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University of Kentucky vs University of Louisville

ABSN programs compared — side-by-side on NCLEX pass rates, tuition, admissions, and format.

Updated Reviewed by NurseWay Editorial Team

At a glance

Higher NCLEX pass rate
University of Kentucky
91% vs 88.9%
Lower tuition
University of Louisville
$12,828 vs $17,616
Easier to get into
University of Kentucky
92.4% vs 80.5% acceptance

Side-by-side details

Best value in each row is highlighted.

University of Kentucky
Accelerated BSN
University of Louisville
Accelerated BSN
Program typeABSNABSN
Formatin personin person
LocationLexington, KYLouisville, KY
Length16 months16 months
NCLEX pass rate91%BEST88.9%
Acceptance rate92.4%BEST80.5%
Avg accepted GPA3.4
Min GPA
Entrance examTEAS
Total tuition$17,616$12,828 in / $29,174 outBEST
In-state tuition$13,212$12,828BEST
Out-of-state tuition$33,406$29,174BEST
Clinical placementarranged
AccreditationCCNECCNE

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has a higher NCLEX pass rate, University of Kentucky or University of Louisville?

University of Kentucky's ABSN program has the higher first-attempt NCLEX pass rate at 91%, compared to 88.9% for the other program. NCLEX pass rates are the single best signal of how well a program prepares students for licensure.

Which is cheaper, University of Kentucky or University of Louisville?

University of Louisville is the more affordable option at roughly $12,828, compared to $17,616. Factor in residency status, financial aid, and program length when deciding — total cost matters more than annual tuition.

Are University of Kentucky and University of Louisville the same type of program?

Both are ABSN programs, so they award the same credential. Compare them on NCLEX pass rate, tuition, length, and location to find the better fit.

How do I decide between University of Kentucky and University of Louisville?

Start by ruling out programs you can't get into (compare your GPA against each school's admissions stats), then weight what matters most — NCLEX pass rate for quality, total tuition for cost, length for time-to-degree, and format (online, hybrid, in-person) for lifestyle. Use NurseWay's free intake to get a personalized fit score for both.

Want a personalized fit score?

Take the free 3-minute intake and we'll rank both programs against your GPA, location preferences, and budget.