College Comparison
University of South Carolina-Columbia 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
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
School
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | South Carolina | University of Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 61.5%wins | 92.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1180–1380wins | 1080–1290 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 26–32wins | 21–28 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $34,934 | $33,406wins |
| Avg Net Price | $24,532 | $17,218wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $62,177wins | $59,025 |
| Graduation Rate | 77.8%wins | 69.9% |
| Retention Rate | 90.7%wins | 86.7% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 18:1 | 17:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 28,113wins | 23,189 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, South Carolina 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.
South Carolina Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 61.5%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1180–1380
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 26–32
- ✓Median Earnings (10 yr): $62,177
University of Kentucky Strengths
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $33,406
- ✓Avg Net Price: $17,218
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 17:1
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