Selective88% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into University of Kansas

Lawrence, Kansas Public University • #122 National • Founded 1865

KU Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

88%
Acceptance Rate
3.45
Average GPA
1205
Average SAT
25
Average ACT
16,000+
Total Applicants
4,800
Class Size
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

KU SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1100-1310
Average1205
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range22-28
Average25
2036

About University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a flagship state university in Lawrence, home to a top-ranked pharmacy school and passionate basketball tradition. KU's affordable tuition, beautiful campus on Mount Oread, and strong regional reputation make it a smart choice for Midwest students.

Top Programs

PharmacyBusinessEngineeringJournalismSpecial Education

What Makes KU Unique

  • Birthplace of basketball — James Naismith coached here
  • #1 ranked pharmacy school in the nation
  • Beautiful campus on Mount Oread with panoramic views
  • Lawrence is one of the best college towns in the Midwest
  • Strong journalism and special education programs

KU Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$11,148/yr
Total Cost$24,200/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$55,500/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid70%
Avg Aid Package$12,000+
School TypePublic

KU Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
Rolling

How to Get Into KU: Admission Tips

1

KU has very high acceptance — focus on honors and scholarships

2

University Honors Program offers small-class experience

3

Rolling admissions — apply early for best aid packages

4

If interested in pharmacy, KU's direct-admit program is valuable

5

Rock Chalk Jayhawk — show school spirit in your application

The Brutal Truth About KU Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 88% acceptance rate, KU rejected over 1,920 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At KU, having a 3.45 GPA and 1205 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.

The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. KU doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.

Bottom line: Apply if KU genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 88%-acceptance-rate basket.

KU Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at University of Kansas?

University of Kansas has an acceptance rate of 88% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 16,000+ applicants, approximately 4,800 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into KU?

The average GPA of admitted students at University of Kansas is 3.45. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.30, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for KU?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted KU students is 1100-1310. The average SAT score is 1205. For ACT, the range is 22-28 with an average of 25.

Is KU hard to get into?

Yes, University of Kansas is selective with an acceptance rate of just 88%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.

How much does KU cost?

Tuition at University of Kansas is $11,148 per year, with total cost of attendance at $24,200. However, 70% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $12,000+.

What are my chances of getting into KU?

Your chances of getting into University of Kansas depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 88% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.

Free — No credit card required

What Are Your Chances at KU?

Enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. Get a personalized, brutally honest assessment of your odds — plus scholarship estimates.

Trusted by 65+ students. AI-powered. Takes 2 minutes.

Popular Majors at KU

Pharmacy
Business at KUEngineering at KU
Journalism
Special Education

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