University of Kentucky vs Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Lexington, KY — Blacksburg, VA

Metric
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
Location Lexington, KY Blacksburg, VA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 24,763 30,923
Acceptance Rate 92.9% 54.8%
SAT Average 1,215 1,364
In-State Tuition $13,502 $15,948
Out-of-State Tuition $34,140 $37,764
Avg Net Price $18,851 $24,953
Median Debt at Graduation $22,500 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 70.7% 86.3%
Retention Rate 86.8% 93.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $47,266 $67,377
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,025 $81,698
Loan Repayment Rate 650500.0% 661700.0%

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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Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg, VA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Kentucky and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University 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. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Blacksburg, VA) has an acceptance rate of 54.8%, in-state tuition of $15,948, and median 10-year earnings of $81,698.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Kentucky or Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $81,698 vs $59,025. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Kentucky or Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Kentucky is the more affordable option at $18,851 per year versus $24,953.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 86.3% 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