2024 Best Value Colleges in Kentucky

• Berea, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.24 out of 5  482 reviews

Sophomore: Berea College is an inviting environment. The campus is pretty quaint compared to larger campuses. They have shuttles which are helpful, especially if students do not have other modes of transportation to a supermarket. A couple of changes can be made when it comes to certain policies, but overall, it has been a pleasant experience.... Read 482 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $3,354

• SAT range 1080-1280

• Crestview Hills, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  239 reviews

Senior: This school is a truly transformative experience! It's affiliated with the Roman Catholic church, but the student body and amazing faculty are very diverse and stimulating. Everything about the culture of this school serves the spirit of the liberal arts tradition, and it shows. What makes it really great is how small and locally-grounded it is. TMU has a great reputation for quality education regionally, and the institutional ties to the community are very strong. The community on campus is thriving and intimate (2K-2.5K Student Pop.) with a lot of very different groups and involvements. I'm proud to be graduating from TMU and would recommend it to any student wanting a strong education. This goes doubly for the science majors, who will get hard-to-find relationships with faculty and copious opportunities for research opportunities (e.g. the fantastic Biological Field Station right on the Ohio River sponsors students in freshwater ecology research and education projects).... Read 239 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $19,819

• SAT range 1010-1140

• Danville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  367 reviews

Junior: I have attended Centre College since August of 2021. I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience, as I find Centre to be a college that genuinely cares about its students. We have a great study abroad program with several country options, as well as a 3-week course in January and May called "Centre Terms" that allow students to go abroad for a short time when they don't want/have no time to study abroad for a semester. The faculty and staff are very friendly and helpful, especially our premier scholarship departments are helpful to students who aren't recipients of the scholarships. I am fortunate enough to have earned a first-generation premier scholarship, but I often seek council from a faculty member over a different scholarship program. Because of his helpfulness, he has helped me earn a competitive summer internship, as he trained me for interviews and heavily revised my essays. The professors at Centre are also helpful and always willing to meet outside of class to help students.... Read 367 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $22,470

• SAT range 1190-1430

• Highland Heights, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,949 reviews

Sophomore: I couldn't wait to share my experience with everyone! I was amazed by the excellent communication and thoughtful attention to every last detail from beginning to end. The staff went above and beyond to make me feel appreciated as a student and welcomed. With calming music playing in the background and a tastefully designed room, the ambiance was welcoming. My expectations were significantly exceeded by the quality of the goods or services provided; it was obvious that only the best components were put to use. The addition of additional diversity to their goods is the one item, though, that I would most like to see changed. Don't get me wrong, they offer excellent service as it is, but I think adding more items to their repertoire could appeal to a larger audience.... Read 1,949 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $7,443

• SAT range 960-1210

• Owensboro, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  161 reviews

Junior: I love BU! There is a great school of business, with fantastic professors. The business school is also in the newest building on campus. The Field center has plenty of technology, comfortable study spaces, and access to vending. What more can a commuter asked for? The small class size is great for a more personalized learning experience. You really get to build a relationship with your professors especially the one in your field. They get to know you and how you work best, make the learning process efficient. Brescia University is located in downtown Owensboro (KY), that makes it easy to be part of the community both personal land professionally! There is Fridays after Five down by the river. The only difficulty thing is getting those prime parking spots, but that’s true for any college. Brescia also has great connections with the local businesses community. Those connections provide countless opportunities for students to expand networking and gain internship and job opportunities.... Read 161 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 54%

• Net price $13,796

• SAT range 920-1190

• Louisville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  703 reviews

Sophomore: Bellarmine is overall a wonderful university! It is a somewhat challenging school, but I feel that can be any college. It really helps you out of your comfort zone. Going into my freshman year I was extremely nervous to do anything or even socialize, but I am now a team member in the freshman week of welcome! It’s a very accepting school and has so many resources to get you comfortable and help you with anything you need. Everyone makes you feel apart of the Bellarmine community which is why I think it’s such a great school.... Read 703 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $23,784

• SAT range 1110-1280

• Lexington, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  305 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience with Transylvania University has been exceptional and has truly shaped my professional development. As an alumna, I can confidently say that this institution goes above and beyond to provide a holistic education that fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and leadership abilities. The faculty members are not only experts in their respective fields but also dedicated mentors who genuinely care about their students' success. The small class sizes allowed for personalized attention and meaningful interactions with professors, enabling me to delve deep into course material and engage in thought-provoking discussions.... Read 305 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 92%

• Net price $26,271

• SAT range 1050-1330

• Frankfort, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.24 out of 5  344 reviews

Alum: I was enrolled here majoring in Criminal Justice. My experience here was great! The staff, students, and wonderful people I've met here helped me prepare for the real world after college. This school being the only HBCU in Kentucky, makes me feel proud to be an Alum of the Kstate community.... Read 344 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $7,492

• SAT range 860-1050

• Louisville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  214 reviews

Freshman: The teachers are very personable and help in every way to facilitate a better learning experience. The class are scheduled with great flexibility allowing me to still work around classes.The resources available with additional tutoring and being able to access your books online for free has really helped financially. I am about to start my third quarter with clinical component and I feel prepared. This is my second attempt at nursing school I tried 20 years ago and was unsuccessful. This time I am more prepared and Galen student success team are there to encourage me and provide resources for me to ensure successful completion of ADN in nursing. I am so thankful I choose this college for my nursing completion!... Read 214 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,144

• SAT range —

• Murray, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  1,352 reviews

Junior: I really love Murray State University! For the most part the professors and TA’s are really great. I have met lifetime friends there and can’t wait to come back in this upcoming fall! The only thing I would like to see Change is that I dislike that the online classes are so expensive compared to in person classes, and most of the online ones are not even full semesters. Most of my major is online, which is making me pay good chunk more than of my classes were all offered in person.... Read 1,352 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $11,237

• SAT range 960-1200

• Louisville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  2,359 reviews

Freshman: My overall experience at University of Louisville has been great! I did the Early Arrive Program and it was good, it gave me time to prepare and walk campus without it being so crowded before welcome week. And I got to meet tons of people! There was so many activities and some even prepared me for classes. There’s so many resources around campus and that alone just shows that University of Louisville wants us to succeed.... Read 2,359 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $18,582

• SAT range 1050-1270

• Lexington, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  3,961 reviews

Junior: I just transferred to the University of Kentucky this past week, and it has been nothing but amazing. I came from a university that genuinely does not have their students best interest at heart. The second I stepped onto campus in Kentucky it has been nothing but love radiated from everyone, from the students, to the staff and faculty, and everyone I have had the pleasure of meeting. You can tell that these people are actually happy and enjoy what they are doing. I was very nervous walking into orientation and meeting my advisor because I struggled a lot with my academics at my last institution. But my advisor was nothing but understanding, patient, and helpful. It has meant the world to be to somewhere where I not only feel comfortable but it already feels like home, and I can't wait for my time at the University of Kentucky!... Read 3,961 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $20,043

• SAT range 1080-1330

• Williamsburg, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  449 reviews

Sophomore: The professors at Cumberlands are constantly challenging your skills to help prepare you for the real world. You can tell they care about you and your future. The Christian culture is also very evident and there are many ways to get involved on campus. Not to mention, the architecture of the school is beautiful and the new library has easily become one of my favorite spots to study!... Read 449 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $13,631

• SAT range 940-1200

• Louisville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  336 reviews

Freshman: Spalding is a small college in downtown Louisville, KY. I love the location and the options the city gives. Class scheduling is one of the reasons that I chose Spalding. They do block scheduling...you only have 2 classes at one time and you have those classes for 6 weeks. Then, you have a week break. Then, pick up two new classes for 6 weeks and so on. No cramming for finals...finals are the 2 classes at the end of the 6 weeks! Class size is small because it's a small school. Oh, and you have Fridays off! It's been a really good fit for me.... Read 336 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $24,822

• SAT range 930-1100

• Pikeville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  186 reviews

Sophomore: Upike has given me the opportunity to stay close to home while still being able to achieve my academic goals and help benefit the people living in this area as well. With their amazing nursing building and educators, me and my classmates are able to become confident in our skills and team working abilities.... Read 186 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,987

• SAT range —

• Bowling Green, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  2,246 reviews

Sophomore: Western Kentucky is a great school to be involved and make life long friends, but it also has its downs. There are minimal food options and the living conditions could improve a little. The classes are really good at making you understand well, though. Our mascot is a little wonky looking but don’t let that fool you! We love our sports! Overall I would rate this school a 7.5/10. It’s very beautiful here.... Read 2,246 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $12,395

• SAT range 980-1180

• Morehead, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  1,097 reviews

Alum: Besides their beautiful campus, the social environment is warm and inviting. It doesn't take too long to find your group on campus; whether by going Greek, getting into the year-round intramural teams, or even joining our lightsaber club (yes, it's a thing). You can find your home anywhere on campus. As for the courses, they are unique and the professors genuinely care about your mental, physical, and educational self. They want you to do well and are always there to help you!... Read 1,097 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $10,471

• SAT range 950-1220

• Midway, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  225 reviews

Sophomore: Midway University offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Some notable programs include equine studies, nursing, business, education, and healthcare administration. The university's small size creates a close-knit community where students often have personalized attention from professors. Regarding campus life, Midway University provides various student organizations and clubs for students to get involved in, helping them connect with peers who share similar interests. The campus offers facilities like a fitness center, library, and recreational spaces to promote a balanced student experience. Social events, workshops, and lectures are often organized to engage students beyond their academic pursuits.... Read 225 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $22,825

• SAT range 940-1120

• Georgetown, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  329 reviews

Freshman: Georgetown is great! The staff and professors are extremely helpful. The classes are interesting but there is a limited number available for the School of Continuing Studies.... Read 329 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 75%

• Net price $15,028

• SAT range 1040-1280

• Barbourville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  142 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Union College is amazing. I am a freshman that just newly finished my first semester with all A’s. The campus life and teachers are phenomenal. Union college always has activities to get all students involved. And the teachers are amazing they make sure you attain your education while being persistent with the individual about their grades. Union college overall is a great place to further people’s education and makes college a great learning experience for every individual. There is nothing I would change about Union, it has definitely changed my life for the greater good I have met so many diversities of people I will never forget in a lifetime!... Read 142 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $15,690

• SAT range 940-1120

• Richmond, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.61 out of 5  1,671 reviews

Sophomore: There are many aspects of Eastern Kentucky Universitythat I like. EKU is very welcoming and encourages students to step out of their comfort zone. The professors care about the students and communicate well. The ratio between students and teachers is low, so a student can get some one-on-one time with the professor. They also offer tutoring in all subjects. The tutors are very helpful and are available seven days a week. The dining hall has good food and plenty of space to sit and enjoy a meal with your friends. The Rec Center is new and has a weight room, basketball courts, a swimming pool, e-sports lounge, a walking track, and a rock climbing wall. I really enjoy the Rec Center and I enjoy renting tents an kayaks. I enjoy the grounds of EKU, there are ample places that you can study or focus on your mental health. The library is another place I like because everyone is extremely helpful. While some of the dormitories are very nice, others need to be renovated. EKU is a great place!... Read 1,671 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 98%

• Net price $14,271

• SAT range 950-1180

• Grayson, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.39 out of 5  159 reviews

Senior: I love the values of the school because they focus on building people, and not just workers. "Christ, Character, and Career," is our motto, and every professor holds to these values as they are important for the environment of our school. The professors and staff focus on relationships and connection, and you can see this when professors will sit and eat lunch with the students and have valuable conversations. The small community is an amazing opportunity to create personal relationships with many of your peers: both classmates and professors. The calm environment creates a place of peace for the students, which is essential for success.... Read 159 reviews

• grade C

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $23,027

• SAT range 800-1030

• Wilmore, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  475 reviews

Junior: For school, I’m in the education department and the professors are amazing! I know some people would say that other colleges have great professors, but truly, Asbury seeks out the best. I have become close with my educators and the love they show me everyday is unmatched. I am also an athlete and my coach is wonderful. They are kind, patient, and honest. Asbury staff lead students with the most integrity. Asbury staff also leads all students closer to the Lord. Putting God first everyday is what our professors & other staff members encourage us to seek first everyday. I transferred into Asbury because of the Christian environment that it holds. You can find so many ways to get plugged in and stay busy- you never feel alone. Asbury is a very inclusive campus! I have found true friends that I will have for the rest of my life and hold good memories that I will cherish. I’ve never met so many people who have so much passion for the Lord. God answered my prayers by bringing me to Asbury!... Read 475 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $23,604

• SAT range 1080-1320

• Columbia, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  356 reviews

Senior: I’m about to be a senior here at Lindsey Wilson college, this campus is small but provides a close and family like environment for higher education. I have enjoyed my time here at Lindsey Wilson college because of the professors and the close friends I have made while I was here but also getting to play a sport at a collegiate level. I would choose this college everytime!... Read 356 reviews

• grade C

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $16,316

• SAT range —

• Campbellsville, KY•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  516 reviews

Junior: The fact that both my instructors and the other students at the institution in Campbellsville are always so kind and friendly makes attending to class a delight for me, and I get the sense that everyone there is rooting for your academic success, which is motivating in and of itself. They have already moved the timing from 530 to 9:00, which is the alteration that I would make to the schedule. Although I am excited to leave Campbellsville, I will miss the fact that it is a faith-based institution. I also like that it's only two days a week since it allows me to continue working and taking care of my family while simultaneously completing my schoolwork.... Read 516 reviews

• grade C+

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,074

• SAT range —