KCU is a private institution and encourages applications from qualified students who are interested in pursuing a career in osteopathic medicine, dental medicine, clinical psychology or biomedical sciences. KCU is committed to admitting a diverse student body.
Applicants are encouraged to visit the KCU website to review the application process and frequently asked questions for clarification. Applicants are also welcome to contact the Office of Admissions directly.
Authorization to Release Applicant Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) specifies that only the applicant has access to the application material and the status of his/her application. If the applicant wants another party or multiple parties (e.g., parent, spouse, advisor, physician, friend) to check the status of his/her application, the applicant is required to submit, in writing, a signed waiver giving personnel of KCU permission to discuss all details of the application with each said individual.
Prior Dismissal
Students who were dismissed from a previous college or university for any reason will not be considered for admission to KCU.
College of Dental Medicine
Doctor of Dental Medicine
Academic Requirements
The minimum academic requirements for admission to the first-year CDM class are:
- Completion of the Dental Admissions Test (DAT) within three years prior to the matriculation date.
- A baccalaureate degree earned from a regionally accredited college or University.
- Exceptions are only made for those students accepted through our Partner Program.
- Satisfactory completion, with a grade of C or higher, of the following college courses, including laboratory work:
- General Biology (Zoology, or similar is an acceptable alternative)- one year of lecture & lab (8 semester/12 quarter hours)
- Microbiology - one semester of lecture & lab, (4 semester/6 quarter hours)
- General Chemistry - one year of lecture & lab, (8 semester/12 quarter hours)
- Organic Chemistry - one year of lecture & lab, (8 semester/12 quarter hours)
- Additional Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics courses - (12 semester/18 quarter hours)
- English Composition/Technical Writing - (6 semester/8 quarter hours)
- Completion of the following courses is strongly recommended, but not required:
- Human Anatomy - one semester lecture and lab, (4 semester/6 quarter hours)
- Biochemistry - (3 semester/4 quarter hours)
Substitutions or Waiver of Admissions Requirements
Prerequisite course substitutions are permitted in some situations. An applicant may request substitution of undergraduate coursework for KCU’s prerequisites by forwarding the following to the Office of Admissions:
- A letter describing the rationale for the request
- One or more of the following supporting documents:
- A faculty letter detailing course content.
- A copy of the course description from the university catalog.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Applicants will be notified of decisions upon review of course content. Please note that if a substitution is granted, the substituted course will not be counted toward the fulfillment of any other prerequisite.
Admissions Partner Programs
KCU has developed partner programs with select educational institutions that have exceptional predental programs. The Partner Program sequence requires:
- Petition to participate through the Partner Program’s undergraduate pre-dental advisor
- a minimum ACT score of 24
- the completion of all dental school prerequisites in the first three years of matriculation (minimum of 90 semester or 135 quarter credits)
- a cumulative grade point average of 3.25
- A minimum 3.5 science GPA
Students must maintain the GPAs listed above in order to matriculate at KCU. For the most current list of Partner Programs, please refer to the KCU website.
Application Process
Step 1: Application
Associated American Dental Schools Application Service (AADSAS) is a web-based application for individuals seeking admission to colleges of dental medicine. All applicants must use the AADSAS portal to apply for admission at KCU.
The AADSAS application is open June through March every year. For example, students may submit applications as early as June 2023 for a Fall 2024 start date. All application materials, including detailed instructions, can be accessed through the AADSAS website.
AADSAS gathers all the necessary material about each applicant and transmits the information in a standardized format to the college of dental medicine selected by the applicant.
KCU conducts an initial review of the transmitted AADSAS application, DAT scores and academic records to determine which applications will be further processed. Applicants are encouraged to include the scheduled DAT test dates on the AADSAS application to indicate the intent of taking or retaking the exam.
Step 2: KCU-CDM Secondary Application
Upon review of your AADSAS application, KCU invites qualified applicants to complete our secondary application online.
Submit three letters of recommendation (if you submitted through AADSAS, we will download letters to your KCU file).
- One from a pre-health advisor or committee; may substitute a science faculty member who is familiar with your scholastic performance
- One from a dentist (non-family member)
- One from an individual who can attest to your academic strengths, abilities and fit for dental school
Letters must be dated within two years of matriculation year (i.e., if starting classes at KCU in August 2024, letters must be dated no earlier than May 2022).
Step 3: Complete your Interview with KCU
Invitations for interviews will be sent to the email provided in your AADSAS application. Interviews are conducted virtually and are by invitation only. Interviews begin in August.
Application Schedule
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process a year prior to matriculation. The following represents a monthly guide for application preparation.
May - June
- Contact all colleges and universities attended and have official transcripts forwarded directly from the education institution to AADSAS.
- Complete AADSAS application.
July
- Submit final transcript if necessary.
August - March
- KCU conducts personal interviews with selected applicants.
March 1
- AADSAS application deadline. Secondary applications are accepted and processed until all interview positions have been filled. Conditional acceptances begin going out December 15th, after which KCU offers rolling admissions.
Applicant Review & Notification
The major criteria for rating applicants include academic excellence and nonacademic achievements. Academic excellence is measured by an assessment of the results of the DAT, grades and grade point averages. Nonacademic achievements also are considered, as well as a candidate’s ability and desire to fulfill the mission of the University. The Admissions Committee looks for the following nonacademic achievements:
- Leadership roles
- Involvement in community organizations/projects
- Involvement in research activities
- Commitment to an organization(s) for more than two years
- Participation in a domestic/international mission trip
- Experience in a clinical setting
- Volunteer experiences
- Shadowing of a dental health professional
Following the above assessment, selected applicants are invited for a formal personal interview. Interviews are opportunities for applicants to demonstrate professionalism, critical thinking, and high-level communication skills.
After the interview, the Admissions Committee reviews the applicant’s file and then makes recommendations to the dean of CDM for consideration. Applicants are notified on December 15th or after.
Matriculation Requirements
Deposits
An acceptance deposit and a matriculation deposit are required from admitted applicants. (See CDM Tuition & Fees.) Acceptance is conditional until all fees, paperwork, and coursework is completed. Failure to submit all documents and forms by the posted due dates will result in forfeiture of seat in the upcoming class. Acceptance and matriculation deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable to another program. Students who pay the deposit(s) but do not attend will have their deposit(s) forfeited. For those who pay their deposits and matriculate, the amount will be credited to their tuition.
Official Transcripts
All incoming students are required to submit official transcripts from all universities or colleges attended (including dual credit in high school) to the KCU Office of Admissions. Official transcripts submitted to AADSAS will be downloaded by the Office of Admissions. Applicants only need to submit updated transcripts showing courses that were in progress or showing degree conferred. If you have any questions about which transcripts are due, please email dentaladmissions@kansascity.edu. All required coursework is to be completed with a grade of C or better and degree completion be verified no later than July 1 of the matriculation year, unless granted an extension by the Office of Admissions.
Criminal Background Check
Prior to matriculation, all students matriculating into KCU must have a criminal background check performed at their own expense. The background check will be performed by a certifying organization retained by KCU. The purpose of the background check is to satisfy federal and state requirements for individuals participating in clinical activities involving patient care.
Students will be required to pay for an additional background check in select degree programs before starting clinical activities.
Note: Discovery following admission or matriculation of intentional misrepresentation or omission of any information used in the application process will subject the student to disciplinary action, including rescinded admission, probation, suspension, or dismissal. Matriculation will be denied to applicants who have failed to maintain a good record of scholastic performance and/or personal conduct between the time of their acceptance and matriculation at the University. The University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any reason the University deems sufficient.
Immunization & Health Requirements
Students who project themselves as future health care professionals are obligated to protect their health and the health of their future patients. All matriculating students at KCU are required to be vaccinated in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immunization guidelines. These guidelines change and are updated periodically, and applicants and students are expected to be knowledgeable regarding the current CDC guidelines for health care workers found on their website: www.cdc.gov. KCU students are responsible for maintaining a current and thoroughly documented official record of immunizations at all times. More information is available online.
Students who fail to meet these guidelines will not be allowed to matriculate or may jeopardize their eligibility for continued enrollment.
Required Textbooks
The lists of required textbooks for students are posted on the library website. Students are responsible for purchasing and having all textbooks or e-books on the provided lists.
Dental Equipment
Students are required to have certain dental equipment when starting dental school. Information is sent from the Office of Admissions to students prior to matriculation concerning specific equipment and pricing. Dental equipment can be purchased through the KCU Campus Store.
Transfer Admission Policy
The CDM does not accept transfer students and applicants are not eligible for transfer credit or placement into an advanced year.
Health & Minimum Technical Standards
All candidates and enrolled dental students must meet health and technical standards to be admitted to, participate in and graduate from the dental education programs of KCU. Applicants are advised to review this policy online.
Reasonable accommodations will be made as required by law; however, the candidate/student must be able to meet all technical standards with or without reasonable accommodation. Please refer to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Requests for accommodations should be directed to the KCU disability services coordinator.
Notice of Health Risks
Dental students, interacting with patients in hospitals and in clinics, are exposed to a variety of infectious agents. Although universal precautions are required in many of these encounters, the risk of infection is still increased. In order to protect the dental student, and to prevent the spread of disease to patients, dental students must satisfy the immunization requirements. Refer to the immunization requirements for KCU.
Housing
KCU does not provide housing.
College of Biosciences
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (KCU-Kansas City)
The five-year Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) program’s sequential, cumulative, and gradated curriculum, students gain the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to practice as highly competent, caring, patient-focused clinical psychologists.
Academic Requirements
To be considered for admission, applicants must submit the following documented evidence:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
- If applicant does not meet the undergraduate GPA requirement, a graduate GPA of 3.50 or better in a Psychology-related field and a cumulative/overall GPA of 3.00 or better may be used for consideration.
- Completion of 18 semester hours or equivalent of prerequisite coursework in psychology with a grade of C or better and must include:
- Introduction to General Psychology
- Human Growth and Development or Personality Theory
- Statistics or Tests and Measurements
- Graduate Records Examination (GRE) General Test or GRE Psychology Subject Test scores using the KCU institution code of 6182:
- Scores will be accepted from tests taken within two years prior to the matriculation date.
- For more information about the GRE, contact Educational Testing Services (ETS) at 609.771.7670 or toll-free at 866.473.4373 or visit www.ets.org/gre.
- Motivation for and commitment to health care as demonstrated by previous work, volunteer work or other life experiences.
- Oral and written communication skills necessary to interact with patients and colleagues.
- Commitment to abide by KCU’s Drug-Free Workplace and Substance Abuse Policy.
- Passage of the KCU criminal background check.
Substitutions or Waivers of Admission Requirements
Prerequisite course substitutions are permitted in some situations. Any request for substitutions or waiver of any of the admission requirements must be submitted in writing to the Office of Admissions stating the request, rationale for the request and supporting documentation.
An applicant may request substitution of undergraduate coursework prerequisites by forwarding one or more of the following to the Admissions office:
- A faculty letter detailing course content.
- A copy of the course description from the University Catalog.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Documentation providing the most detail will expedite the review process. Applicants will be notified of decisions upon review of course content. If a substitution is granted, the substituted course will not be counted toward the fulfillment of any other prerequisite.
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process six to eight months prior to anticipated matriculation. Applicants can apply online through the KCU website.
Admissions personnel are available to respond to your calls between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. toll-free at 877.425.0427 or 816.654.7160.
Application Schedule
The following represents a monthly guide for application preparation.
October
- Begin KCU-Kansas City PsyD Application.
- Contact all colleges and universities attended and have official transcripts forwarded directly from the educational institution to KCU.
- Acceptance is conditional until all official transcripts are received from previous colleges/universities attended. Transcripts must be received by the Office of Admissions no later than July 1.
- Submit GRE scores to the Office of Admissions.
- Have three letters of recommendation sent directly to the KCU Office of Admissions at psyd@kansascity.edu.
- Two of the three letters must be from individuals in the field of psychology who can attest to your dedication to the field and quality of work.
November through April
- Submit KCU-Kansas City PsyD Application to meet priority deadline for early consideration.
- Interviews begin.
June
- Submit final transcripts if needed.
*Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the class has been filled.
Applicant Review & Notification
The Admissions Committee also looks for the following nonacademic achievements:
- Leadership roles.
- Involvement in community organizations/projects.
- Involvement in research activities.
- Participation in a domestic/international mission trip.
- Work experience in psychology or a psychology-related field (e.g., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), social work, counseling).
- Shadowing of a psychologist.
Following the above assessment, selected applicants are invited for a formal personal interview. Interviews are opportunities for applicants to demonstrate professionalism, critical thinking, and high level communication skills.
After the interview, the Admissions Committee reviews the applicant’s file and then makes recommendations on acceptance. Applicants are notified as soon as a final admission decision has been made.
Clinical Psychology Advanced Standing (AS)
Students who have completed a master’s degree in psychology may be eligible to apply for the Advanced Standing track (AS).
Transfer Credit Policy for AS
- Transferred course credits must be from a regionally accredited school and must have been at the graduate level.
- No more than 10 credit hours may be transferred.
- No credit hours for practicum will be transferred, however students must provide documentation of clinical practicum experience.
- Students must demonstrate completed course equivalency for all of the following:
- PSYD 104 - Psychopathology or PSYD 107 - Ethical & Prof Issues in Psychology
- PSYD 130 - Research Methodology I
- PSYD 141 - Psych Development II: Adolescents-Adults
- PSYD 162 - Clinical Appraisal & Interviewing
- PSYD 202 - Development of Racial & Ethnic Identity or PSYD 205 - Social & Cultural Bases of Behavior
- The grade achieved in the completed course and documented in the student’s official transcript must be a “B” or better and the course must be taken within seven years of matriculation.
- The number of credits for a transfer course must be equal to or greater than the KCU course.
- The course content submitted for transfer must be an essential equivalent to the KCU course; equivalence is determined via a review of the syllabus.
Application Process
- Applicants pursuing Advanced Standing should reach out to the Office of Admissions for guidance on the application process.
- The applicant must submit the application for AS no later than six weeks prior to the start of the term. After the start of the fall semester, applications for AS will not be accepted.
- The applicant must prepare a packet of materials that includes the following:
- Cover letter requesting advanced standing.
- Request for Transfer Credit form.
- Syllabi for each requested course must be supplied and must include the content of the course, instructor’s credentials, text, and course requirements.
- The Program Director will review the courses and syllabi for Advanced Standing approval. The Program Director will seek consultation from KCU faculty teaching the course whenever necessary.
- The applicant will receive notification of the final decision via Workday.
Matriculation Requirements
Deposit
A nonrefundable matriculation deposit is required from accepted applicants. (See Tuition & Fees.) Acceptance is conditional until all fees, paperwork, and coursework is completed. Failure to submit all documents and forms by the posted due dates will result in forfeiture of seat in the upcoming class. The matriculation deposit is non-refundable. Applicants who pay the seat deposit but do not attend will have their deposit forfeited.
For those who successfully matriculate, their deposit will be credited to their tuition.
For VA Students: If VA funding covers the full amount of tuition and mandatory fees to the University for the term, the tuition and fee credit balance on the account, including for deposits, will be refunded once funding is received.
Immunizations
Prior to matriculation, all entering students must be vaccinated in accordance with University’s guidelines, which are posted online. KCU determines immunization requirements based upon current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for health care workers. These guidelines/requirements change and are updated periodically. Applicants and students are expected to be knowledgeable of the current CDC guidelines for health care workers found on the website www.cdc.gov.
Criminal Background Check
Prior to matriculation, all KCU students must agree to and undergo a criminal background check at their own expense. The background check will be performed by a certifying organization retained by the University.
Note: Discovery following admission or matriculation of intentional misrepresentation or omission of any information used in the application process will subject the student to disciplinary action, including rescinded admission, probation, suspension or dismissal. Matriculation will be denied to applicants who have failed to maintain a good record of scholastic performance and/or personal conduct between the time of their acceptance and matriculation at the University. The University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any reason the University deems sufficient.
Health & Technical Standards
All candidates and enrolled students must meet health and technical standards to be admitted to, participate in and graduate from the medical education programs of KCU. Applicants are advised to review this policy online.
Reasonable accommodations will be made as required by law; however, the candidate/student must be able to meet all technical standards with or without reasonable accommodation. Please refer to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Requests for accommodations should be directed to the KCU disability services coordinator.
Vaccinations & Immunizations
A student who cannot provide an official up-to-date immunization record, in accordance with University requirements, will not be allowed to begin or continue with clinical training and will be referred to the appropriate University official for disciplinary action.
Housing
KCU does not provide housing.
Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences
There are two options for students interested in pursuing the accredited Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. Individuals may apply for the non-research track or the research track program.
Academic Requirements
Requirements for admission to the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences in either the non-research or research tracks:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
- Completion of 13 hours of chemistry (including organic chemistry), 12 hours of biological sciences, 8 hours of physics.
- Graduate entrance examination completion of either the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT), Dental Admission Test (DAT), or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional. However, if a student plans to apply for medical or dental school, graduate entrance examination scores will most likely be required for entrance into those programs.
- Two letters of recommendation, preferably from science faculty familiar with the applicant’s academic abilities.
- All transcripts from any college or university attended. If you have already submitted an application to KCU-COM, you do not need to submit transcripts at this time. For more information about the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences, please contact the KCU Office of Admissions toll-free at 800.234.4847 or 816.654.7160.
Substitutions or Waivers of Admissions Requirements
Prerequisite course substitutions are permitted in some situations. Any request for substitutions or waiver of any of the admission requirements must be submitted in writing to the Office of Admissions stating the request, rationale for the request and supporting documentation. An applicant may request substitution of undergraduate coursework prerequisites by forwarding one or more of the following to Admissions:
- A faculty letter detailing course content.
- A copy of the course description from the University catalog.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Documentation providing the most detail will expedite the review process. Applicants will be notified of decisions upon review of course content. If a substitution is granted, the substituted course will not be counted toward the fulfillment of any other prerequisite.
Application Process
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process a year prior to anticipated matriculation.
Applicant Review & Notification
The major criteria for rating applicants include both academic excellence (course grades, GPA and admission test scores) and nonacademic achievements (community and volunteer services), as well as the candidate’s ability and desire to fulfill the mission of the University. Applicants are notified as soon as a final admission decision has been made.
Matriculation Requirements
Matriculation Deposit
A nonrefundable matriculation deposit is required from accepted applicants. (See COB Tuition & Fees ) Acceptance is conditional until all fees, paperwork, and coursework is completed. Failure to submit all documents and forms by the posted due dates will result in forfeiture of seat in the upcoming class. The matriculation deposit is non-refundable. For those who pay their deposit, the amount will be credited to their tuition.
For VA Students: If VA funding covers the full amount of tuition and mandatory fees to the University for the term, the tuition and fee credit balance on the account, including for deposits, will be refunded once funding is received.
Official Transcripts
Acceptance is conditional until all official transcripts are received from previous colleges/universities attended. Transcripts must be received by the Office of Admissions by July 1. Applicants accepted while completing coursework will be expected to receive a grade of C or higher, and degree requirements must be completed by July 1, unless granted an extension by the Office of Admissions
Immunizations
Prior to matriculation, all entering students must be vaccinated in accordance with University’s guidelines. KCU determines immunization requirements based upon current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for health care workers in combination with current requirements for Clinical Education. These guidelines/requirements change and are updated periodically. Applicants and students are expected to be knowledgeable of the current CDC guidelines for health care workers found on the website www.cdc.gov.
Criminal Background Check
Prior to matriculation, all KCU students must agree to and undergo a criminal background check at their own expense. The background check will be performed by a certifying organization retained by the University.
Note: Discovery following admission or matriculation of intentional misrepresentation or omission of any information used in the application process will subject the student to disciplinary action, including rescinded admission, probation, suspension or dismissal. Matriculation will be denied to applicants who have failed to maintain a good record of scholastic performance and/or personal conduct between the time of their acceptance and matriculation at the University. The University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any reason the University deems sufficient.
Transfer Admission Policy
The Biomedical Sciences program does not accept transfer credits.
College of Osteopathic Medicine
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
Academic Requirements
The minimum academic requirements for admission to the first-year COM class are:
- Completion of the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) within three years prior to the matriculation date.
- Applicants applying through KCU’s Partner Program are not required to take the MCAT exam.
- A baccalaureate degree earned from a regionally accredited college or University.
- Exceptions are only made for those students accepted through our Partner Program.
- Satisfactory completion, with a grade of C or higher, of the following college courses, including laboratory work:
- Biochemistry: 3 semester hours (4.5 quarter hours)
- Biological Sciences: 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours)
- Chemistry: 13 semester hours (19.5 quarter hours)
- Physics: 8 semester hours (12 quarter hours)
- TOTAL: 36 semester hours (54 quarter hours)
Substitutions or Waiver of Admissions Requirements
Prerequisite course substitutions are permitted in some situations. An applicant may request substitution of undergraduate coursework for KCU’s prerequisites by forwarding the following to the Office of Admissions:
- A letter describing the rationale for the request
- One or more of the following supporting documents:
- A faculty letter detailing course content.
- A copy of the course description from the university catalog.
- A copy of the course syllabus.
Applicants will be notified of decisions upon review of course content. Please note that if a substitution is granted, the substituted course will not be counted toward the fulfillment of any other prerequisite.
Admissions Partner Programs
KCU has developed partner programs with select educational institutions that have exceptional premedical programs. The Partner Program sequence requires:
- Petition to participate through the Partner Program’s undergraduate pre-health advisor
- a minimum ACT score of 24
- the completion of all medical school prerequisites in the first three years of matriculation (minimum of 90 semester or 135 quarter credits)
- a cumulative grade point average of 3.25
- A minimum 3.5 science GPA
Students must maintain the GPAs listed above in order to matriculate at KCU.
Application Process
Step 1: Application
American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine Application Service (AACOMAS) is a web-based application for individuals seeking admission to colleges of osteopathic medicine. All applicants must use the AACOMAS portal to apply for admission at KCU.
The AACOMAS application is open May through March every year. For example, students may submit applications as early as May 2023 for a Fall 2024 start date. All application materials, including detailed instructions, can be accessed through the AACOM website, www.aacom.org.
AACOMAS gathers all the necessary material about each applicant and transmits the information in a standardized format to the college of osteopathic medicine selected by the applicant.
KCU conducts an initial review of the transmitted AACOMAS application, MCAT scores and academic records to determine which applications will be further processed. Applicants are encouraged to include the scheduled MCAT test dates on the AACOMAS application to indicate the intent of taking or retaking the exam.
Step 2: KCU-COM Secondary Application
Applicants who are considered a good fit for the program will be invited to complete the KCU-COM Secondary Application. Requirements for each incoming year can be found here. ($60 nonrefundable fee waived if applicant has received fee waiver for AACOMAS fees.)
Application Schedule
Applicants are encouraged to begin the application process a year prior to matriculation. The following represents a monthly guide for application preparation.
May - June
- Contact all colleges and universities attended and have official transcripts forwarded directly from the education institution to AACOMAS.
- Complete AACOMAS application.
July
- Invitations for completion of the Secondary Application are sent to qualified applicants upon receipt of the AACOMAS application.
August - March
- KCU conducts personal interviews with selected applicants.
March 1
- AACOMAS application deadline. Secondary applications are accepted and processed until all interview positions have been filled.
KCU offers rolling admissions. Conditional acceptances begin going out in October.
Applicant Review & Notification
The major criteria for rating applicants include academic excellence and nonacademic achievements. Academic excellence is measured by an assessment of the results of the MCAT, grades and grade point averages. Nonacademic achievements also are considered, as well as a candidate’s ability and desire to fulfill the mission of the University. The Admissions Committee looks for the following nonacademic achievements:
- Leadership roles
- Involvement in community organizations/projects
- Involvement in research activities
- Commitment to an organization(s) for more than two years
- Participation in a domestic/international mission trip
- Experience in the medical field (e.g., EMT, nurse)
- Medical field volunteer experiences
- Shadowing of an osteopathic or allopathic physician
Following the above assessment, selected applicants are invited for a formal personal interview. Interviews are opportunities for applicants to demonstrate professionalism, critical thinking, and high level communication skills.
After the interview, the Admissions Committee reviews the applicant’s file and then makes recommendations to the campus dean of COM for consideration. Applicants are notified as soon as a final admission decision has been made.
Matriculation Requirements
Deposits
An acceptance deposit and a matriculation deposit are required from admitted applicants. (See COM Tuition & Fees ) Acceptance is conditional until all fees, paperwork, and coursework is completed. Failure to submit all documents and forms by the posted due dates will result in forfeiture of seat in the upcoming class. Acceptance and matriculation deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable to another program. Students who pay the deposit(s) but do not attend will have their deposit(s) forfeited. For those who pay their deposits and matriculate, the amount will be credited to their tuition.
For VA Students: If VA funding covers the full amount of tuition and mandatory fees to the University for the term, the tuition and fee credit balance on the account will be refunded to the student.
Official Transcripts
All incoming students are required to submit official transcripts from all universities or colleges attended (including dual credit in high school) to the KCU Office of Admissions. Official transcripts submitted to AACOMAS will be downloaded by the Office of Admissions. Applicants only need to submit updated transcripts showing courses that were in progress or showing degree conferred. If you have any questions about which transcripts are due, please email admissions@kansascity.edu. All required coursework is to be completed with a grade of C or better and degree completion be verified no later than July 1 of the matriculation year, unless granted an extension by the Office of Admissions.
Criminal Background Check
Prior to matriculation, all students matriculating into KCU must have a criminal background check performed at their own expense. The background check will be performed by a certifying organization retained by KCU. The purpose of the background check is to satisfy federal and state requirements for individuals participating in clinical activities involving patient care.
Students will be required to pay for an additional background check in select degree programs before starting clinical activities.
Note: Discovery following admission or matriculation of intentional misrepresentation or omission of any information used in the application process will subject the student to disciplinary action, including rescinded admission, probation, suspension, or dismissal. Matriculation will be denied to applicants who have failed to maintain a good record of scholastic performance and/or personal conduct between the time of their acceptance and matriculation at the University. The University reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant for any reason the University deems sufficient.
Immunization & Health Requirements
Students who project themselves as future health care professionals are obligated to protect their health and the health of their future patients. All matriculating students at KCU are required to be vaccinated in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) immunization guidelines. These guidelines change and are updated periodically, and applicants and students are expected to be knowledgeable regarding the current CDC guidelines for health care workers found on their website: www.cdc.gov. KCU students are responsible for maintaining a current and thoroughly documented official record of immunizations at all times. More information is available online.
Students who fail to meet these guidelines will not be allowed to matriculate or may jeopardize their eligibility for continued enrollment.
Required Textbooks
The lists of required textbooks for students are posted on the library website. Students are responsible for purchasing and having all textbooks or e-books on the provided lists.
Medical Equipment
Students are required to have certain medical equipment when starting medical school. Information is sent from the Office of Admissions to students prior to matriculation concerning specific equipment and pricing. Medical equipment can be purchased through the KCU Campus Store.
COM Transfer Admission Policy
Students enrolled at an AOA-COCA accredited osteopathic medical school may be considered for transfer admission into the second or beginning of the third year of medical studies at KCU upon completion of the equivalent level of medical education as currently structured at KCU and provided that a vacancy exists.
Under no circumstances may a student graduate from KCU-COM without completing a minimum of two terminal years of education at the institution.
Applicants who have been dismissed by another osteopathic medical school are not eligible for transfer. Applicants from international or allopathic institutions or from other health-related professions are not eligible for transfer admission. Such individuals must apply through AACOMAS for admission as a first-year student.
Eligibility Guidelines
- Applicants must be in good academic standing at the osteopathic medical school currently attending (or previously attended in event of a withdrawal) and be eligible for continued enrollment or readmission.
- Applicants interested in transferring to KCU as a third-year medical student must have passed the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX) Level 1.
Requirements
- KCU-COM Secondary Application and fee.
- A personal statement presenting valid and compelling reasons for admission by transfer.
- Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges.
- A letter of evaluation and support from the dean at the current/previous osteopathic medical school.
- Official scores for all MCATs taken.
- Official scores for all COMLEX exams taken (if applicable).
- Documentation including catalog pages and/or course syllabi that demonstrate satisfactory completion of equivalent curricular content at KCU for courses in clinical skills, Osteopathic Principles and Practices (OPP) and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM).
- Two letters of recommendation.
Procedures & Deadlines
- Deadline for receipt of application and fee is Feb. 1 of the year of the proposed matriculation.
- Deadline for receipt of all supporting documentation is March 1 of the year of the proposed matriculation.
- Office of Admissions reviews completed application for minimum admission qualifiers. If minimum qualifiers are met, the Office of Admissions contacts the vice provost to confirm available seat.
- If space is available, the applicant’s curricular content from the other osteopathic school is reviewed by the deans of COM and/or faculty with expertise in the areas of concern to ensure content fulfills the minimum curriculum requirements of KCU-COM and to determine transfer credit equivalents.
- Upon approval by the deans of COM, the documentation is forwarded to the Office of the Registrar for appropriate transfer consideration. Upon official confirmation from the Office of the Registrar regarding all applicable transfer courses, the applicant is invited for a personal interview.
- Interview team observations and applicant file is forwarded to the Admissions Committee for consideration.
- If the Admissions Committee recommends transfer admission, the applicant’s file is forwarded to the appropriate dean of COM for final approval and confirmation of transfer credit equivalents. Transfer credit accepted for COM is posted to the KCU transcript as a semester credit value summary with a transfer GPA, however, transfer credit may not be utilized for the determination of graduation honors.
- Only applications that are complete and received by the advertised deadline will be considered. No exceptions or deadline extensions will be approved. Incomplete applications will be withdrawn from consideration.
- Applicants who submit a completed application for transfer admission will receive written notification of the decision rendered by the appropriate dean of COM from the Office of Admissions.
- Potential transfer students should request application information from KCU’s Office of Admissions, 816.654.7162, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Health & Minimum Technical Standards
All candidates and enrolled medical students must meet health and technical standards to be admitted to, participate in and graduate from the medical education programs of KCU. Applicants are advised to review this policy online.
Reasonable accommodations will be made as required by law; however, the candidate/student must be able to meet all technical standards with or without reasonable accommodation. Please refer to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Requests for accommodations should be directed to the KCU disability services coordinator.
Notice of Health Risks
Student physicians, interacting with patients in hospitals and in clinics, are exposed to a variety of infectious agents. Although universal precautions are required in many of these encounters, the risk of infection is still increased. In order to protect the student physician, and to prevent the spread of disease to patients, student physicians must satisfy the immunization requirements. Refer to the immunization requirements for KCU.
Campus Transfer Appeals
Appeals for a campus transfer are not permitted once a student has been admitted to KCU and prior to matriculating into the program.
After matriculation, KCU does not permit students to transfer between campuses. Students with significant extenuating circumstances may submit an appeal to transfer. Appeals are reviewed by the campus deans on a case-by-case basis. A campus transfer will only be approved prior to the start of the term; mid-semester campus location changes are not permitted.
Students who have withdrawn from KCU and are interested in re-enrolling must follow the processes outlined below. Students who have been dismissed from KCU are not eligible for readmittance.
If a student wishes to return to KCU within 24 calendar months of the date of withdrawal, he/she must submit a petition to the vice provost, Student Services. In order to be considered for readmission, the candidate must provide adequate evidence that the conditions and/or factors that caused the prior withdrawal have changed significantly, so there is reasonable expectation that the applicant can now perform satisfactorily if readmitted.
If a student wishes to return to KCU after the 24-month window, he/she must do so through the Office of Admissions and must follow the same procedure as any new applicant. All readmissions are determined solely at the discretion of the dean.
Candidates who successfully apply for readmission are required to start their respective program as a first-year student. The student’s prior academic record will remain part of his or her overall academic record and will be recorded on the permanent transcript.
Non-U.S. Citizens/International Applicants
An international applicant is an applicant who is not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. KCU requires a student visa (F-1) to study in any KCU program. International applicants must meet all requirements for admission as stated for their program of study. International applicants should use internationaladmissions@kansascity.edu to ask questions regarding their application process.
International applicants who are in pending status for permanent U.S. residency are not eligible for admission.
International applicants whose native language is not English must also demonstrate objective competency in English by one of the following:
- Completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) within two years of the applicants anticipated matriculation date with a minimum score of 79 for the IBT (Internet-Based Testing) and a minimum score of 26 on the speaking component
- Earned bachelors or masters degree from an accredited US college or university or a recognized post-secondary Canadian institution that uses English as its primary language of instruction.
Once a conditional offer of admission is extended, international applicants must provide evidence of:
- The applicant must complete and submit an International Funding Assurance Form and all supporting bank and financial documentation through Workday proving sufficient funding to cover the entire length of the program.
- A clear copy of the passport
A list of accepted liquid assets and approved supporting documents can be found on the KCU website. Once received, the financial documentation is reviewed by the Office of Finance for verification and is subject to approval before the issuance of an I-20 form. Due to processing times, these documents must be received by March 1st. International applicants must pay their Acceptance and Matriculation Deposit and have all financial documents approved before the Office of Admissions creates an initial I-20 document for the student or transfers a student’s SEVIS record from their current institution.
International students must make an appointment with a DSO to provide or make copies of their signed I-20, visa, and I-94 before the add/drop period ends for their program.
Previous Attendance at Foreign Institutions
Applicants with college credit at foreign institutions, or institutions teaching in a language other than English, must submit official foreign transcripts to one of the following evaluation services as part of the admissions processes:
Educational Credential Evaluators, Inc.
P.O. Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203-3470
414.289.3400
Josef Silny and Associates
International Education Consultants
7101 SW 102 Avenue
Miami, FL 33171
305.273.1616
www.jsilny.com
World Education Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 745 Old Chelsea Station
New York, NY 10113-0745
212.966.6311
KCU will consider credit from the evaluation report only if the third-party evaluation service has indicated the coursework taken was similar to coursework taken at an institution which is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree (or above) from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.
International students are not eligible to apply for advanced standing or apply transfer credits towards the completion of any program.
International students do not qualify for US federal financial aid, but may be eligible for scholarships.
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