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University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS · Public

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88.2%
Acceptance
1160
SAT
$37,934
Sticker Price
$16,097
Net Price*
$61,945
Earnings
2.4 yrs
Payback
19,226
Applicants

*Net price for families earning $48k–$75k. See all income brackets →

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What is University of Kansas's acceptance rate?

Down 3.5 percentage points since 2018

With a 88.2% acceptance rate, University of Kansas is considered accessible. The school has become increasingly competitive over the past five years. Applicants should focus on demonstrating strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and authentic personal essays to stand out in the applicant pool.

How many students apply to University of Kansas?

University of Kansas received 19,226 applications in 2023, up 30% since 2018. High application volume means admissions officers spend limited time per application—typically 8-15 minutes. Make every word count in your essays and ensure your application materials are error-free.

Applications
Admitted

How many admitted students enroll?

The yield rate of 31% is moderate for a school of this caliber. Yield rate measures how many admitted students actually enroll—a key indicator of how desirable students find the school. Demonstrating genuine interest through campus visits, attending info sessions, and writing specific "Why Us" essays can improve your chances.

What are the most popular majors at University of Kansas?

Psychology, General leads as the most popular major at University of Kansas. Your intended major can affect admission chances—some programs are more competitive than others. Research department-specific requirements, faculty research, and career outcomes when choosing your major. Consider how your academic interests align with the school's strengths.

How have majors changed over time?

Degrees awarded by major, 2015-2023

How has tuition changed at University of Kansas?

Out-of-state tuition has increased by 18% since 2015. Total cost of attendance (including fees and room & board) has grown 19% from $31,934 to $37,934.

Tuition (Out-of-State) Tuition (In-State) Total Cost

How much do University of Kansas graduates earn by major?

Graduates in Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering earn among the highest salaries, with median earnings of $69,338 within two years of graduation. Earnings vary significantly by major—STEM and business fields typically offer higher starting salaries, while humanities and arts may have different career trajectories. Consider both passion and practical outcomes when choosing your field of study.

Electrical, Electronics and Co... $69,338
$9,348 $155,297
Mechanical Engineering $66,001
$9,348 $155,297
Computer and Information Scien... $64,990
$9,348 $155,297
Civil Engineering $63,666
$9,348 $155,297
Petroleum Engineering $63,005
$9,348 $155,297
Chemical Engineering $59,722
$9,348 $155,297
Registered Nursing, Nursing Ad... $58,350
$9,348 $155,297
Aerospace, Aeronautical and As... $57,318
$9,348 $155,297
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University of Kansas Admissions Statistics (2018-2023)

Each row shows the admissions cycle for that academic year. Applicants is the total number of students who applied for freshman admission. Admitted shows how many received acceptance letters. Rate is the acceptance rate (admitted ÷ applicants) — lower percentages indicate more selective schools. Yield measures the percentage of admitted students who actually enrolled — a high yield (above 50%) suggests the school is a top choice for admitted students, while lower yields indicate students often choose other options. SAT shows the 25th-75th percentile range, meaning the middle 50% of enrolled students scored within this range. Data is sourced from IPEDS, the federal database where all US colleges report annually.

Year Applicants Admitted Rate Yield
2023 19,226 16,958 88.2% 31.0%
2022 16,204 14,234 87.8% 31.3%
2021 15,275 14,129 92.5% 29.1%
2020 15,042 13,678 90.9% 28.0%
2019 15,093 14,052 93.1% 29.4%
2018 14,752 13,529 91.7% 30.8%
2017 14,538 13,576 93.4% 30.6%
2016 15,015 13,965 93.0% 30.3%
2015 15,155 14,165 93.5% 29.6%

Is University of Kansas worth it?

Calculate your personal ROI

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Earnings & ROI Range (10yr)
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What do University of Kansas graduates earn?

Median Earnings (10 years)
$61,945
Earnings Range (10th - 90th percentile)
$13,700 $61,945 median $91,600

Earnings vary widely: the bottom 10% earn $13,700 while the top 10% earn $91,600. Your outcome depends heavily on major, career path, and individual circumstances.

Median Earnings (6 years)
$51,217
Median Debt
$21,000
6-Year Graduation Rate
68.8%

How much does University of Kansas cost?

The total cost of attendance at University of Kansas is approximately $37,934 per year for out-of-state students. Remember: sticker price rarely equals actual cost. Most students receive financial aid, and net price varies significantly by family income. Use the school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate before ruling out any option based on cost alone.

In-State Tuition
$10,092
Out-of-State Tuition
$26,960
Fees
$1,074
Room & Board
$9,900
Total Cost of Attendance
$37,934

What You'll Actually Pay

Net price represents what families actually pay after grants and scholarships. The figures above are averages—your actual cost depends on family income, assets, and the school's aid policies. Many selective private schools are more affordable than public universities for middle and lower-income families due to generous institutional aid.

$0-30k income $10,908
$30-48k income $12,702
$48-75k income $16,097
$75-110k income $20,649
$110k+ income $21,310

Which majors pay the most?

  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $69,338
  • Mechanical Engineering $66,001
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General $64,990
  • Civil Engineering $63,666
  • Petroleum Engineering $63,005

Who attends University of Kansas?

University of Kansas enrolls 28,406 students, with 7% from outside the United States. Women make up 55% of the student body. Campus diversity enriches the educational experience through varied perspectives and backgrounds. Consider how you'll contribute to and benefit from the campus community when crafting your application.

Total Enrollment 28,406
Retention Rate 85%
International 7%
Women 55%
Race/Ethnicity
White 66%
Hispanic 9%
Asian 6%
Black 4%

How much financial aid is available?

70% of students receive some form of financial aid at University of Kansas. About 20% receive Pell Grants, indicating support for low-income students. Apply for aid regardless of your family's income level—merit scholarships and institutional grants are available to students at various income levels. Never assume you won't qualify.

Receive Grants 70%
Avg: $10,731 free money/year
Pell Grant Recipients 20%
Federal aid for <$60k income families
Have Federal Loans 37%
Avg: $6,379
School's Own Grants 85%
Avg: $9,441 from school funds

How much do professors earn?

Faculty salaries at University of Kansas are above the national average, reflecting the school's investment in attracting and retaining talented professors. Higher faculty compensation often correlates with stronger research programs, better student mentorship, and more resources for academic departments. Look for opportunities to engage with faculty through research, office hours, and smaller seminars.

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