What is the acceptance rate at Eastern Kentucky University?

Eastern Kentucky University has an acceptance rate of about 78%, based on the most recent federal data on FindU.

How much does Eastern Kentucky University cost?

The average net price at Eastern Kentucky University is about $9,962. That's what students actually pay per year after grants and scholarships. Published in-state tuition is $10,130.

What SAT or ACT scores do you need for Eastern Kentucky University?

Admitted students at Eastern Kentucky University typically have SAT scores between 930–1190 and ACT composite scores between 17–24 (the middle 50% of enrolled students).

How big is Eastern Kentucky University?

Eastern Kentucky University enrolls about 11,674 students.

What is the graduation rate at Eastern Kentucky University?

Eastern Kentucky University has a graduation rate of about 49%.

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Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, Kentucky · Public

Ranked #315 US News

$10k/yearCost after aid

May 31Application deadline

FindU Grade

Value

Campus

Academics

Admissions

Student Life

Overall

About

Eastern Kentucky University is located in Richmond, Kentucky. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 11,674 students.

eku.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value

$10kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$10,130

Out-of-state tuition$20,820

Room & board$11,735

Avg aid package$11,460

Students receiving aid39%

Pell grant recipients39%

Eastern Kentucky University strives to make quality education available to everyone with affordable tuition and low-cost textbooks for all students. EKU is launching a new scholarship model in Fall 2026, providing financial support valued between $1,000 and $9,000 for every in-state, on-campus, full-time freshman. The innovative BookSmart program provides free textbooks to all degree-seeking students, lowering the overall cost of attendance.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%930–1190

4001600

ACT · middle 50%17–24

136

Application info

Acceptance rate78%

Average GPA2.50

Student–faculty ratio15:1

Test optionalYes

Application fee$0

Application dates

Regular DecisionMay 31

Eastern Kentucky University has a 78% acceptance rate. EKU strives to make quality education available to everyone. The university offers more than 100 programs in various areas of study.

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Academics

Graduation rate49%

Retention rate80%

Student–faculty ratio15:1

Full-time faculty57%

Eastern Kentucky University offers a welcoming and helpful campus community where both staff and students are friendly and eager to assist. The university strives to ignite intellectual curiosity and foster a strong sense of community. Students appreciate the engaging faculty, with most professors being supportive and approachable, fostering a small college atmosphere within a larger university.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$45,795

Avg starting salary$50,000

Job placement rate95%

Earn more than HS grad67%

Economic mobility152%

Loan default (3 yr)8%

Loan repayment (3 yr)48%

EKU boasts the highest Kentucky employment rate one year after graduation among all the state’s public institutions. 77% of EKU graduates are employed full-time 6 months after graduation. Degree programs are aligned to fit workforce needs, with graduates stepping confidently into careers with purpose and passion.

Student life

Demographics

Large School

11,674Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio

Female 60%Male 40%

80% WhiteRacial diversity

White 80%Black 7%Hispanic 6%Asian 1%Other 7%

Campus housingYes

Eastern Kentucky University takes pride in providing an excellent educational experience for students from all walks of life. There is an abundance of student life experiences, with students sure to find their place at EKU. The campus community involves students in every aspect of university life, with numerous student organizations and events fostering a sense of belonging.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Senior

Eastern Kentucky University is a college that I am proud to say that I go to. Seeing new people being involved with different activities around campus and root for the home team has been a shock compared to my high school. It gives a feeling of community and a sense of belonging when you're on campus.

Freshman

What truly makes EKU feel like a home away from home is the way the campus community involves me in every aspect of university life. Professors are not just educators but mentors who invest in my academic journey. The numerous student organizations and events foster a sense of belonging, making me an active participant in shaping my university experience.

Freshman

I love Eastern Kentucky University, it is the perfect college for me. The moment I set foot on campus I knew I would call this place home. The community on campus is unmatched, the people here feel like family to me.

Freshman

The size of campus and my classes allow for good engagement in class, opportunity to network, and make new friends. Eastern Kentucky also has really interesting facilities from new buildings like Martin Hall, Case Kitchen, and the unbelievable Rec. Center, to historical buildings found around campus along with statues, landmarks, and our beautiful bell tower.

Student

I loved my teachers. Professor Maggie Frozena, my English 101 and 102 teacher, did so amazing! The work was actually fun to do and I retained so much that I learned. All the teachers were great so far. BigE the financial office at EKU, has been HORRIBLE!

Student

My experience at Eastern Kentucky University has been good. I liked the friendly atmosphere and how helpful the professors were. The campus feels welcoming, and there are plenty of activities and groups to join, which makes it easy to meet people.

About Eastern Kentucky University

The campus is described as a safe environment. Eastern Kentucky University is located in Richmond, Kentucky.

EKU Honors provides an enriched and accessible liberal arts college educational experience within the context of our large comprehensive university. The program supports student travel and study abroad experiences as well as small seminar-style honors classes and an active residential Honors Living and Learning Community (LLC). Undergraduate students from every major on campus are welcome in EKU Honors.

International students are welcome to apply for enrollment at EKU. The university has students from 45 countries represented at the school.

Endowment$87,926,494

Avg faculty salary$91,752

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