need a variety of clothes for both warm and cold weather. Events may occur around campus requiring semi-formal attire, so students should have clothes for both casual and dress-up situations.
Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 26circF (-3.3circC) to 86circF (30circC) and is rarely below 9circF (-12.8circC) or above 93circF (34circC). The average temperature in Frankfort is 41circF (about 5circC) in the winter and 71.3circF (about 22circC) in the summer. The hot season lasts for 3.8 months, from May 26 to September 21, with an average daily high temperature above 77circF (25circC). The hottest day of the year is July 21, with an average high of 86circF (30circC) and low of 68circF (20circC). The cold season lasts for 3.0 months, from November 30 to February 28, with an average daily high temperature below 51circF (11circC). The coldest day of the year is January 29, with an average low of 26circF (3.3circC) and high of 42circF (5.6circC).
Consider the climate of Kentucky when deciding what clothes to bring with you. Kentucky has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons; it is quite humid in the summer. Warm clothing for the winter could cost from U.S. $400–$600 if purchased new after you arrive. Used clothing can be purchased for much less. There is a wide temperature range for each season.
You should bring with you at least U.S. $1,000–$1,500, even if you will be receiving KSU funding. You will need this money to pay for temporary housing, moving-in expenses for long-term housing, food, transportation, books, supplies, and other necessary items during your first few weeks in the U.S. (Payments to graduate students on assistantships and visiting scholars begin about four to six weeks after arrival.):
Bring most of your money in traveler's checks that you can easily replace if they are lost or stolen. Obtaining traveler's checks may seem troublesome, but it is an important security measure. Traveler's checks can be replaced—cash cannot!
If you are bringing a bank check, have it made out to yourself—not the university—so that you can deposit the funds in a bank account here and then arrange for tuition and other payments. The University cannot accept checks greater than the amount of the first semester's tuition.
Bring some cash—U.S. $100–$200 in small bills ($10 and $20 bills) and several dollars in coins (especially "quarters," worth $0.25). Automatic teller machines (ATMs) frequently have a $300 per day limit on cash withdrawals.