celebrations that bring alumni back to campus. Weekend activities often center around Frankfort's downtown area or trips to nearby Lexington for shopping and nightlife. The 14:1 student-faculty ratio means smaller class discussions and close mentoring relationships that extend beyond academics.

Setting: Town-Distant
Housing Capacity: 1,171 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1886

Campus Safety (2023)

6 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential	Noncampus	Public Property
Burglary	2	2	0	0
Rape	1	1	0	0

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 23°–41°F
July Avg: 65°–86°F
Annual Precipitation: 93.2"
Annual Snowfall: 0.0"

Student Demographics

Kentucky State draws students who need an affordable path to higher education, with over half receiving Pell Grants. The student body is 81% Black, reflecting KSU's mission as a historically Black university serving underrepresented communities. Women make up nearly 60% of enrollment, drawn to the school's strong liberal arts and education programs. Most students come from out of state, suggesting KSU attracts those seeking the HBCU experience and smaller class sizes. The 14:1 student-faculty ratio appeals to students who want personal attention from professors.

Men: 40.5%
Women: 59.5%
White: 8.1%
Black: 81.4%
Hispanic: 1.8%
Asian: 0.5%
In-State Students: 37.7%
Pell Grant Recipients: 56.5%

Location

Kentucky State University sits in Frankfort, the state capital of Kentucky. The campus lies about 25 miles west of Lexington and 50 miles east of Louisville, placing students within reach of two major metropolitan areas. Frankfort itself is a small government town with around 28,000 residents, where state politics and university life intersect. The Kentucky River winds through the city, and the rolling Bluegrass region stretches in all directions. With 37.68% of students coming from in-state, many are familiar with Kentucky's landscape of horse farms and bourbon distilleries. The town setting offers a quieter college experience compared to larger university cities. Students considering colleges in Kentucky may also compare Kentucky State University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Frankfort, Kentucky 40601-2355

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $36,382
Median Earnings (5 years): $46,010
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $25,600
Loan Repayment Rate: 23.5%
Monthly Loan Payment: $275/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $25,938

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Kentucky State University?

Kentucky State University accepts 91.5% of applicants, making it highly accessible to students seeking admission. The average SAT score is 881, reflecting the university's commitment to providing opportunities for students with diverse academic backgrounds. As a historically black public university, KSU focuses on supporting student success rather than exclusivity in admissions.

How much does Kentucky State University cost after financial aid?

Students at Kentucky State University pay an average net price of $8,900 per year after financial aid. Over 56% of students receive financial aid, and families earning under $30,000 pay just $6,809 annually. The university keeps costs manageable with in-state tuition at $9,214, supporting its mission as an accessible HBCU.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Kentucky State University?

Kentucky State University maintains a 14:1 student-faculty ratio across its 1,317 enrolled students. The university is known for its strong agriculture and liberal arts programs, providing personalized attention in smaller classroom settings. This ratio allows for meaningful mentorship opportunities that are central to the HBCU experience.

What are the graduation outcomes at Kentucky State University?

Kentucky State University has a 27% six-year graduation rate, with graduates earning a median salary of $36,382 ten years after graduation. The 94.6% employment rate shows that graduates find work in their fields. Students graduate with a median debt of $25,938, which is manageable given the university's focus on affordable education.

Where is Kentucky State University located and what is campus life like?

Kentucky State University sits in Frankfort, Kentucky's state capital, in a town-distant setting. The campus houses 1,171 students in residence halls, creating a close-knit community atmosphere. With 14 varsity sports teams competing as the Thorobreds and Thorobrettes in NCAA Division II, athletics play an important role in campus culture.

What makes Kentucky State University unique as an HBCU?

Kentucky State University serves a predominantly Black student body with 81.4% Black enrollment, maintaining its identity as a historically black university founded in 1886. The university attracts students from across the country, with only 37.7% from Kentucky. KSU's legacy centers on providing educational opportunities and fostering leadership within the African American community.