Pre-Arrival Information

Preparing for your move to Kansas City is an exciting step. Here is everything you need to know about booking your flight, what to bring, and what to expect when you arrive.

Book Your Flight

Kansas City International Airport (airport code: MCI) is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, Southwest and United. Make sure MCI is listed as your final destination.

Keep these tips in mind:

  • Confirm your flight details at least three days before departure
  • Arrive in Kansas City no later than the program start date noted on your I-20 or DS-2019
  • F-1 visa holders cannot enter the United States more than 30 days before the earliest arrival date listed on your I-20
  • Airlines limit the weight of each suitcase. Consider shipping some items to UMKC before you leave

In Transit

Keep these items with you during your flight (not in checked luggage):

  • Passport
  • I-20 or DS-2019
  • Admission letter
  • Bank statements or funding verification
  • Any other official or original documents, such as transcripts or diplomas

Carry only enough cash to cover initial expenses like transportation, meals and a night or two of lodging. Do not travel with large amounts of cash, and never leave your luggage unattended.

On Arrival

Transportation from the airport

You have several options for getting from the airport to your lodging.

Rideshare

Uber and Lyft are the most popular choices. Iris and zTrip are also available. Rates vary based on distance and time of day. Make sure you have collected all your bags before booking a ride.

Taxi

Expect to pay $40 to $100, plus tip. Options include KC Atlas Cab, Checker Cab, zTrip, ASAP Airport Taxi, KCI Airport Taxi, Orange Cab Co., KC Taxi Cab and Superior Taxi.

Shuttle services

Private and chauffeured shuttle services are available for reservation through VisitKC.

Metro bus

RideKC Route #229 (Boardwalk-KCI) serves the airport. Most RideKC buses are free. Buses run from 5 a.m. to midnight, depending on the route.

Plan your trip on RideKC

Housing

You should already know where you will stay when you arrive. Have your address ready for transportation.

University housing does not automatically come with admission. If you want to live on campus, you must apply separately. You are not required to live on campus, so you may also choose to rent an apartment or room in Kansas City.

We recommend securing housing before you arrive. If you have not yet arranged permanent housing, select a temporary option (such as a hotel) and search for off-campus housing.

Review housing options

Hotels near the airport

If your flight arrives late at night, we suggest staying near the airport and traveling to Kansas City the next day. Call ahead and mention UMKC for a discounted rate.

  • Days Inn by Wyndham
    • 11120 N. Ambassador Dr. | 816-787-1206
    • Airport shuttle available 24/7 (fee applies)
  • Drury Inn and Suites
    • 7900 NW Tiffany Springs Pkwy. | 816-880-9700
    • Free airport shuttle, 4:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
  • Sonesta Select
    • 7901 NW Tiffany Springs Pkwy. | 816-891-7500
    • Free airport shuttle, 24/7

Hotels near UMKC