Placement Metric
Highest Package
N/A
Represents the top salary package reported in the available placement information.
Stanford University
8.4(4)
VerifiedPrivate (Not for Profit)Estd. 1885
Founded
1885
Type
Private (Not for Profit)
University Guide
About Stanford University
Explore overview, courses, fees, admissions, campus life, scholarships and student accommodation guidance in one premium Admistay guide.
Stanford University is a private research university located in Stanford, California, United States. Founded in 1885, the university is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading institutions for technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship.
- Stanford is located in the heart of Silicon Valley and has played a major role in the development of companies such as Google, NVIDIA, and Yahoo.
- The university enrols approximately 17,000 students across seven schools and offers over 150 graduate fields of study.
- Stanford University is extremely selective, with an undergraduate acceptance rate of around 3.6%.
- Popular programs among international students include Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Economics, and the Stanford GSB MBA.
For Indian students, the total cost of studying at Stanford typically ranges between ₹85–95 lakh per year including tuition and living expenses.
This guide covers Stanford University fees, acceptance rate, rankings, courses, requirements, and deadlines for international and Indian applicants.
Check courses offered at Stanford
INR conversion used in this page: ₹90.78 per $1 (planning rate).
Table of Contents
- Stanford University Highlights 2026–27 (Quick Facts)
- Stanford University Fees for Indian Students 2026
- Stanford University Graduate Courses & Fees
- Stanford University Undergraduate Courses & Fees
- Stanford University Acceptance Rate 2026
- Stanford University Application Deadlines 2026–2027
- Stanford University Ranking in the World and USA 2026
- Stanford University Admission Requirements 2026 for Indian Students
- Stanford University MS Requirements
- Stanford University UG Requirements
- Stanford University MBA Requirements
- Stanford University Cost of Living
- Stanford University Campus
- Stanford University Scholarships 2026
- Stanford University Placements
- Stanford University FAQs for International & Indian Students
Stanford University Highlights 2026–27 (Quick Facts)
| Key Parameter | Stanford University Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Stanford, California (Silicon Valley, near Palo Alto), USA |
| Founded | 1885 |
| Type | Private Research University |
| Total Students | ~17,000 |
| Acceptance Rate | ~3.6% |
| QS Ranking 2026 | #3 globally |
| UG Deadlines (Fall 2027) | REA: Nov 1, 2026 | RD: Jan 5, 2027 |
| Campus Size | 8180 acres |
| Popular Programs | MS CS, Engineering, AI, MBA, Economics |
Stanford is extremely competitive, so admission depends heavily on academic excellence, strong extracurricular impact, research, and essays—not just marks.
Check: Top US Universities for Indian Students in 2026-27
Stanford University Fees for Indian Students 2026
Stanford University is one of the most expensive universities in the US. For Indian students, the realistic annual budget is not just tuition—it also includes housing, insurance, meals, and personal expenses. Click here to check the estimated total cost of studying at Stanford (UG)
Important: Stanford bills tuition quarterly, so Indian students should plan cash flow for 3 major payments per year.
Stanford University Graduate Courses & Fees
Stanford graduate tuition is billed per quarter, and most full-time programs run for 3 quarters per academic year (Autumn, Winter, Spring). Tuition-only typically ranges from ~₹60–80 Lakhs/year depending on program (MS vs MBA), excluding living expenses.
| Programs | Annual Tuition (USD) | Approx. Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| MBA (GSB) / MBA Finance | $85,755 | ₹77.67 Lakh |
| LLM (Law School) | $77,454 | ₹70.15 Lakh |
| MS Computer Science | $67,686 | ₹61.30 Lakh |
| MS Electrical Engineering | $67,686 | ₹61.30 Lakh |
| MS Management Science & Engineering | $67,686 | ₹61.30 Lakh |
| MS Mechanical Engineering | $67,686 | ₹61.30 Lakh |
| MS Bioengineering | $67,686 | ₹61.30 Lakh |
| MS Aeronautics & Astronautics | $67,686 | ₹61.30 Lakh |
Living expenses (UG/PG): Most Indian students should budget an additional $45,000–$50,000/year (₹40–45 Lakhs) for housing, food, and insurance in the Bay Area.
Check: Stanford University Fees for Indian Students 2026-27
Stanford University Undergraduate Courses & Fees for Indian Students
Stanford undergraduate tuition is published on Stanford Student Services, and the actual billed total depends on housing, meal plan, insurance, and personal expenses. Start with tuition as the “fixed” anchor.
| Popular UG academic directions (examples) | Tuition basis | 2025–26 tuition (official) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Biological Sciences, Mathematics (apply to the university, choose a major later) | Full-time per quarter | $22,577 per quarter (INR 20.44 Lakhs) |
UG annual tuition estimate (3 quarters): $22,577 × 3 = $67,731
Some of the most popular Stanford University undergraduate courses for Indian students are listed below:
| Programs | Total Annual Fees (INR) | Total Annual Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| BS Computer Science | ₹61.34 Lakh | $67,731 |
| BS Management Science and Engineering | ₹61.34 Lakh | $67,731 |
| BS Mechanical Engineering | ₹61.34 Lakh | $67,731 |
| BS Sustainable Architecture & Engineering | ₹61.34 Lakh | $67,731 |
| BS Computer Science - Artificial Intelligence | ₹61.34 Lakh | $67,731 |
Also Check: Top Engineering Universities in USA
Stanford University Acceptance Rate 2026
Stanford University is among the most selective universities globally. Stanford’s undergraduate acceptance rate has been around 3.6%–3.9% in recent cycles. For Indian students, competition is especially intense due to high application volume in STEM programs like Computer Science and Engineering. Graduate acceptance rates differ by department, and Stanford MBA admissions are also highly selective.
Stanford Acceptance Rate by Program (Estimated)
| Program | Estimated Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (UG) | 3.6%–3.9% |
| MBA (Stanford GSB) | 6%–8% |
| MS Computer Science | Highly selective (varies by department) |
| MS Engineering | Varies by department |
Stanford University SAT/ACT Requirement (2026–2027 Update)
Stanford University has officially reinstated the SAT/ACT requirement for first-year and transfer undergraduate applicants starting Fall 2026, ending its previous test-optional policy. Applicants may self-report scores during application review, with official reports required upon enrollment.
Stanford University Application Deadlines 2026–2027
Stanford University deadlines depend on the program level. Undergraduate deadlines are fixed university-wide, but MS and MBA deadlines vary by department. Indian applicants should shortlist their programs first and then track deadlines carefully. To apply for Fall 2027, you should ideally complete SAT/ACT, SOP, and LOR preparation by June–August 2026.
Stanford Deadlines Snapshot
- UG (Fall 2027): REA Nov 1, 2026 | RD Jan 5, 2027
- MBA (Fall 2027 expected): R1 Sept 2026 | R2 Jan 2027 | R3 Apr 2027
- MS Engineering (Fall 2027): typically Dec 1–15, 2026 (department-wise)
Active Deadlines for 2026 Intakes
As of February 2026, the primary application window for Stanford’s Fall 2026 undergraduate and most graduate programs has closed. Current applicants are now in the "review phase," with decision notifications scheduled for release in early April 2026. For those still looking to apply this year, a few specific windows remain open:
- Stanford GSB MBA (Round 3): The final round for the Autumn 2026 intake.
- Deadline: April 7, 2026 (4:00 PM PT)
- Decision Date: May 28, 2026
- Stanford Summer Session 2026: For visiting students (High School, UG, or Grad).
- Regular Decision/Tuition Grant Deadline: February 13, 2026
- International (I-20 needed) Deadline: April 27, 2026
Fall 2027 Intake
If you missed the 2026 window, your preparation for the Fall 2027 cycle should begin now. The application portals typically open in August/September 2026.
| Program Level | Application Opens | Early Deadline (REA/R1) | Regular Deadline (RD/R2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | August 2026 | Nov 1, 2026 | Jan 5, 2027 |
| Stanford GSB (MBA) | September 2026 | Sept 9, 2026 | Jan 6, 2027 |
| MS (Engineering) | September 2026 | - | Dec 1–15, 2026 |
Stanford UG has fixed university-wide dates. Stanford PG deadlines must be tracked department-by-department. Shortlist 3–5 target programs first, then build a deadline tracker..
Stanford University Ranking in the World and USA 2026
Stanford University is consistently ranked among the Top 5 universities in the USA and globally, especially for Computer Science, Engineering, and Business programs.
| Ranking Agency | 2024 Rank | 2025 Rank | 2026 Rank | Trend Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | #5 | #6 | #3 | Significant Rise |
| Times Higher Education (THE) | #2 | #6 | #5 | Stable Top 5 |
| U.S. News & World Report (Global) | #3 | #3 | #3 | Consistent Elite |
Stanford’s global reputation is strongest in Computer Science/AI, Engineering, Business, and interdisciplinary tech-management areas.
- Computer Science & AI: Consistently Top 3 in QS/THE, particularly for AI, Software Engineering, and Human-Computer Interaction.
- Business (GSB): The Stanford MBA is ranked among the top programs globally and was placed #1 by QS in the 2025/2026 rankings.
- Engineering & Technology: Holds the #2 or #3 spot across all major tables, with specific dominance in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.
Check the detailed rankings of Stanford University and ranking trends
Stanford University Admission Requirements 2026 for Indian Students
Stanford University’s admission process is defined by its extreme selectivity and a holistic review system that looks beyond "perfect" numbers to find students with exceptional "Intellectual Vitality." Check Stanford University Admission Process
Stanford University MS Requirements for Indian Students
Unlike undergraduate admissions, Stanford graduate entry is managed by individual departments (e.g., Engineering, GSB, Law). Each has unique prerequisites and timelines.
1. Engineering & Sciences (MS/PhD)
- GPA: Successful candidates typically have a 3.5/4.0 or higher.
- GRE: Required by most departments (e.g., MS&E and Electrical Engineering).
- MS in Computer Science: One of the most competitive globally; requires a strong quantitative background and a clear Research/SOP focus.
- Deadlines: Usually fall between December 1 and January 8 for the following Autumn.
2. Stanford GSB (MBA)
- Selectivity: Highly selective (acceptance rate ~7–8%).
- Experience: Average work experience is 5.3 years, though there is no minimum.
- Testing: Accepts both GMAT and GRE.
- Deadlines: Round 1 (Sept), Round 2 (Jan), and Round 3 (April).
| Category | Admission Requirements |
|---|---|
| Application Form | https://gradadmissions.stanford.edu/apply/apply-now |
| Application Fee | $125 USD (~₹10,400 INR). Note: MBA is $275. |
| Academic Score | 3.5/4.0 GPA is the "competitive" baseline, no hard minimum. Successful Indian applicants typically have 85–90%. |
| TOEFL Score | MS Engineering: 89+ | Humanities/Social Science/Education: 100+ |
| Admission Requirement | A 4-year Bachelor’s is mandatory for most. 3-year degrees from India (B.Com/B.Sc) usually require a completed 2-year Master’s to qualify. |
| Standardized Testing | GRE Quant: 165+ (Engineering prefers higher Quant scores, often 168+) | Verbal: 160+ GMAT: 650+ (720+ - competitive average) |
| Required Documents | Transcripts, LOR - 3 mandatory, Resume/CV: 1–2 pages maximum, SOP |
Historically, Stanford Graduate Admissions only accepted the TOEFL. However, for the Autumn 2026–27 entry, IELTS Academic is now officially listed as an option for graduate programs.
- Minimum Score: 7.0 for admission; 8.0 to be exempt from the Stanford English Placement Test (EPT).
- MS Engineering Note: While the university minimum is 7.0, specific departments (like Computer Science) may still strongly recommend or prefer the TOEFL.
Also Read: Stanford University MS in Computer Science: Fees, Requirements & Deadlines
Stanford University UG Requirements for Indian Students
Stanford uses the Common Application and follows a "holistic" review process. There is no minimum GPA requirement, but admitted students typically have an average unweighted GPA of 3.94–3.96. Stanford’s official first-year page lists these required components for UG applications:
- Common Application
- $100 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver request
- ACT or SAT scores
- School Report + counsellor recommendation
- Official transcript(s)/academic results (+ midyear transcript by Feb 15)
- Two teacher recommendations
Testing detail: Stanford states ACT/SAT scores are required for first-year and transfer applicants, and applicants can self-report scores for application review.
| Category | Admission Requirements |
|---|---|
| Application Form | Common Application (https://www.commonapp.org/) |
| Application Fee | $100 USD (approx. ₹8,400 INR) |
| Academic Score | No minimum GPA; however, the average unweighted GPA of admitted students is 3.94–3.96. |
| TOEFL Score | 100+ |
| Admission Requirement | LOR (2 Teacher + 1 Counselor), 1 Main Personal Statement + Stanford-specific Short Questions |
| Standardized Testing | SAT: Middle 50% range is 1510–1570 | ACT: 34–35 |
| Deadlines | Nov 1 (Restrictive Early Action) | Jan 5 (Regular Decision) |
Stanford University MBA Requirements for Indian Students
The Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) MBA is one of the most selective programs globally. If you missed the January deadline, there is one remaining window for the 2026 intake:
- Round 3 Deadline: April 7, 2026 (4:00 PM PT)
- Decision Notification: May 28, 2026
Admit Status: Round 3 is the most competitive and does not include an "Admit Weekend." International students are generally encouraged to apply in Rounds 1 or 2 to allow ample time for visa processing.
| Category | Requirement / 2026 Profile |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $275 (approx. ₹22,800 INR) |
| Average GMAT (Legacy) | 738 (Range: 560–790) |
| Average GMAT (Focus) | ~695 (Projected equivalent) |
| Average GPA | 3.77 (U.S. 4.0 scale) |
| Work Experience | Average 5.1 years (No minimum required) |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL (100+), IELTS (7.0+), or PTE (68+) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~6% to 8% |
The cost of a Stanford MBA is high, but the ROI is typically strong, with graduates commonly entering high-paying roles in consulting, tech, and finance.
- Annual Tuition: $85,755 (INR 77.6 Lakhs)
Stanford University Student Profile 2025–26
| Parameter | Data |
|---|---|
| Total UG Enrollment | 8,049 |
| Total PG Enrollment | 10,234 |
| Total International Students | 4,351 |
| Indian Students (est.) | ~800–1,000 |
| Overall Graduation Rate | 95% |
| Total Faculty | 4,709 |
| Faculty-to-Student Ratio | 5:1 |
| Male-to-Female Ratio | 0.75 (more female students) |
| UG Applications Received (2024) | 57,326 |
| UG Admission Offers | 2,067 |
| UG Yield Rate | 81.9% |
| Endowment | USD 40.8 Billion (2025) |
| Accreditation | WSCUC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) |
Stanford University Cost of Living
Stanford publishes a standard undergraduate budget for 2025–26 with item-level numbers.
| Cost item (UG standard budget) | 2025–26 amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $67,731 |
| Housing and food | $22,167 |
| Student fees allowance | $2,475 |
| Books and supplies allowance | $840 |
| Personal expenses allowance | $3,300 |
| Total (excluding travel variability) | $96,513 |
| One-time fees for new students | Orientation fee $525; Document fee $250 |
Using ₹90.78 per $1 (planning rate):
- Total UG budget $96,513 ≈ ₹87.6 lakh per year (approx).
Most cost pressure is not tuition alone. The Stanford budget already shows housing/food as a major component, and Bay Area prices make cash-flow planning important (rent deposits, quarter billing, health insurance decisions).
Stanford University Campus
Stanford University’s campus, affectionately known as "The Farm", is one of the largest and most architecturally distinct university campuses in the world. Spanning 8,180 acres in the heart of Silicon Valley, it blends 19th-century Spanish-Colonial heritage with ultra-modern research facilities.
- Stanford University campus is structured with 630 buildings, 150 companies located in the 700-acre Stanford Research Park, and 140 retail stores in the Stanford Shopping Center.
- Some of the campus traditions include the Battle of Bay (football game), Cardinal Nights, The Wacky Walk, and Fountain Hopping.
- There are more than 13,000 bikes, 67 buses, and 41 electric buses in a 23-route system on campus for commuters.
- Accommodation at Stanford University is varied and offers a range of options for students, from traditional dormitory-style housing to apartments, houses, and co-ops.
The flip side—often echoed by students online—is that Palo Alto/Stanford can feel expensive and “bubble-like,” so students who want a dense city life sometimes prefer Berkeley or NYC/Boston schools.
Stanford University Scholarships 2026
Stanford funding is a mix of need-based aid (especially UG) and competitive fellowships (especially graduate).
| Scholarship | Who it’s for | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars | Graduate applicants | Full/near-full funding (varies) | Extremely competitive; leadership-heavy |
| Stanford need-based (UG) | Undergrad | Varies by family income | Policy-led support; check official calculator/policy pages |
Some Stanford funding processes may require an ITIN or SSN at later stages; requirements vary by scholarship type.
Also Check: Stanford University Scholarships for International Students
Stanford has a strong reputation for employability and entrepreneurship. Graduates commonly enter top roles in technology, consulting, finance, research, and startups. Indian students at Stanford typically focus on STEM-designated programs (like MS CS or Engineering) to utilize the 3-year OPT (Optional Practical Training) extension, which significantly improves the chances of H-1B sponsorship.
Stanford University FAQs for International & Indian Students
Ques. How does Stanford University’s quarter system work?
Ans. Stanford operates on a quarter system with three 10-week terms plus an optional summer quarter. This allows students to take more diverse courses throughout the year and provides flexibility for internships or research. However, the pace is faster than traditional semester systems, with shorter but more intensive course periods.
Ques. What is Stanford University's ranking in 2026?
Ans. Stanford University is ranked #3 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, up from #6 in 2025. It is ranked #5 by Times Higher Education (THE) 2026 and #3 by U.S. News & World Report (Global). In the U.S. National Universities category, Stanford ranks #4 by U.S. News 2026.
Ques. What is the total cost of studying at Stanford for Indian students?
Ans. The total annual cost of studying at Stanford for Indian students is approximately:
- UG: ₹87.6 L/year (tuition ₹61.47 L + housing/food ₹20.12 L + other expenses ₹6 L)
- MS (Engineering/CS): ₹92–96 L/year (tuition ₹61.30 L + housing ₹20.10 L + insurance + personal)
- MBA (GSB): ₹1.14–1.15 Cr/year (tuition ₹77.78 L + housing ₹22.51 L + other)
All figures use INR conversion at ₹90.78 per $1 (March 2026).
Ques. What GRE score is required for Stanford MS programs?
Ans. Stanford does not publish a minimum GRE score, but competitive applicants for MS Engineering programs typically have GRE Quant: 165–170 and GRE Verbal: 160+. For MS Computer Science, a Quant score of 168+ is strongly recommended. Some departments (like MS&E) explicitly require GRE scores.
Ques. Does Stanford accept 3-year bachelor's degrees from India?
Ans. Generally, no. Stanford Graduate Admissions requires a 4-year bachelor's degree or its international equivalent. Indian students with a 3-year B.Com, B.Sc., or B.A. typically need to complete a 2-year Master's degree (e.g., M.Com, M.Sc.) to meet Stanford's graduate admission eligibility. Students with a 4-year B.Tech or B.E. are eligible to apply directly.
Ques. What is the Stanford University MS Computer Science fees in INR?
Ans. Stanford MS Computer Science tuition is $67,686/year (≈ ₹61.30 L/year) for the standard 3-quarter academic year. Including housing, food, insurance, and personal expenses, the total annual cost for Indian students is approximately ₹92–96 L/year. The program is typically completed in 1–2 years (3–6 quarters).
Ques. What is the Stanford MBA acceptance rate?
Ans. The Stanford GSB MBA acceptance rate is approximately 6–8%, making it one of the most selective MBA programs in the world. The average GMAT score of admitted students is 738 (legacy) or approximately 695 (GMAT Focus Edition). Average work experience is 5.1 years. Average GPA is 3.77.
Ques. What is the Stanford University acceptance rate for Indian students?
Ans. Stanford does not publish country-specific acceptance rates. The overall UG acceptance rate is 3.6% (Class of 2028). For Indian students, competition is particularly intense in STEM programs (CS, Engineering) due to high application volume. Graduate acceptance rates vary by department — MS CS is highly competitive, while MBA acceptance is approximately 6–8%.
Ques. What is Stanford University's TOEFL requirement?
Ans. Stanford's TOEFL requirements vary by program: MS Engineering: minimum 89 iBT | Humanities/Social Sciences/Education: minimum 100 iBT | MBA (GSB): minimum 100 iBT | UG: minimum 100 iBT. From Autumn 2026–27, Stanford now also officially accepts IELTS Academic with a minimum score of 7.0 for graduate programs (8.0 to waive the English Placement Test).
Ques. Is Stanford University good for Indian students?
Ans. Yes — Stanford is one of the top choices for Indian students, particularly for MS Computer Science, MS Electrical Engineering, MS Management Science & Engineering, and MBA. Stanford's location in Silicon Valley provides unmatched access to tech internships and job placements. Indian students on STEM-designated MS programs qualify for the 3-year OPT extension, significantly improving H-1B sponsorship chances. The main challenge is cost (₹87–96 L/year) and extremely low acceptance rates (3.6% UG, 6–8% MBA).
Ques. What is Stanford University known for?
Ans. Stanford University is globally known for: (1) Computer Science & AI — consistently ranked Top 3 globally; (2) Silicon Valley connections — Google, NVIDIA, Yahoo, and 400+ startups were founded by Stanford alumni or on Stanford research; (3) Stanford GSB MBA — ranked #1 globally by QS 2025/2026; (4) Research output — 6,600+ inventions from federally funded research; (5) Endowment — USD 40.8 Billion (2025), one of the largest university endowments in the world.
Ques. What is Stanford University fees for Indian students in INR?
Ans. Stanford’s total annual cost for Indian students is approximately ₹87–95 Lakhs/year, including tuition, housing, food, and insurance.
Ques. Is Stanford University SAT required for 2026?
Ans. Yes. Stanford has reinstated SAT/ACT requirements starting Fall 2026 for first-year and transfer applicants.
Ques. What is the Stanford University MBA fees?
Ans. Stanford GSB MBA tuition is approximately $85,755 per year (₹77–80 Lakhs), excluding living expenses.
Ques. What is the Stanford University MS Computer Science fees?
Ans. Stanford MS CS tuition is approximately $67,686 per year (₹60–62 Lakhs) for the standard 3-quarter academic year, excluding living expenses.
Ques. Is Stanford University public or private?
Ans. Stanford University is a private research university in California, USA.
Ques. Where is Stanford University located?
Ans. Stanford is located near Palo Alto, California, in the Silicon Valley region.
Ques. What is Stanford University undergraduate tuition per year?
Ans. Stanford UG tuition is billed per quarter; tuition-only for 3 quarters is $67,731/year (≈ ₹61–62 Lakhs).
Ques. What is Stanford University total cost of attendance?
Ans. Stanford’s published UG cost of attendance is $96,513/year (≈ ₹87–90 Lakhs) including tuition, housing, food, and allowances.
Courses & Fees
Compare courses in a cleaner, easier way
Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.
Courses
131
Fee from
₹33,54,294.75
Exams
PTE · TOEFL
Showing 5 of 30 bachelors
Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration4 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageEnglish
Fees
Tuition FeeINR 63.4 L/Yr
Native FeeUSD 67,731 /Yr
Estimated Total₹3233886
Admission Guide
Admission Process
Stanford University admissions open for international students in 3 intakes per year: fall, winter and spring. Majority of the applicants prefer fall intake for admissions which starts in September. Admissions are highly competitive at Stanford University with ~3.91% acceptance rate. The university prefers applicants who demontrate strong academic achievement through high GPA, test scores, and extracurricular involvement. Additionally Stanford University is also Popular among international students for its MBA Program which is taught throug the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Stanford Business School is ranked #1 as per the QS Global MBA Ranking and #23 as per the Financial Times Global MBA Rankings.
To get through Stanford University admissions, you must target a GPA a 3.5 or above for graduate programs. International applicants are encouraged to target a GPA between 3.7-3.9% (93-99%) for better chances of securing graduate admissions at Stanford University. There is no minimum GPA requirement for UG admissions at Stanford. However, a GPA of 4.18 is suggested for Indian students along high test scores (SAT/ACT).
Table of Contents
- Stanford University Top Programs
- Stanford University Acceptance Rate
- Stanford University Graduate Admissions
- Stanford University Master of Business Administration
4.1 Stanford MBA Application Deadlines
4.2 Stanford MBA Class Profile 2026
- Stanford University Undergraduate Admission
- Stanford University Application Deadlines and Decisions
6.1 Undergraduate Admission Deadlines
- Stanford University Selection Criteria
- FAQs
Stanford University Top Programs
Given below are the top Graduate program at Stanford University with their admission requirements for international students:
| Programs | Academic Qualifications | GPA Requirement | Document Checklist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Admission | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 3.77 GPA or 95% (Avg) | 2 LORs Personal Statement (200 words) 2 Essays Short Questions |
| MS in Computer Science | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 3.5/4.0 | SOP 3 LORs Resume Supplemental Application Form |
| MS in Electrical Engineering | Bachelor’s degree in engineering or medicine; or four-year bachelor's degree. | 3.0/4.0 | SOP (1-3 pages) 3 LORs Resume |
| MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering | 4 year Bachelor’s degree | 2.75/4.0 | SOP (1-3 pages or 1000 words) 3 LORs Resume/CV |
| MS in Mechanical Engineering | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 3.0/4.0 | SOP 3 LORs Resume/CV Supplementary Information form |
| MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 2.75/4.0 | 3 LORs SOP Resume/CV Supplementary Application Form |
Stanford University Acceptance Rate
Stanford University acceptance rate is 3.9% as the admissions are highly competitive. For the last year’s admissions, 53,733 applicants applied for Stanford University admissions. Of those, only 2,099 got admitted to the university.
- 270 or 13% of the admitted students were international students.
- Enrolled international students came from 64 countries worldwide. Which means that the university admitted 4 to 5 students from each country.
- The male to female ratio of the admitted students was 46:54.
Stanford University Graduate Admissions
Stanford University offers graduate admissions in more than 200 master's and doctoral level programs offered 7 schools and departments . Nearly 9,300 students are currently enrolled across various graduate programs at Stanford.
Following are the admissions requirements for majority graduate courses:
Application Portal: Stanford Graduate Application
Application Fees: $125 (~₹10.8K)
Admission Requirements:
- 4 year bachelor's degree or 3 year’s bachelors+ 2 years master’s degree
- GPA required: 3.5 GPA (90%)
- 2 Essay questions (500 words)
- Statement of purpose
- 2-3 letter of recommendation
- Resume
- Interview
- TOEFL score of 100+ [IBT]
- Standardized testing:
- GRE- 161 (Quant) & 162 (Verbal)
- GMAT- 650+
Stanford University Master of Business Administration
Admissions to Stanford MBA are conducted in three rounds starting from August through April of the following year. Applications to the MBA program are accepted through the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
The admission requirements for MBA program are as follows:
Application Portal: Stanford Graduate School of Business Application (https://applymbamsx.stanford.edu/apply/)
Application Fees: $275 (₹23,828 INR)
Admission Requirements:
- 3 year’s bachelors 2 years master’s degree
- GPA required: 3.77 GPA or 95% (Avg)
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Personal statement in 200 words
- 2 Essays
- Short answer questions
- English language proficiency:
- TOEFL IBT- 100
- IELTS- 7.0
- Test scores:
- GMAT- 630-790
- GRE- 150-170 [Quant] | 149-170 [Quant]
Stanford MBA Application Deadlines
| Application Round | Deadlines | Decision Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | September 10, 2025 | December 5, 2025 |
| 2 | January 8, 2026 | April 3, 2026 |
| 3 | April 8, 2026 | May 29, 2026 |
Stanford MBA Class Profile 2026
As per the recent MBA Class profile, 61% of students submitted GMAT score while the rest 39% submitted GRE scores for admissions. The Stanford MBA class profile came from 82 U.S instituton and 83 foreign institutes.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Applicants | 7,295 |
| Number of Applicants Enrolled | 424 |
| Percentage of Female Students | 44% |
| Percentage of International Students | 39% |
| Countries Represented | 72 |
| Average GPA | 3.75 |
| Average GMAT Score | 738 |
| Average GRE Verbal Score | 164 |
| Average GRE Quant Score | 163 |
| Average TOEFL Score | 113 |
| Average Work Experience | 5.1 years |
Stanford University Undergraduate Admission
Stanford University offers undergraduate programs in 66 majors. Currently, there are 7,800 students enrolled in undergraduate programs. Below are the entry requirements for undergraduate admissions at Stanford:
Application Portal: Common Application
Application Fees: $90 (₹7,797)
Admission Requirements:
- High school transcripts
- Interview
- QnA (50 words each)
- 3 Essays (100-250 words)
- 2 LORs from teachers
- Counselor recommendation
- Resume
- TOEFL score of 100+ [IBT]
- Standardized test (optional):
- SAT- 1450
- ACT- 31
Stanford University Application Deadlines and Decisions
International undergraduate applicants must adhere to the below mentioned dates and deadlines while applying to Stanford University admissions:
Undergraduate Admission Deadlines
Mentioned below are the upcoming application deadlines and other important for undegraduate admissions at Harvard University:
| Event | Early Action | Regular Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Stanford Deadlines | November 1, 2025 | January 5, 2026 |
| Notification for Missing Documents | Mid-November | Mid-February |
| Decision Dates | Mid-December | Early April |
| Admission Confirmation Deadlines | May 1, 2026 | May 1, 2026 |
Master’s degree applicants may wait till Early March for their decisions to arrive. Decisions for PhD applicants are typically made in Early April.
Stanford University Selection Criteria
The selection criteria of Stanford University is majorly focused with high academic GPA and test scores. Additionally, the admission committee also seeks candidates who demonstrate exceptional leadership and aptitude skills. Stanford University also requires essays or personal statements to get insight into a student's thoughts and post study plans.
There are numerous other factors that play a key role in the selection process at Stanford. Some of these factors are:
- Academic Achievement
- Volunteering/extracurricular involvement
- Unique achievement
- Genuine interest to study at Stanford
- Commitment to school
- Geographic residence & ethnic status
- Full-time work experience
- Essays
- LORs from faculty or counselor
- Character/personal qualities
- Interview
Admissions at Stanford University are highly competitive, and the acceptance rate has consistently been recorded below 5%. Stanford not only considers high GPA but also looks for candidates who demonstrate other qualities such as leadership and analytical skills. Students seeking admissions may improve their chances by submitting essays, personal statements and relevant test scores.
FAQs
Ques. What are Stanford University admission requirements for international students?
Ans. The admissions requirements for international students are similar to domestic applicants. However, international students are also required to provide English test scores and immigration documents for admissions.
The overall admission requirements for international students applying in UG or PG level at Stanford are as follows:
| Requirements | Undergraduate Admissions | Graduate Admissions |
|---|---|---|
| Application Portal | Common Application | Stanford Graduate Application |
| Application Fees | 90 USD | 125 USD |
| Academic Requirements | No minimum requires | 3.5 GPA or above |
| English Language Test Scores | TOEFL IBT score of 100+ | TOEFL IBT score of 100 |
| GMAT Scores | SAT: 1440-1570 | ACT: 34-35 | |
| Documents Checklist | QnA (50 words each) | 3 Essays (100-250 words) | 2 LORs | Resume | Essay questions | SOP | 2-3 LOR | Resume |
Ques. What is the application processes of Stanford University admission for Indian students?
Ans. Indian students can apply for Stanford University admissions by following the below mentioned steps:
- Select your course.
- Check the admission requirements.
- Prepare for the admission test (GMAT/GRE or SAT/ACT).
- Submit English language proficiency test scores.
- Upload required documents such as LORs, Essays, SOPs, etc.
- Attend the interview (on invitation).
- Pay the application fee
- Wait for the arrival of admissions decision.
Ques. Is it difficult to get admission in Stanford University?
Ans. With an acceptance rate of only 3.9%, Stanford University is one of the toughest universities to get into. However, it's not impossible to secure admissions at Stanford for applicants who demonstrate strong academic background with exceptional non-academic achievements, leadership potential and analytical skills.
Ques. What time do Stanford decisions come out?
Ans. Stanford University announces decisions for Master's degree in Early March and for PhD in Early April. Decisions for undergraduate admissions are issued on the following dates:
| Decision Type | Decision Dates |
|---|---|
| Early Action | Mid-December |
| Regular Decision | Early April |
Ques. How does Stanford notify applicants of decisions?
Ans. Stanford University notifies applicants about their admission decisions through the Stanford Portal and via official email. The applicants can login into the Stanford Portal using the credentials provided via email.
Ques. Is IELTS required for Stanford University?
Ans. IELTS is generally Not required for majority of undergraduate and graduate programs at Stanford University. The university majorly accepts TOEFL for admissions with a score of 100 or above. However, the IELTS can be accepted in lieu of TOEFL scores for MBA program. A minimum band score of 7.0 in IELTS test is required for Stanford MBA.
Ques. What GPA fo you need to get into Stanford University?
Ans. To secure admission to Stanford University, Indian students need a competitive GPA of 3.9 (94%) in previous academic program. If your percentage is lower than this, then you need to compensate with standardised test score like SAT, GMAT or supplementary documents like Personal Essay, Reference letters.
Ques. When do admissions start at Stanford?
Ans. The admission cycle varies for Stanford University courses, depending on the type of program.
| Category | Submission |
|---|---|
| UG Early Action Deadline | Early November |
| UG Regular Decision Deadline | Early January |
| Graduate Programs | Mid-September |
| MBA Program | Mid-September: January 6April 6 |
Ques. Is SAT score required for Stanford?
Ans. For 2025 admissions, Stanford University is not offering test-optional scheme. Therefore SAT or ACT score are required by first-year students for consideration at Stanford.
Ques. What all courses are available for International students at Stanford University in 2025?
Ans. International students planning to study at Stanford University can choose from 200 graduate programs and 69 undergraduate programs. More than 50% of the prospective students apply for STEM disciplines at the university.
Ques. What all documents are need for admission at Stanford?
Ans. The application documents for international applicants are:
- Transcripts and mark sheets
- School report cards and counsellor recommendation letters
- Recommendation letter from Professor or Teacher
- Standardised test score: GRE/GMAT
- TOEFL score or IELTS Score
- Statement of Purpose
Placements & Recruiters
Stanford University Placement Details
Stanford University in Stanford, California, United States placement details include salary insights, top recruiters, and hiring trends to help students understand career outcomes and campus opportunities.
Students usually compare highest package, average package, and recruiter profile before applying. This section gives a compact overview of career outcomes and placement visibility in Stanford, California, United States.
Recruiters
N/A
Salary Metrics
0/2
Placement Metric
Average Package
N/A
Shows the typical package range students may expect based on the available average salary data.
Placement information is currently limited.
More salary or recruiter data may be updated later for this college.
Rankings over the years
Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.
2022
Highlights
2022
2022
- Best overall country rank: #2
- Sciences: #1 in country
- Top source: THE
- 39 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 8 ranking records in 2022
2023
Highlights
2023
2023
- Best overall country rank: #2
- Overall: #2 in country
- Top source: QS
- 34 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 4 ranking records in 2023
2024
Highlights
2024
2024
- Best overall country rank: #1
- Overall: #1 in country
- Top source: THE
- 46 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 5 ranking records in 2024
2025
Highlights
2025
2025
- Best overall country rank: #3
- Psychology: #1 in country
- Top source: THE
- 38 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 4 ranking records in 2025
2026
Highlights
2026
2026
- Best overall country rank: #2
- Overall: #2 in country
- Top source: QS
- 7 ranked streams
- Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
- 3 ranking records in 2026
Contact Information
450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305–2004
+1-650-723-2300
+1-650-725-2846
Student Reviews & Ratings
Overall sentiment and category-wise rating summary
Overall score
8.4/10
Top Rated
Based on 4 ratings
Rating Breakdown
Visual summary of rating distribution and categories
Live Summary
Academic
9.8/10
Faculty
9.8/10
Infrastructure
9.5/10
Accommodation
9.5/10
Placement
9.3/10
Extracurricular
10.0/10