The Stanford University acceptance rate reveals a prestigious institution that often ranks above Ivy League universities. Most school students dream of attending this selective school. Although the school has a holistic admissions process, prospective applicants must prepare before applying.
The Stanford University admissions process is rigorous, so it’s important to know everything you can if you plan to apply for a program at the school. This article explores the Stanford University admission requirements, alongside what makes Stanford so hard to get into. You will also find out the key careers that await Stanford graduates.
Is Stanford University Easy to Get Into?
No, Stanford University is not easy to get into, which can be seen in its low admission rate. Thousands of students apply each year, and only a select few are accepted. Admissions considerations include a student’s academic record and standardized test scores. While students remain in high school, they must reach their full academic potential for possible admission to Stanford.
What Is Stanford University’s Acceptance Rate?
The acceptance rate for Stanford University is four percent, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This rate is one of the lowest in the country. Over 50,000 students apply annually, and around 2,000 of those gain admission.
What Is Stanford University’s Transfer Acceptance Rate?
The transfer acceptance rate for Stanford University is one percent. Most accepted transfer applicants held SAT scores of 800 across critical reading, math, and writing and a composite score of 30 to 36.
What Is Stanford University’s Early Decision Acceptance Rate
The early decision acceptance rate for Stanford University is nine percent. The last calculated figures show that in 2021, the school accepted 721 early decision applicants out of a total of 7,822.
Stanford University Admissions: An Overview
- Number of Applicants at Stanford University per year: 55,471
- Stanford University Acceptance Rate: 4%
Stanford University is one of the most selective universities in the country, with very stringent admission requirements. With an acceptance rate of only four percent, most applicants do not get accepted into the school. To achieve admission, applicants must maintain academic excellence, meet the standardized testing score requirement, and ask for strong letters of recommendation from two teachers.
Who Gets Into Stanford University?
People from diverse backgrounds get into Stanford University. The university has a mix of white, Asian, Hispanic, African American, and American Indian students. There are also native Hawaiian students and others of two or more races. The percentage of white students increases to nearly 50 percent if you include doctoral programs.
Stanford University Enrollment by Ethnicity
- White – 31%
- Asian – 19.6%
- Hispanic or Latino – 11.6%
- Two or More Races – 6.32%
- Black or African American – 4.94%
- American Indian or Alaska Native – 0.47%
- Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders – 0.176%
Stanford University Acceptance Rate by Major
Stanford University has not published data on its acceptance rate by major at this time.
Stanford University Application Deadline: When Is Stanford University’s Application Due?
The deadline to apply to Stanford University is November 1 for restrictive early action applications. For regular decision applications, the deadline is January 5, while the transfer admission deadline is March 15.
Stanford University Application Deadlines
- Early Decision Deadline: December 15
- Early Action Deadline: November 1
- Application Fee: $90
- Common App: Yes
What Are the Major Reasons to Go to Stanford University?
While Stanford is difficult to get into, there are many reasons to attend this university. The university is prestigious and could open doors for students in the future. Below are some other reasons to attend Stanford University to earn a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctorate.
Top-Tier Faculty
Stanford is not just a prestigious university but also has top-tier faculties and schools. The college professors provide excellent training that encompasses theory and practice.
Some courses are taught by top professionals in the field to give students the best education possible. This is why the university has been crowned one of the best in the world for graduate degree programs and undergraduate degree programs.
Interdisciplinary Learning
Stanford is one of the top competitive schools with an interdisciplinary approach to teaching. This approach allows students to master other skills to help them stand out in their careers. Each school offers unique interdisciplinary programs, including the School of Engineering, School of Humanities & Sciences, Graduate School of Business, and Stanford School of Law.
Stanford offers two to three-week intensive courses that allow students to personalize their education without committing to an entire quarter. This way, they can explore potential avenues for post-doctoral research or simply arouse their interest.
Professional Opportunities
Stanford University gives you more professional opportunities than most universities. With this school on your resume, you will stand out from other candidates in the job market. This university has a reputation for giving students a high-quality educational process.
Stanford University has a solid alumni network, which comes in handy while searching for professional opportunities. Since the graduates often get the first pick of jobs, they, in turn, hire graduates from their school to continue their work.
Tips for Applying to Stanford University
You must plan ahead to ensure that you meet the Stanford University admission requirements. The university emphasizes your previous institution record, class rank, GPA, application essay, and recommendations. It also considers volunteer work and work experience. The school does not take your state residency or religious affiliation into consideration.
Get a High GPA
Stanford University has a high GPA requirement. While most regular schools will accept a 3.0 GPA, you need to get a minimum score of 3.96 to apply. The admissions team wants to be sure you can handle the coursework and fast-paced environment. If your GPA is below this, you must get a high SAT score to compensate and take eight to 12 advanced placement programs.
Get a High SAT/ACT Score
Stanford University admission requirements include high SAT/ACT scores. The SAT score of accepted students is 1420 and above, and about 32 on the ACT. This means that around 75 percent of students at Stanford were admitted with these high scores.
However, If your score is not as high as the numbers above, you can take some steps to increase it by studying for your standardized tests. The 75th percentile is 1570 and 35 on SAT and ACT, respectively. If you score above this number, then your chances are higher.
Engage in Extracurricular Activities
It is not enough to be academically fit for Stanford University, you also need to engage in extracurricular activities. This way, you can showcase your personality and talents in other ways.
Activities outside of the classroom show that you have varied interests. It also shows initiative, which demonstrates leadership abilities. Another way to up your chances is to apply for pre-college programs at the school.
Stanford University Admissions Requirements: First-Year Applicant Checklist
Although the school employs a holistic review process for undergraduate admissions, the application requirements are stringent. The university’s application process requires documents that show the applicant has the necessary high school education or equivalent. Below is a list of required documents that must accompany applications from students.
- Coalition or Common online application
- ACT or SAT scores
- $90 non-refundable application fee
- Fee waiver request
- Original records and transcripts
- School report or letters of recommendation from counselor
- Mid-year transcript
- Letters of recommendation from high school teachers
Stanford University SAT Requirements
Below we show you the required SAT scores for Stanford University, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). A 25th percentile figure shows that 25 percent of students scored at or below that number, while a 75th percentile figure tells us that 25 percent scored above that number.
- Students Submitting SAT Scores: 13%
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 720 (25th percentile); 770 (75th percentile)
- SAT Math: 750 (25th percentile); 800 (75th percentile)
Stanford University ACT Requirements
ACT test scores are made up of English, math, reading, and science. Each subject is divided into parts. English includes language and writing scores while reading looks at a student’s ideas and details. Your science scores demonstrate your ability to interpret data, investigation, and evaluations. Math includes algebra, functions, geometry, statistics, and integrating skills.
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- Students Submitting ACT Scores: 9%
- ACT Composite: 34 (25th percentile); 35 (75th percentile)
- ACT English: 35 (25th percentile); 36 (75th percentile)
- ACT Math: 31 (25th percentile); 33 (75th percentile)
Acing Your Stanford University Application: What Is the Best Way to Prepare for the SAT and ACT?
Learn How It Works
Learning how standardized tests work can help prevent any surprises during the exam. You can find all your instructions on the amount of time you’re allotted for the test and know which questions to answer without making costly mistakes. Register on time for the exam and pick a center close to your residence.
Practice Often
Take practice tests online to help you find problem areas to fix. There are many online resources for that purpose. You can find full-length tests that give you a full exam experience. The answers are scored after you complete the test, and you should be able to practice and improve on your mistakes each time.
Practicing doesn’t only help you learn how to answer the questions but also teaches you to handle your anxiety. You get to focus on a test for hours and work on finding answers quickly, training yourself for the actual scenario. When you do this a couple of times, you will master the structure of the exam and ultimately increase your speed.
Start Reading
SAT tests specifically focus on reading. Students often need to work on five long passages in just one hour. While you may not find the questions difficult, you may find them confusing. Reading improves your comprehension, which means you’re better able to understand something.
Spend some time reading non-fiction and fiction books while preparing for the SAT. You can also read magazines such as the New York Times or Time Magazine. Extending your reading will help your comprehension, give your writing versatility, and broaden your general knowledge.
Stanford University GPA Requirements: What GPA Do I Need to Get In?
To get into Stanford University, you must have a 3.96 GPA or above. If you do not meet this requirement, it reduces your chances of acceptance. Some students may get in with a slightly lower GPA, along with other considerations. The school will not consider any score lower than 3.70.
Stanford University Tuition: How Much Does it Cost to Attend Stanford University?
It costs $78,218 for on-campus, first-year students to attend Stanford University, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The fees for graduate students are $54,315 per annum. This cost covers the tuition, room and board, and other required fees.
Common Majors at Stanford University
Stanford University has many common majors, but computer science, human biology, and cognitive science stand out among the rest. This section will highlight the common majors and the available roles for graduates of the programs.
Computer Science
The computer science major offered by the Computer Science Department has a reputation for excellence. This major prepares graduates to become data scientists, software engineers, and systems software developers.
The program uses a hands-on approach, and you can complete it in four years. According to the US News & World Report, Stanford University’s computer science programs ranked second globally.
Best Jobs for Computer Science Graduates
- Software applications developers
- Systems software developers
- Data scientists
Human Biology
The School of Humanities and Sciences offers a human biology program. The major provides an interdisciplinary approach to human beings’ social, behavioral, biological, and cultural understanding. Graduates get jobs in medicine, education, technology, and public services.
Best Jobs for Human Biology Graduates
- Academic researcher
- Biotechnologist
- Higher education lecturer
Cognitive Science
The Department of Psychology and the School of Humanities and Science offer this cognitive science major. The major focuses on memory, learning, perception, language, mental representation, reasoning, and decision-making. Students learn using computational modeling, behavioral experimentation, neuroimaging, and cross-cultural fieldwork.
Best Jobs for Cognitive Science Graduates
- Therapists
- Teachers
- Research analysts
Stanford University Attendance Outcomes
Stanford University has many positive outcomes because of its status. According to the university’s report on recent MBA graduates, 91 percent of graduates received job offers within 90 days of completing their program. Even graduates who choose to open their own businesses report success. No wonder it is the dream school of thousands of national and international applicants.
Most Common Jobs for People Who Attended Stanford University
| Position | Median Salary | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Engineers, including nuclear engineers | $120,380 | -8% |
| Software developers | $110,140 | 22% |
| Managers | $102,450 | 9% |
| Mechanical engineers | $95,300 | 7% |
| Civil engineers | $88,050 | 8% |
Stanford University Alumni Highest-Paying Jobs
| Position | Median Salary | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Physicians | $208,000 | 3% |
| Surgeons | $208,000 | 3% |
| Financial specialists | $81,410 | 6% |
| Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents | $62,910 | 4% |
| Cardiovascular technologists and technicians | $62,020 | 2% |
Should I Apply to Stanford University?
Yes, you should apply to Stanford University if you meet the admission requirements. The school receives a high volume of applications, and the admission process is very selective. However, if you prepare ahead of time and use the tips listed in this guide, you will increase your chances of being accepted.
Stanford University Acceptance Rate FAQ
You need to have at least a 3.96 GPA to get into Stanford. In rare cases, the university may accept students with a slightly lower GPA if they perform well in other criteria. However, it is not guaranteed. Criteria for admission may also vary depending on whether the program is an undergraduate or graduate program, such as a PhD program.
Yes, Stanford University is hard to get into. This is because it has an acceptance rate of four percent. This means that a large percentage of applications are turned down each year. The university does not take your socioeconomic status into consideration as they prefer a diverse student population and offer need-based financial aid and scholarships.
No, Stanford is not an Ivy League university. Even though it’s ranked alongside or above the eight Ivy Leagues, Stanford is not one of them. However, it is a prestigious university that provides high-quality bachelor’s, PhD, and master’s degree programs.
Stanford University accepts prospective students that show intellectual vitality and admirable personal qualities. The admissions team looks for prospective students with extracurricular activities that demonstrate talent, specialties, and personality in other ways.
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