At the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford fuses world-class research with a startup-driven culture. It is a primary feeder of talent and ideas into the global technology industry.
What is the acceptance rate at Stanford University?
Stanford University admits approximately 3.9% of applicants, making it "Highly Selective" in our directory.
How much does Stanford University cost per year?
Tuition is approximately 58,416 USD per year before aid. See the Tuition tab for a full cost-of-attendance breakdown.
Does Stanford University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes — Stanford University offers Knight-Hennessy Scholars, Need-based Grants, and about 64% of students receive some form of financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Stanford University?
The application deadline is Jan 02. We recommend submitting all materials at least two weeks ahead of that date.
What can I study at Stanford University?
Stanford University offers 5 broad fields of study: Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Medicine, Social Sciences.
How big are classes at Stanford University?
The average class size is 14 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, across a medium campus of about 17,680 students.
Stanford University
🇺🇸 Stanford, CA, United States · USA
#5
Global Ranking
Detailed admissions profile compiled by UniPath on June 24, 2026. Figures are directory estimates intended for planning purposes — always confirm exact requirements and costs with the official admissions office at https://www.stanford.edu.
At a Glance
Established
1885
Student Population
17,680
Faculty Ratio
5:1
Average Class Size
14
Acceptance Rate
3.9%
Annual Tuition
$58,416
Financial Aid Recipients
64%
Application Deadline
Jan 02
Website
https://www.stanford.edu
About Stanford University
At the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford fuses world-class research with a startup-driven culture. It is a primary feeder of talent and ideas into the global technology industry.
Highly competitive admissions mean a tightly selected, high-achieving peer group.
Generous aid — 64% of students receive financial support.
Small average class size (14 students) for close faculty access.
A strong STEM focus across its core programs.
An active, well-funded research culture.
Admissions — Highly Selective
With only 3.9% of applicants admitted, every part of the application needs to be deliberate — academics, essays, and activities all carry weight.
This school is more selective than approximately 95% of schools in our directory, ranks better than 98% of them, and is more affordable than 12% (out of 172 schools compared).
Typical requirements:
Completed online application
Official academic transcripts
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) for non-native speakers
3 letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors
Personal statement plus 2+ supplemental essays
Standardized test scores (optional at many schools, but top-decile scores strengthen the file)
Demonstrated depth in 1-2 extracurriculars rather than breadth across many
Test-optional, but admitted students who submit scores typically land in the 90th percentile or above.
Cost of Attendance (Estimated, per year)
Tuition
$58,416
Housing & Living
$20,446
Books & Supplies
$2,337
Personal Expenses
$4,673
Total Cost of Attendance
$85,872
Est. Average Grant / Aid
- $22,432
Est. Net Price
$35,984
4-Year Total (before aid)
$343,488
Estimates for international students; actual aid varies by applicant profile.
Scholarships
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Need-based Grants
Majors & Career Outcomes
Computer Science — $95,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Software Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Security Analyst, Data Scientist
Engineering — $72,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Design Engineer, Project Manager, R&D Specialist, Systems Engineer
Business — $65,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Management Consultant, Entrepreneur
Medicine — $80,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Physician, Surgeon, Nurse Practitioner, Pharmacist
Social Sciences — $54,000 avg. starting salary
Common careers: Policy Analyst, Economist, Counselor, HR Specialist
Campus Life
Sun-soaked 8,000-acre campus with a strong sports tradition and deep entrepreneurial energy.
Suggested Application Timeline
12+ weeks before: Request transcripts and letters of recommendation; start drafting your personal statement.
8 weeks before: Finalize essays, gather standardized test scores, and complete the online application form.
4 weeks before: Submit early — leave buffer time for technical issues or late-arriving documents.
Jan 02 — deadline: Hard deadline. All materials must be received by the admissions office.
After submitting: Track your applicant portal and respond promptly to any requests for more information.
Similar Universities to Consider
School
Rank
Tuition
Acceptance
Harvard University
#3
$56,550
3.4%
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
#1
$57,590
4%
California Institute of Technology
#10
$60,864
3%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Stanford University?
Stanford University admits approximately 3.9% of applicants, making it "Highly Selective" in our directory.
How much does Stanford University cost per year?
Tuition is approximately 58,416 USD per year before aid. See the Tuition tab for a full cost-of-attendance breakdown.
Does Stanford University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes — Stanford University offers Knight-Hennessy Scholars, Need-based Grants, and about 64% of students receive some form of financial aid.
When is the application deadline for Stanford University?
The application deadline is Jan 02. We recommend submitting all materials at least two weeks ahead of that date.
What can I study at Stanford University?
Stanford University offers 5 broad fields of study: Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Medicine, Social Sciences.
How big are classes at Stanford University?
The average class size is 14 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, across a medium campus of about 17,680 students.