Stanford University Overview

Stanford University is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Stanford, CA. It has an enrollment of 7,645 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 3.95%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $7,200. Tuition is $56,169.00 without financial aid.

Stanford University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Stanford University, 98.26% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Stanford University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 5 to 1.

Stanford University Website

Stanford University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 3.95%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1528.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 35.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Stanford University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $7,200.

The average tuition is:

• -$1,975, when family income is less than $30,000

• -$4,196, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• -$1,270, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $9,562, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $42,108, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 4.30% of students received a federal student loan and 19.15% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $56,169.00 without financial aid.

Stanford University Net Price Calculator

Stanford University Majors/Salaries

Stanford University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Stanford University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Area Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $57,318
• Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,133
• Communication and Media Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $81,702
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $136,499
• Computer Science. (Master’s Degree) – $168,942
• Education, General. (Master’s Degree) – $64,196
• Education, General. (Doctoral Degree) – $101,964
• Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $90,856
• Chemical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $91,744
• Chemical Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $99,517
• Civil Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $80,276
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $84,653
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $135,709
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Doctoral Degree) – $150,874
• Mechanical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $78,343
• Mechanical Engineering. (Master’s Degree) – $111,435
• Mechanical Engineering. (Doctoral Degree) – $150,874
• Engineering, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,995
• Engineering-Related Fields. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $92,632
• Engineering-Related Fields. (Master’s Degree) – $106,421
• Law. (First Professional Degree) – $170,457
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,649
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Applied Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $97,071
• Science, Technology and Society. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $80,779
• Cognitive Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $92,632
• Human Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,526
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,368
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $85,391
• International Relations and National Security Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $58,221
• International Relations and National Security Studies. (Master’s Degree) – $78,114
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,927
• Music. (Master’s Degree) – $122,038
• Medicine. (First Professional Degree) – $67,748
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $163,337
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,925

Stanford University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Stanford University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.88%
• Asian: 25.08%
• Black: 7.16%
• Hispanic: 17.51%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.27%
• Non-resident alien: 10.70%
• Two or more races: 10.18%
• Unknown: 0.25%
• White: 27.98%

At Stanford University, 1.57% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Stanford University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Stanford University?

Stanford University has a very strong school spirit. Students, alumni, faculty, and staff are all very proud of Stanford’s academic and athletic achievements, which are many. The university has a variety of traditions that foster a sense of community and pride in the university, such as the “Big Game” against rival UC Berkeley, the annual Viennese Ball, and the “Full Moon on the Quad” event. The university is also home to an impressive array of sports teams, and students enthusiastically support them through the “Stanford Band” and other cheering groups. Additionally, Stanford’s beautiful campus, rich history, and notable alumni, including former U.S. presidents and Nobel laureates, add to the pride and spirit of the Stanford community.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Stanford University?

Stanford University offers a range of extracurricular activities for its students. Some popular extracurriculars at Stanford are: 1. Stanford Daily: One of the most popular extracurricular activities at Stanford is the Stanford Daily. It is the university’s student-run newspaper that covers campus news, sports, and features. 2. Student Government: Stanford students are offered many opportunities to get involved in student government. The Associated Students of Stanford University (ASSU) is the primary student government organization on campus and oversees many student groups and activities. 3. Performing Arts: Stanford has a thriving performing arts scene, including theater, music, and dance. The Department of Theater and Performance Studies offers many opportunities for students to act, direct, and produce shows. 4. Athletics: Stanford has a highly competitive athletics program, with many varsity sports teams competing in the Pac-12 conference. In addition, there are many opportunities for students to get involved in club sports and recreational activities. 5. Service and Community Engagement: Service and community engagement are also important extracurriculars at Stanford. The Haas Center for Public Service offers many opportunities for students to volunteer and engage with community organizations.

How are the food choices at Stanford University?

Stanford University offers a great variety of dining options for its students, staff, and faculty. There are over 35 dining locations on campus, including cafes, food trucks, and full-service restaurants. The university has a variety of different food options available, ranging from vegetarian and vegan to halal and kosher. In addition to traditional dining hall options, the campus also has many themed dining options, like Mexican, Asian, and Italian cuisine. They source a lot of their food from sustainable sources and local farms. Overall, the food choices at Stanford University are highly rated and provide students with many healthy and delicious options.

Is there Greek life at Stanford University?

Yes, Stanford University has a well-established Greek life with over 35 fraternities and sororities on campus. About 25% of undergraduate students participate in a Greek organization, which often provide opportunities for leadership, community service, and social events. However, it’s important to note that Greek life is not a major aspect of campus culture and many students choose not to participate in it.

What is Stanford University known for?

Stanford University, located in California, is known for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. It is one of the leading research universities in the world and is particularly renowned for its programs in computer science, entrepreneurship, engineering, and sciences. Some of the notable accomplishments of Stanford include the invention of the first successful internet search engine, Google, and numerous advancements in biotechnology, energy and environmental sciences. Additionally, Stanford boasts a highly selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 5%.

What are the most popular school clubs at Stanford University?

There are many popular school clubs and organizations at Stanford University, but some of the most popular include: 1. The Stanford Daily: the student-run newspaper that covers news, sports, and events on campus. 2. The Stanford Speakers Bureau: a group that hosts famous speakers and organizes events open to all students. 3. Stanford Dance Marathon: an annual event that raises money for charity by having dancers dance for 24 hours. 4. Stanford Outdoors: a group that provides opportunities for students to participate in outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking, and camping. 5. Stanford Engineering Society: a group that connects students with professionals in the engineering industry. 6. Stanford Women in Business: a group that advocates for gender equality in the business field and provides opportunities for female students to network and learn. 7. Stanford Robotics Club: a group that designs and builds robots for competitions and fun projects. 8. Stanford Shakespeare Company: a group that puts on Shakespeare plays on campus. 9. Stanford Ski Team: a group that competes in ski races and participates in winter sports. 10. Stanford Sports Analytics Club: a group that uses data analysis to study and improve sporting events.

Is the campus at Stanford University safe?

Yes, Stanford University has a reputation for being a safe, secure campus. It has its own police department that provides 24/7 security and emergency services to students and staff. Additionally, Stanford has implemented several measures to ensure campus safety, such as emergency notification systems, outdoor lighting, and security cameras. The university also offers various resources for students, including self-defense classes and safety escorts, to enhance personal safety while on campus.