Discover What's Possible.
Discover What's Possible.
Why Choose the
University of Kentucky?
38,719
Total Students Enrolled
100+
Countries represented by students
16:1
Student to faculty ratio
25%
UK graduates earn 25% more than the national average ten years after enrolling
“I love being a UK student because of all the resources that the university has to offer. Here, you can find so many resources for international students— and actually, almost all my friends are international students. We are like a big family and we support each other.”
Mariana Escobedo De La Pena | Guatemala
Gender & Womens Studies and Sociology
The moment you arrive at the Lexington Airport, you will experience warm Southern hospitality – from airport pick-up to International Student Orientation and K week, which will prepare you for life as a Wildcat!
K Week is a week of fun events that celebrate every new University of Kentucky student. With free t-shirts and food at almost every event, the hard decision is picking what to do next!
Academics
200+
Academic programs spread across 16 degree-granting colleges
28
programs ranked in the top 10 over the US in the last several years
50
programs ranked in the top 50 in the US over the last several years
68%
of UK graduates indicated that they participated in one or more internships, co-ops or related field experiences
An education at the University of Kentucky equips you with a rich curriculum of hands-on learning, knowledge and insights to be competitive in your discipline of choice. With over 200 academic programs across 17 colleges, you’re sure to find a major that fuels your passion and ambition.
Find Your Program HereScholarships
More than $146 Million Awarded to Students Annually
The University of Kentucky offers multiple scholarships to eligible international students. All scholarships can be combined and are renewable.
Bluegrass Spirit Academic Scholarship
$5,000
3.0 GPA
$8,000
3.0 GPA & 1200 SAT or 3.5 GPA
$10,000
3.5 GPA & 1200 SAT or 3.6 GPA
$12,500
3.5 GPA & 1360 SAT or 3.8 GPA
Deadline: December 1
W.C. Parker Scholarship
$5,000-$15,000 per year
Minimum GPA 2.5
Priority Deadline: December 1
International Ambassador Scholarship
$3,000-50% of tuition
Minimum GPA 2.5 + supplementary materials
Priority Deadline : February 15
Departmental Scholarships
Deadlines, amounts and requirements vary by department
More on Departmental Scholarships Here
Get the details on scholarships
and more information on how to apply!
Housing
Your University of Kentucky experience doesn’t end when class lets you out for the day.
Campus Housing offers students 21 unique residence halls across three neighborhoods. Each residence hall is equipped with study areas, kitchens, laundry and vending spaces, and recreational rooms. With large couches and big screen TVs in every lobby, you’re sure to feel right at home.
The University of Kentucky has finished a $460 million housing project, opening brand new residence halls that offer state-of-the-art, high-tech living, learning and research spaces to propel the work of students, faculty and staff. With a $201 million Student Center opening in 2018, students will be better equipped than ever before.
Take A Virtual Tour!
Student Life
As a University of Kentucky student, you’ll find a rich community of sports, clubs and activities outside of the classroom buildings.
The Johnson Center offers facilities available for basketball, weight training and conditioning, group fitness classes, climbing, volleyball, badminton, jogging, racquetball, and wallyball.
The Lancaster Aquatic Center contains lightning fast competition swimming courses and world class diving facilities.
UK also offers several outdoor recreation areas for basketball, tennis, baseball, soccer, and many other outdoor activities. Many students join intramural teams and compete in sports such as flag football and badminton.
With over 550 clubs and student organizations to choose from, you’re sure to find some common ground with your fellow Wildcats.
Lexington
From the bustling downtown streets to the rolling hills of world-class horse farms, Lexington is a city like no other. A vibrant college town, Lexington is home to metropolitan luxuries and the warm, welcoming feel of a small town.
#4 Best cities in the United States-Condé Nast Traveler (2025)
#15 Top Safest Cities in the US- Forbes (2025)
#15 Top Places to Live-
U.S. News & World Report (2025)
Kentucky
Known as the “Bluegrass State,” Kentucky combines scenic beauty with traditions in horse racing, bourbon, and music. From lively cities like Louisville and Lexington to natural wonders such as the Appalachian Mountains and Mammoth Cave, Kentucky is rich in culture, history, and warm hospitality.
More at kentuckytourism.com
“Coming to UK is the greatest thing that I could have ever hoped to happen to me. The people I met here and the memories I’ve made will be cherished forever."
Sarah Fahmy | Egypt
Ask a Wildcat
Read personal experiences and get answers to your questions about international student life at UK!
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