University of Kentucky vs University of Iowa

Lexington, KY — Iowa City, IA

Metric
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
Location Lexington, KY Iowa City, IA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 24,763 22,264
Acceptance Rate 92.9% 83.6%
SAT Average 1,215 1,200
In-State Tuition $13,502 $11,283
Out-of-State Tuition $34,140 $33,371
Avg Net Price $18,851 $22,531
Median Debt at Graduation $22,500 $22,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 70.7% 73.9%
Retention Rate 86.8% 90.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,266 $52,696
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,025 $64,762
Loan Repayment Rate 650500.0% 749800.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY
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University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Kentucky and University of Iowa compare?
University of Kentucky (Lexington, KY) has an acceptance rate of 92.9%, in-state tuition of $13,502, and median 10-year earnings of $59,025. University of Iowa (Iowa City, IA) has an acceptance rate of 83.6%, in-state tuition of $11,283, and median 10-year earnings of $64,762.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Kentucky or University of Iowa?
University of Iowa graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $64,762 vs $59,025. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Kentucky or University of Iowa?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Kentucky is the more affordable option at $18,851 per year versus $22,531.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Iowa has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 73.9% vs 70.7%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025