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College Comparison

Ohio State University vs University of Kentucky: Which is Better?

Side-by-side comparison of acceptance rates, SAT scores, tuition, earnings, and more, updated with the latest College Scorecard data.

School

Ohio State University

Columbus, OH

School

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY

Head-to-Head Stats

MetricOhio StateUniversity of Kentucky
Acceptance Rate50.8%wins92.4%
SAT Range (25th–75th)1330–1480wins1080–1290
ACT Range (25th–75th)29–32wins21–28
Tuition (Out-of-State)$38,365$33,406wins
Avg Net Price$18,292$17,218wins
Median Earnings (10 yr)$60,409wins$59,025
Graduation Rate87.7%wins69.9%
Retention Rate94.1%wins86.7%
Student–Faculty Ratio18:117:1wins
Total Enrollment44,617wins23,189

Verdict

Based on the data above, Ohio State edges out University of Kentucky on 7 of 10 measurable categories, including key factors like acceptance rate, earnings, and graduation rate. That said, the right choice depends heavily on your major, financial situation, and campus culture fit.

Ohio State Strengths

  • Acceptance Rate: 50.8%
  • SAT Range (25th–75th): 1330–1480
  • ACT Range (25th–75th): 29–32
  • Median Earnings (10 yr): $60,409

University of Kentucky Strengths

  • Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,406
  • Avg Net Price: $17,218
  • Student–Faculty Ratio: 17:1

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