Head-to-head · 2026
University of Louisville vs Western Kentucky University
Compare average net price ($17,988 at University of Louisville; $10,990 at Western Kentucky University), ROI score (7.49 vs 9.98), ten-year median earnings ($53,899 vs $43,889), and admissions selectivity (79.4% acceptance at University of Louisville; 93.9% at Western Kentucky University) using federal College Scorecard data. University of Louisville has a 5-2 metric-level edge. Western Kentucky 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 | University of Louisville | Western Kentucky University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 7.49 | 9.98 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $17,988 | $10,990 ✓ |
| Median earnings (10y) | $53,899 ✓ | $43,889 |
| Acceptance rate | 79.4% ✓ | 93.9% |
| Graduation rate | 61.2% ✓ | 55.6% |
| Median debt | $20,500 ✓ | $22,095 |
| Enrollment | 14,727 | 12,155 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1150 ✓ | 971 |
| Metric advantages | 5 | 2 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Louisville costs $6,998 more per year than Western Kentucky University ($17,988 vs $10,990). University of Louisville graduates report $10,010 higher median earnings after ten years ($53,899 vs $43,889). On EduGradify's model that puts Western Kentucky University ahead on projected ROI (9.98 vs 7.49, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Western Kentucky University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, University of Louisville is accessible at 79.4% acceptance versus 93.9% (accessible) at Western Kentucky University.
Frequently asked
University of Louisville vs Western Kentucky University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is University of Louisville or Western Kentucky University the better value?
Western Kentucky University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (9.98 vs 7.49), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Western Kentucky University is cheaper — average net price $10,990 per year vs $17,988 at University of Louisville. The annual difference of $6,998 adds up to about $27,992 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Louisville reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $53,899 vs $43,889 at Western Kentucky University. The annual gap in the federal data is $10,010.
Which school is harder to get into?
University of Louisville is more selective at 79.4% acceptance vs 93.9% at Western Kentucky 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. University of Louisville reports a B value grade; Western Kentucky University reports B.