Stanford University- What you need to know

Stanford University has a worldwide reputation that attracts thousands of applications from all over the globe every year. Students are drawn to it because of its exceptional education, entrepreneurial spirit, and incredible post-graduation opportunities.  Stanford seeks well-rounded applicants who can demonstrate their passion for learning, creativity, and academic excellence. The university emphasises the importance of intellectual vitality along with other critical admissions elements. Whatever draws you to Stanford, this blog will help you learn more about the university and whether it’s the right fit for you.

Overview

Stanford University is a private research university located in Stanford, California, at the heart of Silicon Valley. Established in 1885, Stanford is younger than many Ivy League schools, but it matches — and even surpasses — them in prestige, academic excellence, and innovation.

Location

Stanford’s sprawling 8,180-acre campus is located between San Francisco and San Jose, with easy access to the Pacific Ocean. Its proximity to the Bay Area offers students countless cultural, recreational, and career opportunities, while San Francisco International Airport ensures convenient travel for students coming from overseas or other parts of the US.

Student Cohort

Stanford University continues to uphold its reputation as a leading institution, attracting a diverse and talented student body. As of Autumn Quarter 2024, the university enrolled approximately 17,469 degree-seeking students, comprising 7,554 undergraduates and 9,915 graduate students. Stanford Facts

​The undergraduate cohort reflects significant diversity, with international students accounting for 13% of the population. While specific data on the largest non-U.S. populations are not detailed in the available sources, the overall international presence contributes to a rich tapestry of cultural perspectives on campus.​

This diversity fosters an environment where students engage with fresh perspectives, enhancing their critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership skills. While Stanford’s academic rigor is on par with Ivy League institutions, the campus vibe reflects a more relaxed, California-style culture.​

Admissions

• Acceptance Rate: Stanford is one of the most selective universities in the US, with an acceptance rate of around 3.9% for the class of 2028. Out of over 53,733 applicants, only 2,099 were admitted.

• GPA Requirements: For the class of 2028, 75% of admitted students had a GPA above 4.0, and 94% had a GPA above 3.75, reflecting Stanford’s ability to attract the brightest and most dedicated students.
• Types of Admission: Stanford offers two admission plans: Restrictive Early Action (REA) and Regular Decision (RD). REA is non-binding, but students cannot apply to other private universities’ early programs (though public universities with non-binding Early Action are allowed). The REA deadline is November 1st, while the RD deadline is January 5th.
• Application Requirements: Stanford uses the Common App. Applicants must submit transcripts, test scores, two teacher recommendations, a counselor recommendation, three short essays (up to 250 words each), and several short-answer questions (up to 50 words each).

Academics

Stanford offers nearly 70 undergraduate majors across its three degree-granting schools: the School of Humanities and Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability. Students must complete at least 180 units, which include major courses, writing and rhetoric requirements, one year of a foreign language, and the Ways of Thinking / Ways of Doing general education curriculum — 11 courses spanning 8 interdisciplinary categories.

A standout feature is Stanford’s Introductory Seminars, offering over 200 small-group courses across all seven Stanford colleges, exclusively for first-year students.

Standout Majors: Stanford excels in engineering, computer science, and business. Its computer science program is among the most respected globally. One particularly unique major is Symbolic Systems, blending computer science, linguistics, mathematics, philosophy, psychology, and statistics to explore human-computer interactions.

Faculty/Student Ratio: With a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, around 70% of Stanford’s classes have fewer than 20 students, allowing for personalized attention and close professor-student engagement.

Graduation Rates: Stanford boasts a four-year completion rate of about 72% and a six-year rate of around 94%, exceeding the national average.

Seven Schools

Stanford is home to seven schools, each contributing to its interdisciplinary and dynamic academic environment:

School of Humanities and Sciences: The largest school, offering a broad range of disciplines from biology to philosophy, fostering a strong liberal arts foundation.

School of Engineering: Renowned for cutting-edge programs in computer science, electrical engineering, and bioengineering, driving innovation in Silicon Valley and beyond.

Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability: Focused on environmental science, climate change solutions, and sustainable development, positioning Stanford as a leader in tackling global challenges.

Graduate School of Business: One of the top business schools globally, known for its MBA and leadership development programs.

School of Law: A highly respected law school producing influential legal scholars and practitioners.

School of Medicine: A pioneer in biomedical research and clinical training, contributing to advancements in healthcare.

Graduate School of Education: Preparing educators and researchers to transform education systems worldwide.

Cost of Attending

The total cost of attending Stanford approaches $87,833 annually for the year 2024-25 covering tuition, room and board, books, and other expenses. Stanford is need-blind for US applicants — meaning admissions decisions are made without regard to financial circumstances — but the same does not apply to international students and they must declare their intent to apply for need-based aid during the application process.

Final Thoughts

Stanford University is more than a world-class institution — it’s a hub of innovation, academic excellence, and personal growth. Since its founding in 1885, Stanford has continuously reinvested in its programs and students, maintaining its reputation as one of the best universities globally. Stanford looks for dynamic students who can showcase academic prowess and depth in extracurriculars. This enables them to understand the character of the student and the potential they hold to contribute to the vibrant community at Stanford.

Navigating college admissions can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Ivy Central offers expert guidance to help you prepare for Stanford — or any top university — starting from your high school years. Let’s build your future together — start today!