Founded in 1885, Stanford University. is a Private college. Located in California, which is a city setting in California, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 7,034 full time undergraduate students, and 10,150 full time graduate students.
The Stanford University Academic calendar runs on a Quarter basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 10:1. There are 1089 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Stanford University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
4%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
90
SAT Range
1380-1580
ACT Range
31-35
Admissions at are considered Most Selective, with ,96% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 4 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
100% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 99% were in the top quarter, and 94% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Stanford University.
3%
“We”re apathetic”
26%
“We know about current events and vote”
49%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
22%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
8%
“Sometimes, but not often”
37%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
52%
“All the time, including weekends”
3%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
12%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
85%
“I feel extremely safe”
10%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
40%
“We bought the gear”
51%
“We live for the big game”
4%
“It”s not really our thing”
17%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
53%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
26%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
10%
“Available in class”
52%
“They keep regular office hours”
36%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
53%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
42%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
3%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
4%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
22%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
51%
“We only party on weekends”
22%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
14%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
55%
“There might be people who do”
27%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
4%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
3%
“We”re apathetic”
26%
“We know about current events and vote”
49%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
22%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
8%
“Sometimes, but not often”
37%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
52%
“All the time, including weekends”
3%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
12%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
85%
“I feel extremely safe”
10%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
40%
“We bought the gear”
51%
“We live for the big game”
4%
“It”s not really our thing”
17%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
53%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
26%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
10%
“Available in class”
52%
“They keep regular office hours”
36%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
53%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
42%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
3%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
136 Students rated on-campus housing 4.4 stars. 50 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
91 Students rated off-campus housing 2.4 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
136 Students rated campus food 4 stars. 34 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
138 Students rated campus facilities 4.7 stars. 75 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
136 Students rated class size 4.3 stars. 51 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
137 Students rated school activities 4.6 stars. 70 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
138 Students rated local services 3.9 stars. 31 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
134 Students rated academics 4.3 stars. 60 % gave the school a 5.0.
Stanford University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Stanford University?
49 Students rated Stanford University
Caleb
I attended the Stanford Summer Session and have been accepted as an Undergraduate Student, scheduled to begin my freshman year in August. Stanford is a fantastic university. The astronomically expensive housing in nearby Palo Alto isn't an issue, because due to Stanford's generous financial aid programs, on-campus housing is readily available and affordable. Speaking of Stanford's financial aid, it really is generous; students from all walks of life are guaranteed to get a scholarship that adequately meets their needs and secures them a spot in the fall. Stanford is globally renowned for its academics, so its no surprise that the academic scene (and professors) is top notch. Stanford is relatively small compared to the UC system. For example, UCLA has around 60,000 students, while Stanford keeps the undergraduate population below 8,000. The average class size is relatively small, around 15-20 students, which is why I rate it highly; it facilitates the opportunity for students to forge genuine relationships with their professors. Being a mere half an hour from San Francisco in the north and San Jose to the south, (not to mention beautiful Palo Alto and Menlo Park just outside campus), students will never be without the opportunity to have fun on the weekends. The Caltrain system offers cheap and reliable transportation to these places, too, so there's no need to have a car. With almost 700 clubs on campus, Stanford is definitely not lacking on extracurricular options; and if the party scene is important to you, the small student population means that you will be able to create tight-knit groups of students, so you will always have a group of friends that is down to have fun. Finally, when it comes to sports, Stanford is exceptional in the sports scene. Although the sports scene is definitely separate from the academics scene, there's no shortage of opportunities to engage in athletics; and every year, the "Big Game" between Stanford and UC Berkeley is sure to create excitement on campus and rally every student together to cheer for The Cardinals. Stanford is a fantastic university that offers students with a nice balance of exceptional academics and the opportunity to enjoy your college experience.
Winnie
vibrant and fun student culture, intellectually diverse and rigorous environment, friendly people and clubs but very suburban/boring local area. campus and the weather is beautiful and you are surrounded by passionate, smart, and curious peers. on-campus housing is hit-or-miss depending on where you apply to live.
Parshv
Stanford University, to me, embodies the intersection of innovation, collaboration, and purpose. Its reputation as a hub for groundbreaking research and transformative ideas reflects its commitment to fostering a culture where curiosity meets impact. As someone passionate about data science, I am inspired by Stanford’s interdisciplinary approach, where technology, humanities, and entrepreneurship meet together to solve complex global challenges. Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford also bridges academia with industry, offering unparalleled opportunities to work on projects with real-world applications. It offers an open exchange of knowledge among students and faculty. I view Stanford not just as a university but as an ideal.
Zayna
Stanford University is my absolute favorite university, and for good reason! The range of majors offered is truly impressive, catering to a variety of interests and passions. Whether you’re drawn to engineering, humanities, or the sciences, there’s something for everyone. This flexibility allows students to explore their interests and discover new paths.
Beyond academics, the campus itself is breathtaking. With its iconic red-tiled roofs, beautiful architecture, and lush green landscapes, walking around Stanford feels like being in a dream. The views are stunning, whether you’re gazing at the rolling hills or enjoying the serene atmosphere of the quad. It creates an inspiring environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
Moreover, Stanford’s location in Silicon Valley means students have unparalleled access to tech companies, internships, and networking opportunities. This connection to the industry enhances the educational experience and prepares students for successful careers.
What I love most is the vibrant campus life. The community is diverse and inclusive, with countless clubs and activities that encourage personal growth and connection. Being surrounded by motivated and passionate peers is incredibly energizing.
In short, Stanford is not just a university; it’s a place where dreams can take flight. The combination of academic excellence, stunning surroundings, and a lively community makes it the perfect environment for aspiring students like me. I can't help but be in awe of everything it offers!
David
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Stanford University. I found a broad range of students there who were bringing very different perspectives and life experiences to the table. The professors were often leaders in their field. The amenities and facilities left nothing to be desired. Was there a downside? Yes, being surrounded by such high achievers can make the experience a pressure-cooker. It's worth taking the time while on campus to take care of your own personal happiness, because otherwise you might find yourself chasing prestige.
Zoe
Stanford is one of the best college experiences to be had. Academically and socially, the environment is warm, intellectually stimulating, growth-promoting, safe, and exciting. The campus is beautiful with incredible facilities, housing options, campus eating options, and research, recreational, club, and social opportunities to suit everyone's interests.
Nicolas
Stanford University is a special place because of the people you meet. There are incredible stories to be heard from every single student on this campus, so it is a truly amazing experience to work and learn alongside them. Furthermore, there is an extensive list of student-led clubs and gatherings, all consequence of the students' proactiveness.
Serah
its a nice school the stafdnjgvkdjvdjvdgcmngbkfnbkcnkcnvbfnbnfknbkfnbkfg,dvinKLNGKVldnfkbnfkcls zbnbkfnbfnb m bfnbklfnbklfnbklfnkbnfkbnkfnbklf bkfnbkvnbfknbfbmfnkbnfkb fknbfnbkfnbk fn bkfn lb mf bmfnkbfm bf bmf bf bjfbnkf bmfnkdcmvb;d bfmbkfnbkf,b fnbkf bfbnfb fbf mbnklf bnfnb
Justin
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Hailee
Stanford is definitely a special place. Although some professors are much better at researching their subject than they are at teaching it, I did have a handful of great professors who I felt were dedicated to helping me learn. There are a lot of super wealthy people at Stanford but there are also students from the middle class and lower class. Spring quarter is super fun at Stanford!
Koichiro
One of the best schools in the country, with nice, intelligent people everywhere. The dorms were moderately spacious and very clean. The campus atmosphere was lively, welcoming, and overall amazing. The food was superb and the classrooms were very beautiful, not to mention the giant church on campus.
ali
i think that Stanford is a great place because of the diversity of the students and the kind teachers. It's my dream school. It believes that diversity is part of learning. Students from different cultural backgrounds are admitted to the University. Stanford provides platform for research. As I visited, I came to know there are every resources available for one to make his career and even teachers are exceptionally amazing.
Ishaq
It's my dream school. It believes to that diversity is part of learning. Bright Students from different cultural backgrounds are admitted to the University. Stanford provides huge platform for research. As I visited, I came to know there are every resources available for one to make his career and even teachers are exceptionally amazing.
Akwesi
Great place that ranks top 5 for what I’d like to be when I grow up( Business, Entrepreneurship, Pre-Med ). Also their football team led by David Shaw is a team that I dream of one day being able to play for. They’ve had multiple role models that I look up to and deeply revere such as Christian McCaffrey and Bryce Love. Great student athletes like them is what drives me to want to be successful on the the field and in the classroom.
Jordan
Ok... I am only a freshman but from what I have experienced, this place is amazing. You might get lost in the "bubble" as they say of being shielded from the outside world but Stanford does a really good job of keeping it real. The party scene isn't the greatest but it's there on the weekends and if you really search you could find something happening on campus almost every night. The food is amazing (for example tonight for dinner, there was sirloin steak and and fish). For sure though this place is not for everyone, most of the people here are quirky and smart and if you aren't into that it might not be your place but you are missing out on some really awesome people. Most of them I could actually see making a difference in the world and you might just know them when they are famous. but that isn't the big idea of why most people like this school. It really pushes you to the edge and pretty much drives you to failure but in the end leads you to succeed. The best people didn't learn by succeeding every time and that's what I like about it here. It challenges your values, your beliefs, your intelligence, every part of you...but it's all to form you into a better version of you.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Stanford University is 4%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
I always imagined what the world would be like if my great-grandmother was alive. She was born and raised in North Carolina: it was her home, her vestige, the special memento she kept in her back pocket. She would always pull it out to reflect on a memory or piece of advice before we left for a big trip. I liked that about her. I always imagined what she’d say before I left for college. I imagined it like this: We’re sitting on our front porch in Pendleton, North Carolina and she says, “Gal, if there is one thing you should remember before college, it’s this: Stay away from the moonshine. Yes, the moonshine. All those mixtures, colors, and flavors ain’t nothing but a way for you to start tipping, dragging and falling all the way home. And before you start tipping and dragging, remember, them men will follow after you and a lot of 'em won’t be nice.” I’d like to think what she was alluding to was college depredation. I knew that was just her way of keeping me safe. It's also the thing I'd tell my college self.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
My favorite aspect of life at Stanford is certainly the open-mindedness, especially with respect to the vibrant diversity that exists on campus. There are limitless opportunities at Stanford for all individuals to express themselves, regardless of race, heritage, religious ideals, political affiliations, or any other personal identifications that otherwise create barriers between students. Upon initially acquainting myself with current students during Admit Weekend when I was a high school senior, I found that they were extremely open to learn more about and understand the perspectives of their diverse peers. I appreciate that everyone is incredbly welcoming, accepting, and warmhearted.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
Stanford gathers the world's best students and professors, unique in their own ways, and puts them together on a beautiful, sunny campus to cooperate to make amazing opportunities and results.
The best thing about this campus, besides the beautiful weather and scenery, are the people. Everyone from students to professors is very driven and a pleasure to talk to and work with.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
Social life is friday and saturday night when people start drinking at 10 go out to a frat party and home paired up with some other loser by 12:30 or else just giving up on the night. Partying is self-medication not something to enjoy for it's own sake
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
That everyone seems to be doing fine in classes, etc. -- which makes me feel like I'm the only one who is not doing so well. I know it's not true though, it's called the "Stanford Duck Syndrome". People are really good at hiding what's going wrong in their lives and putting on a faccade that everything is okay.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
People who are interested in nourishing the life of the mind won't like Stanford very much. It's an academic school, but most of the academics seem targeted towards career placement or some other utilitarian goal. Learning for the sake of learning is pretty rare.
I chose Stanford because I felt like I was at home when I first stepped on its campus. With its great academic departments and gorgeous weather, Stanford was undoubtedly the right choice. The people there are amazingly friendly and welcoming. I had no problem making friends with students, including upperclassmen.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
A few stereotypes that I've heard about Stanford students are those imposed upon most Ivy Leaguers (note: Stanford is not technically an Ivy League school): namely, that we're all privileged white kids, with a substantial amount of us intent on being at the top of the pack (think: cut throat competition).
Here's the run-down: there's almost always a kernel of truth to any stereotype, but luckily for Stanford (and me!), in this case it's only a small kernel.
Being an international student myself who grew up in the Middle East, I can attest to the diversity of the Stanford population. The caveat - if you read the "official" calculation of Stanford's population - is that Stanford counts "Americanized" international students as "international" - i.e if grew up in the US with foreign parents you are considered international. I find that definition a bit of a stretch. However, regardless of your views of what constitutes international, there's a fair amount of people who grew up overseas at Stanford. Additionally, Stanford boasts itself on being one of the top colleges for students of color and those of latino/a origin (see this page for more info: http://admission.stanford.edu/student/diversity/index.html)
In terms of relative wealth, there are many privileged kids at Stanford, but not that privileged. Case in point: most Stanford students don't have a car (though that's partly out of convenience as well). Students commonly complain about the expense of food in Palo Alto. Additionally, I would say around 20-30{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the student population has a part time job to support themselves.
Last, let's talk about competition: My favorite part about Stanford is the lack of competition among students in most undergraduate departments. I say MOST rather than all, since my major is Sociology with a minor in philosophy (i.e I'm familiar with the humanities and social sciences). Based on what my friends in the more technical fields tell me, there isn't that much morale-killing competition in their departments either. I think part of that is West Coast culture, and part of that is purely Stanford culture. My brother went to Harvard and his characterization of their student population has led me to believe that Stanford is more collaborative than competitive compared to other top schools in the nation.
Where is the best place to get work done on campus?
Most people I know go to either Green Library or Meyer Library. The outdoor Cafe's are also popular spots to study. For me, the best place to get work done is anywhere that isn't my room! Honestly, if you work better in a quiet place you'll find it. If you work better in a noisy place, there are those too.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
66% of students attending Stanford University receive some sort of financial aid.
13% were awarded federal grants.9%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
