Future Students

We've Changed Our Name

We've changed our name from the International Student Affairs Office to International Student and Scholar Services. We're still providing the same level of services and support to our community of international students and scholars.

2.3

Million people

The number of people living in the metropolitan area ranks Kansas City as the largest city in Missouri, the sixth largest city in the Midwest and the 37th most populated city in the United States.

9

Fortune 500 companies

Kansas City is home to several global companies, including three on the Fortune 500 list. This is where many startups get their start, too. Our proximity to health care, technology, manufacturing and finance provides opportunities for exciting internships and careers.

2.5%

Cost of living below the national average

That's how much further your dollars can go here than in some other U.S. cities. Combined with an employment rate above the national average, Kansas City is an extremely affordable place to live and even raise a family.

map of US with KC starred

The Center of It All

Known for its friendly people, affordable prices and central location, Kansas City — affectionately called KC — has a welcoming energy. It's a place with both a creative spirit and a genuine heart. It's a breath of fresh air and a city with room to breathe. Let us show you KC.

Safety at UMKC

Something for Everyone

KC is experiencing a creative revolution — in food, art, business and technology. We're welcoming new people and new ideas, making the city an exciting place to be.

Arts

Creativity thrives in Kansas City. We're home to internationally known museums, dynamic gallery districts and celebrated musical and theatrical performances. Several celebrated companies, including the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, the Kansas City Symphony and the Kansas City Ballet, have been captivating audiences in Kansas City for decades.

Sports

American football, baseball, hockey and race-car driving teams have all made their home in Kansas City, but we're quickly becoming known as the U.S. soccer capital. Two-time MLS Cup champions Sporting Kansas City play here, and we recently broke ground on the first soccer stadium built for women's soccer in the United States. We're even hosting FIFA World Cup 2026!

Gaming

With the introduction of major advancements in fiber and internet technologies, Kansas City has grown into a hub for players, fans and content creators. In fact, a recent online survey ranked Kansas City as the second-best city across the United States and Canada for gamers. We also boast our own LEGOLAND Discovery Center and Planet Comicon and plenty of arcades, VR game rooms and other fun activities and events.

The New Midwest

The New Midwest represents a fresh spirit, a reimagination of the region at its finest. And it all starts right here in Kansas City.

Make Yourself at Home

smiling student stands by brick wall

On-campus living

  

kc streetcar at night

Getting around the city