University of Kansas
The Vibe Check
The University of Kansas feels like a spirited Big 12 hub where basketball passion meets Midwestern warmth. You'll find a mix of classic college town energy and supportive, collaborative classrooms that make a large university feel like a community.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
KU is a research powerhouse with strong programs in business, health professions, engineering, and communications. Students benefit from hands-on research opportunities through the University of Kansas Cancer Center and the Institute for Information Science.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Lawrence
Lawrence offers a vibrant downtown with live music, local coffee shops, and farm-to-table dining, plus the artsy vibe of the Mass Street district. Students enjoy game days at Allen Fieldhouse, exploring the Lawrence Arts Center, and weekend trips to nearby lakes and trails.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($61,945):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Campus safety is taken seriously with 24/7 patrols, well-lit pathways, and robust emergency systems. Lawrence is generally safe, but students should stay aware in off-campus areas and use campus shuttles at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Top-tier basketball culture and spirited game-day atmosphere
- ✓ Strong research opportunities across engineering, health, and life sciences
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition with good ROI for Kansas residents
- ✓ Vibrant downtown Lawrence with music, arts, and local dining
Cons
- ✗ Higher out-of-state tuition can be a significant financial hurdle
- ✗ Large class sizes in intro courses may feel impersonal
- ✗ Winters can be cold and windy on the plains
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
KU is widely known for its powerhouse men's basketball program, the Jayhawks, and its historic Allen Fieldhouse. Academically, it is recognized for strong programs in business, engineering, health professions, psychology, communications, and biology, along with robust research in information science and cancer studies.
KU has an acceptance rate of about 88%, making it broadly accessible, but admissions are still competitive for top programs. The middle 50% SAT range is roughly 1130–1300 (around an average of 1186), and admitted students typically have solid GPAs and a rigorous high school curriculum.
Campus life blends spirited athletics with a welcoming college town feel. Students enjoy clubs, Greek life, intramurals, and frequent events on Mass Street; with an 85% first-year retention rate, many find a strong sense of community.
For in-state students, KU offers strong value with a net price around $17,365 and 10-year median earnings near $61,945, suggesting a solid return on investment. Out-of-state students should compare offers carefully and explore scholarships, as the higher tuition can impact overall ROI.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 20,850
- In-State Tuition $11,700
- Out-of-State $29,412
- Zip Code 66045
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With in-state tuition around $11,700 and an average net price of $17,365, KU offers solid value for Kansas residents. Out-of-state students should weigh the $29,412 price tag against the $61,945 10-year median earnings and consider merit scholarships or the Midwest Student Exchange to reduce costs.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.