Admission to the University of Kentucky
Selective Admission
The University of Kentucky subscribes to a selective admission policy. The academic criteria are established by a faculty committee of the University Senate. The admission decision is based on factors, including cumulative high school grade-point average, completion of the pre-college curriculum, ACT or SAT I score results, and special talents and abilities.
Enrollment in the freshman class is limited. The University of Kentucky receives many more freshman applications than can be accommodated. Applicants are offered admission on a competitive basis, with those meeting the University's selective admission criteria receiving first offers. Remaining spaces in the class will be offered based on the strength of the student's record, potential for academic success and the University's enrollment goals.
Freshman Admission
To be eligible for consideration, students must complete high school and meet Kentucky's pre-college curriculum requirement. High school preparation is critically important to a student's potential to succeed at UK, and it is given significant consideration in the decision-making process. Total number of academic courses completed in high school, level of course work, number of Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, and senior year schedule can be important factors in admission decisions. The requirements listed below are only minimum requirements. Most UK applicants will have taken course work that exceeds these minimums.
Advanced Standing
UK encourages you to pursue the highest level of scholastic course work available through your high school. UK participates in the Advanced Placement (AP) Program offered through the College Board. Course credit is awarded for scores of 3 or better attained on any AP exam.
The University of Kentucky recognizes course credit earned through the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program offered by high schools throughout the world. Generally, course credit is awarded for scores of 5, 6, or 7 on either the Standard Level exam or the Higher Level exam.
For more information about IB credit, contact the College of Arts & Sciences Advising Center at (859) 257-8712.