Head-to-head · 2026
Kentucky State University vs University of Louisville
Compare average net price ($8,040 at Kentucky State University; $17,988 at University of Louisville), ROI score (11.31 vs 7.49), ten-year median earnings ($36,382 vs $53,899), and admissions selectivity (96.1% acceptance at Kentucky State University; 79.4% at University of Louisville) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Louisville has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Kentucky State University leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Kentucky State University | University of Louisville |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 11.31 ✓ | 7.49 |
| Avg net price | $8,040 ✓ | $17,988 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $36,382 | $53,899 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 96.1% | 79.4% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 31.9% | 61.2% ✓ |
| Median debt | $25,938 | $20,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,309 | 14,727 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 870 | 1150 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 2 | 5 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Louisville costs $9,948 more per year than Kentucky State University ($17,988 vs $8,040). University of Louisville graduates report $17,517 higher median earnings after ten years ($53,899 vs $36,382). On EduGradify's model that puts Kentucky State University ahead on projected ROI (11.31 vs 7.49, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Kentucky State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Kentucky State University is accessible at 96.1% acceptance versus 79.4% (accessible) at University of Louisville.
Frequently asked
Kentucky State University vs University of Louisville, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Kentucky State University or University of Louisville the better value?
Kentucky State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (11.31 vs 7.49), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Kentucky State University is cheaper — average net price $8,040 per year vs $17,988 at University of Louisville. The annual difference of $9,948 adds up to about $39,792 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Louisville reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $53,899 vs $36,382 at Kentucky State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $17,517.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Louisville is more selective at 79.4% acceptance vs 96.1% at Kentucky State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Kentucky State University reports a A value grade; University of Louisville reports B.