University of Kansas
Lawrence, United States
University of Kansas
Lawrence, United States
Founded
1865
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
31,000+
Acceptance Rate
88%
Discover the University of Kansas: A Leading Public Research Institution
Discover the University of Kansas: A Leading Public Research Institution
The University of Kansas (KU) is a public research university with its main campus in Lawrence, Kansas. Founded on March 21, 1865, KU is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) and is classified among R1: Doctoral Universities with very high research activity.
KU's main campus spans approximately 1,000 acres atop Mount Oread, a scenic hilltop that was donated by Charles L. Robinson, the first governor of Kansas. The university operates additional branch campuses including the KU Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, and the Edwards Campus in Overland Park, with educational sites across the state.
With over 345 degree programs spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering, KU offers one of the most comprehensive academic experiences in the Midwest. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in pharmacy, special education, public administration, and its School of Business, which holds AACSB accreditation.
Key Milestones
- 1865: University of Kansas officially founded; Board of Regents held its first meeting on March 21
- 1866: KU opened its doors to 55 students, becoming one of the earliest U.S. public institutions to admit women and men equally
- 1909: KU joined the Association of American Universities, cementing its status among leading research institutions
- 2022: Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball won their fourth NCAA national championship, defeating North Carolina
Academic Schools and Colleges at the University of Kansas
Academic Schools and Colleges at the University of Kansas
The University of Kansas offers a broad and rigorous academic experience through its multiple schools and colleges. With 142 bachelor's, 122 master's, and 93 doctoral and professional degree programs, KU provides outstanding opportunities across virtually every academic discipline.
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
The largest academic unit at KU, offering a wide range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics. It serves as the intellectual core of the university.
- Psychology
- Biology
- English
School of Engineering
Officially founded in 1891, the School of Engineering offers programs in aerospace, civil, chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering, with strong ties to industry partners.
- Aerospace Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science
School of Business
Founded in 1924 and AACSB-accredited, the School of Business enrolls approximately 4,600 students and offers highly regarded undergraduate and graduate programs including a competitive MBA.
- Finance
- Marketing
- Accounting
School of Education & Human Sciences
Nationally ranked for its education programs, this school prepares future teachers, counselors, and health professionals. Its special education program is consistently among the top in the nation.
- Special Education
- Educational Psychology
- Health, Sport & Exercise Sciences
School of Pharmacy
One of the top pharmacy schools in the United States, offering the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree along with graduate research programs in pharmaceutical chemistry and pharmacology.
- Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Pharmacology & Toxicology
School of Architecture & Design
Offering programs in architecture, interior architecture, and design, this school combines creative practice with technical expertise. The design department traces its origins to 1921.
- Architecture
- Interior Architecture
- Industrial Design
Admission Requirements for the University of Kansas
Admission Requirements for the University of Kansas
Undergraduate Admission
- High School GPA3.25 or higher on a 4.0 scale for assured admission
- Standardized TestsTest-optional; ACT 21+ or SAT 1060+ considered if submitted
- Application FeeUSD 40
- English ProficiencyTOEFL 79+ or IELTS required for international students
- Application PlatformCommon Application or KU Online Application
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRequired from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program)
- Standardized TestsGRE/GMAT required for some programs
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo required for international applicants
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose
Priority application deadline for maximum scholarship consideration and competitive programs
Final deadline for consideration for select programs including Design and Architecture
KU accepts applications on a rolling basis for the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Deadlines vary by graduate program; check with individual departments for specific dates
Tuition, Fees & Scholarship Opportunities at KU
Tuition, Fees & Scholarship Opportunities at KU
The University of Kansas offers competitive tuition rates, particularly for in-state students. Over 76% of enrolled undergraduates receive grants or scholarships, making KU an accessible option for students from diverse financial backgrounds.
| Cost Category | Kansas Resident | Non-Resident / International |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 11,298 | USD 30,177 |
| Housing & Meals | USD 11,798 | USD 11,798 |
| Books & Supplies | USD 1,224 | USD 1,224 |
| Transportation & Personal | USD 4,176 | USD 4,176 |
| Total | USD 28,496 | USD 47,375 |
KU Automatic Scholarships
KU offers merit-based automatic scholarships to admitted students based on GPA and test scores. These renewable awards help offset tuition costs for both resident and non-resident students.
- Eligibility: Based on GPA and optional ACT/SAT scores
- Award Range: Varies; contact KU Financial Aid for current amounts
- Renewable: Yes, with satisfactory academic progress
Scholarship Halls Program
KU's unique Scholarship Halls offer lower-cost cooperative living for students who share cooking and chores. Residents benefit from reduced housing costs and a tight-knit community experience.
- Type: Cooperative living with reduced housing costs
- Eligibility: Open to students demonstrating financial need and academic merit
- Application: Separate application through KU Housing
Campus & Facilities at the University of Kansas
Campus & Facilities at the University of Kansas
Spanning approximately 1,000 acres atop Mount Oread, the University of Kansas campus is a cherished historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The campus features a captivating blend of limestone architecture, modern research facilities, and scenic natural landscapes including Potter Lake and the Marvin Grove.
The iconic main corridor of KU's campus, lined with historic buildings spanning over a century of architectural heritage
One of the most legendary basketball arenas in the world, home to the Kansas Jayhawks since 1955
Founded in 1928, the museum houses diverse cultural collections from around the world with emphasis on American Indian materials
Housing & Dining
Residence Life
KU offers a range of on-campus housing options including traditional residence halls, apartments, and the unique Scholarship Halls cooperative living program.
- Newest residence halls on Daisy Hill
- Scholarship Halls with cooperative living
- Private apartment-style options available
Dining Services
KU Dining Services provides flexible meal plans and a variety of dining venues across campus to accommodate diverse dietary preferences and needs.
- Multiple dining halls and cafes across campus
- Flexible meal plan options for all students
- Dietary accommodation for various needs
Student Life at the University of Kansas
Student Life at the University of Kansas
Student life at KU is vibrant and diverse, with over 500 student organizations, a thriving Greek life scene, and a passionate sports culture centered around the legendary Jayhawks. Lawrence itself is a dynamic college town known for its live music scene, eclectic shops, and welcoming community atmosphere.
Lawrence, Kansas: A Vibrant College Town
Lawrence, Kansas: A Vibrant College Town
Life in Lawrence
Lawrence is a lively college town of approximately 100,000 residents, known for its progressive culture, thriving arts scene, and rich history rooted in the abolitionist movement. Located about 40 miles west of Kansas City, Lawrence offers the charm of a small city with easy access to a major metropolitan area.
Massachusetts Street
The iconic downtown strip features eclectic shops, local restaurants, live music venues, and coffee shops that define Lawrence's unique character
Proximity to Kansas City
Kansas City International Airport is just 40 miles away, and the KC metro area offers professional sports, cultural attractions, and career opportunities
Arts & Culture
Lawrence is home to the Lied Center of Kansas, the Spencer Museum of Art, and a thriving local music and arts scene
Outdoor Recreation
Enjoy Clinton Lake, local parks, and scenic trails around Lawrence, plus the natural beauty of the Kansas Flint Hills region nearby
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Top Employers of KU Graduates
Practical Information for Prospective Students
Practical Information for Prospective Students
For International Students
KU's Applied English Center and International Support Services assist international students with visa guidance, orientation, cultural adjustment, and English language support.
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 79), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test (100+). Conditional admission may be available through the Applied English Center.
The City of Lawrence and KU have combined their bus systems, providing free transit across campus and throughout the city. Kansas City International Airport is approximately 40 miles from campus with shuttle services available.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Kansas Worldwide Rankings
University of Kansas Worldwide Rankings
The University of Kansas is consistently recognized among leading public research universities in the United States and holds strong positions in multiple global ranking systems. As a member of the Association of American Universities, KU's research output and academic reputation earn it recognition across numerous disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Education | US News & World Report | #15 (Graduate, tied) |
| Pharmacy & Pharmacology | QS World University Rankings | Top 150 globally |
| Special Education | US News & World Report | Top nationally ranked program |
| Public Administration | US News & World Report | Top nationally ranked program |
Features
Large, diverse campus with strong research programs\n\nKnown for medicine, engineering, law, and business schools\n\nActive student life with over 600 student organizations\n\nExtensive library and research facilities\n\nStrong emphasis on community engagement and innovation

Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.

Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.

Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
1450 Jayhawk Blvd, Lawrence, KS 66045
Map not found.
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