Parents and Families
We’re in this together.
At the University of Kentucky, we’re here to be a partner as you navigate the college application and decision-making process. Ultimately, we want what you want – for your student to make a well-informed decision about where they should attend college.
We realize that in many cases, the college decision is not made by the student alone, but in conjunction with their family and/or a supportive network of mentors. We’re here to find a balance between giving your student the tools they need to act independently and take the lead on this important journey and providing you with information and resources to provide support to them each step of the way.
We’re here for you for the entire journey – from college exploration to application to selection and enrollment. If you have a question, and you cannot find the answer on this page, please contact your student’s recruiter (assigned by geographic territory) for further assistance.
Application for Fall 2026 First-Year Students Remains Open
Updated Thursday, May 14, 2026
The University of Kentucky is continuing to accept applications for first-time, first-year students for Fall 2026. Interested students are encouraged to complete the application for undergraduate admission as soon as possible using the UK or Common App. Students who apply by June 1 will automatically receive strongest consideration for any available scholarships.
Applications are still being accepted for transfer, readmit, non-degree and international students.
Confirmations Currently Being Accepted
Updated Thursday, May 14, 2026
The University of Kentucky is currently not on a waitlist and is continuing to accept confirmations for the UK Class of 2030. Students who have been admitted to UK but have not confirmed should register for Big Blue Nation Orientation at go.uky.edu/uk30. We encourage students to register for orientation and accept any scholarship awards as soon as possible. Big Blue Nation Orientations for first-year students begin on June 15, 2026. The deadline to apply for on-campus housing is June 1.
The confirmation deadline for transfer, readmit, non-degree and international students remain unchanged.
Deadline for students to accept their admission to UK by registering for their Big Blue Nation Orientation and paying the orientation fee and enrollment deposit. Scholarship offer acceptance deadline.
Living Learning Program application deadline.
Housing and Dining application deadline
Application for Undergraduate Admission Opens; students should visit applyuk.com to complete their application or use the Common App
Early Action applicants begin receiving admissions decisions. Housing application opens; students may apply for housing as soon as they have been admitted to UK.
Early Action application deadline (this includes competitive and academic scholarships and the Lewis Honors College)
Regular Decision application deadline.
Your Connection to Your Wildcat's Journey
Get connected to UK through the Cat Chat Family Community, your one-stop shop for important university communications. If your student provided your email address on their admissions application, you will automatically be added after they confirm their attendance. If not, you can sign up directly.
UK has a strong faculty core that supports 200+ academic programs spread across 16 degree-granting colleges, the Lewis Honors College, Graduate School and the UK Library system.
We inspire students to explore the many opportunities for involvement in UK’s community beyond the classroom and residence life experience.
Invested in infrastructure across campus, including a $256 million multidisciplinary research building and the continued expansion of a $1 billion health care facility started in 2004.
Fun Fact: UK is the only school in the SEC, BIG 10 and in the Commonwealth that has all modern residence halls complete with state-of-the-art technology and en suite bathrooms.
