College Comparison
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville 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
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
School
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY
Head-to-Head Stats
| Metric | Tennessee | University of Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 46.0%wins | 92.4% |
| SAT Range (25th–75th) | 1190–1340wins | 1080–1290 |
| ACT Range (25th–75th) | 25–31wins | 21–28 |
| Tuition (Out-of-State) | $31,974wins | $33,406 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,109 | $17,218wins |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $60,249wins | $59,025 |
| Graduation Rate | 73.5%wins | 69.9% |
| Retention Rate | 91.1%wins | 86.7% |
| Student–Faculty Ratio | 18:1 | 17:1wins |
| Total Enrollment | 28,763wins | 23,189 |
Verdict
Based on the data above, Tennessee edges out University of Kentucky on 8 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.
Tennessee Strengths
- ✓Acceptance Rate: 46.0%
- ✓SAT Range (25th–75th): 1190–1340
- ✓ACT Range (25th–75th): 25–31
- ✓Tuition (Out-of-State): $31,974
University of Kentucky Strengths
- ✓Avg Net Price: $17,218
- ✓Student–Faculty Ratio: 17:1
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