University of Kentucky Countdown to Kentucky

Countdown to Kentucky #UK2030's Official Source for all Things UK

Welcome to Countdown to Kentucky (C2KY), your official guide to becoming a Kentucky Wildcat.

Over the next few months, you’ll receive this e-newsletter filled with everything you need to know before arriving on the University of Kentucky campus this fall. From move-in and housing reminders to campus traditions, Lexington favorites, student tips and important deadlines, C2KY is designed to help you feel more prepared, confident and excited for your first year at UK!

When it comes to important dates, deadlines, requirements and next steps, always rely on Countdown to Kentucky, official UK emails and UK websites or UK-owned social media channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Think of C2KY as your summer roadmap to joining the Big Blue Nation.

Big Blue Move-In Checklist

Activate Your WildCard ID

The WildCard Mobile ID is your “key” to campus.

Students living in campus housing will use their WildCard Mobile ID to access residence halls and individual rooms. Failure to activate your WildCard ID before move-in may impact your ability to access your building when you arrive.

ACTIVATE YOUR MOBILE ID

Schedule Your Move-In Appointment

Beginning June 15, log in to myUK to select your 30-minute move-in appointment.

These staggered arrival times help keep traffic moving and make Big Blue Move-In as smooth as possible for everyone.

You’ll only see dates and times that apply to you based on your residence hall assignment and any affiliated groups, such as Living Learning Programs, athletics, Wildcat Marching Band or other special populations.

SCHEDULE MOVE-IN APPOINTMENT

Submit Proof of Meningitis Vaccination

The University of Kentucky requires all students living in campus housing to receive at least one dose of the quadrivalent (ACWY) or pentavalent (ABCWY) meningococcal vaccine on or after their 16th birthday.

Submit your vaccination record at go.uky.edu/SelfReport.

Questions? Visit the vaccination requirements website or email immunizations@uky.edu.

SUBMIT VACCINATION RECORD

5 Fun Things to Do in Lexington

1. Horse Culture

Welcome to the Horse Capital of the World!

Lexington is home to rolling green pastures, world-famous horse farms (yes, you can tour them!), the Kentucky Horse Park and Keeneland, a historic racetrack that opens to the public each spring and fall. Even if you're not into racing, the vibes, fashion, tailgating and food scene make it worth the trip.

2. Sporting Events

Catch a game and cheer like a local!

In addition to 23 UK varsity sports including baseball, softball and of course men’s and women’s basketball. You can also head to Legends Field, home of the Lexington Legends, a minor league baseball team just minutes from campus. Additionally, Lexington is home to the Lexington Sporting Club, an American professional soccer club.

3. Farmers Market Fun

Support local and snack your way through The Lexington Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning at Tandy Park (just off Main Street downtown). From fresh produce and flowers to local honey and handmade crafts, it’s a favorite weekend tradition for students and locals alike.

4. Outdoor Adventures

Get outside and explore! Lexington offers gorgeous green spaces like the Legacy Trail (a 12-mile bike/walk path), The Arboretum (UK’s own botanical garden), and Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, where hiking trails lead you to scenic views of the Kentucky River.

5. Downtown Excitement

There's always something happening in downtown Lexington! Don't miss Thursday Night Live at the Pavilion for live music, food trucks and good vibes every Thursday evening during warmer months. Add in coffee shops, rooftop dining, local boutiques and street art, and you’ve got a downtown that’s easy to love and even easier to explore.

Getting Around Campus - UK Transportation Services

Bringing a car to campus? It's up to you. Many first-time, first-year students choose not to, thanks to UK's convenient transportation options.

If you do bring a car, you’ll need to purchase a valid UK parking permit, which must be displayed at all times. Permits are available online, in person or by phone through UK Transportation Services. Check here for detailed information on permit types, prices, and sale dates.

Permit Basics:

• On-campus residents: you may be eligible for R (residential), RK (residential periphery) or X (remote) permits. R permits depend on your UK Campus Housing assignment. RK and X permits are available to all residential students, regardless of the location of your residence hall.

• Off-campus students with less than 60 credits hours are eligible for CK (commuter periphery) permits.

No car? No problem.

UK offers free campus buses - no ID required, just hop aboard! Plus, we’re a Gold Level Bicycle Friendly University with an on-campus bike shop, Wildcat Wheels.

Questions? Call 859-257-5757 or email Transportation Services. Visit transportation.uky.edu to sign up for the department’s e-news list and stay updated on X @UKParking and on Instagram.

Find Your Community

Explore Fraternity and Sorority Life

College is about more than classes. It’s about finding the people who challenge you, support you and make UK feel like home.

For many students, Fraternity and Sorority life provides opportunities for leadership, service, academic success and lifelong friendships.

Students can explore organizations within:

Panhellenic Council
Interfraternity Council
National Pan-Hellenic Council
United Greek Council

Each council offers unique experiences, different recruitment processes and opportunities to connect with other Wildcats.

Keep an eye on your mailbox. Guides with more details about each chapter are on the way to help you explore your options and find what fits you best.

EXPLORE FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LIFE

REGISTER FOR PANHELLENIC PRIMARY RECRUITMENT

UK Invests for Students - Coming Soon

Learn, Earn and Invest

Soon, you’ll receive information and learn about one of the most innovative student programs at UK. UK Invests for Students help Wildcats build financial confidence while earning real money for their future through activites that support academic success, involvement, wellness and personal growth. The best part? Your opportunities to learn and earn continue throughout your academic career at UK.

Watch for more details soon.

Countdown to Kentucky is a collaborative effort to foster student success.

Student Success | studentsuccess.uky.edu
Undergraduate Recruitment | recruitment@uky.edu
Big Blue Nation Orientation | orientation@uky.edu
Campus Housing | ukhousing@uky.edu

Email	admissions@uky.edu
Phone	859-257-2000
Fax	859-257-3823