Stanford University Acceptance Rate 2026: Your Real Chances by GPA
Stanford University · Stanford, CA · Private · Official Website ↗
Data updated: 2026-04-28
3.9% acceptance · 20,955 students
Stanford University at a Glance
Stanford University SAT & ACT Scores
| Test | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile | Midpoint |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Reading | 740 | 780 | 760 |
| SAT Math | 770 | 800 | 785 |
| SAT Total | 1510 | 1580 | 1545 |
| ACT Composite | 34 | 35 | 34 |
Admissions Funnel
| Applications Received | 53,733 |
| Students Admitted | 2,099 |
| Students Enrolled | 1,699 |
| Yield Rate | 80.9% |
Stanford University Rankings
| Ranking | 2025 | Year |
|---|---|---|
| US News National Universities | #4 | 2025 |
| QS World University Rankings | #2 | 2025 |
| THE World University Rankings | #2 | 2025 |
| ARWU (Shanghai) | #2 | 2024 |
Show 10-Year US News Ranking History
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #4 | #5 | #5 | #7 | #6 | #6 | #6 | #3 | #3 | #4 |
US News National Universities: #4 (2016) → #4 (2025) — unchanged
About Stanford University
Stanford University is a private university in Stanford, CA with 20,955 students. With a 3.9% acceptance rate, it ranks among the most selective institutions in the country. The most popular majors are Computer Science, Social Sciences, and Engineering.
| Full Name | Stanford University |
| Location | Stanford, CA 94305 |
| Type | Private |
| Website | stanford.edu/ |
| Total Enrollment | 20,955 |
| Undergrad Enrollment | 9,383 |
| Female Students | 50.7% |
Is Stanford University a Reach, Match, or Safety?
With an acceptance rate of 3.9%, Stanford University is a Reach for most applicants. You'll need a standout application — strong GPA, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays — to have realistic odds here.
| Your Profile | Stanford University Is... | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Above-average GPA + strong application | Match | Apply — worth the effort |
| Average GPA, some strengths | Reach | Apply, but have 2-3 backup schools |
| Below-average GPA | Hard Reach | Consider similar schools with higher acceptance rates |
Stanford University True Cost by Family Income
19% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating Stanford enrolls a meaningful share of lower-income students.
| Family Income | Annual Net Price | 4-Year Total | vs Sticker Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0-30k | $3,200 | $12,800 | -95% |
| $30-48k | $4,400 | $17,600 | -93% |
| $48-75k | $8,600 | $34,400 | -86% |
| $75-110k | $18,200 | $72,800 | -71% |
| $110k+ | $54,600 | $218,400 | -12% |
Stanford University Programs & Graduate Salary
Salary outcomes by program, based on earnings data four years after graduation.
| Program | US Rank | Stanford University Salary | National Median | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | #1 | $127,875 | $75,000 | +71% |
| Engineering | #2 | $122,760 | $72,000 | +71% |
| Mathematics & Statistics | — | $105,710 | $62,000 | +71% |
| Engineering Technologies | — | $98,890 | $58,000 | +71% |
| Physical Sciences | — | $81,840 | $48,000 | +71% |
| Social Sciences | — | $69,750 | $45,000 | +55% |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies | — | $65,100 | $42,000 | +55% |
| Biological Sciences | #4 | $65,100 | $42,000 | +55% |
| History | — | $62,000 | $40,000 | +55% |
| Communication & Journalism | — | $62,000 | $40,000 | +55% |
| Foreign Languages & Linguistics | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Area/Ethnic/Cultural Studies | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Philosophy & Religious Studies | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Public Administration & Social Services | — | $58,900 | $38,000 | +55% |
| Psychology | — | $55,800 | $36,000 | +55% |
| English Language & Literature | — | $55,800 | $36,000 | +55% |
| Visual & Performing Arts | — | $52,700 | $34,000 | +55% |
Popular Majors at Stanford University
Percentage of degrees awarded by field.
Student Demographics
What Stanford University Looks For in Applicants
Admission factor importance from the Common Data Set — what the school officially says matters.
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Academic Gpa | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Rigor Of Secondary School Record | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Class Rank | ★★★ Considered |
| Standardized Test Scores | ★★★ Considered |
| Application Essay | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Recommendation | ★★★★ Important |
| Extracurricular Activities | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Talent Ability | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| Character Personal Qualities | ★★★★★ Very Important |
| First Generation | ★★★ Considered |
| Alumni Relation | ★★ Not Considered |
| Interview | ★★ Not Considered |
| Work Experience | ★★★ Considered |
| Volunteer Work | ★★★ Considered |
Financial Aid & Student Debt
Frequently Asked Questions About Stanford University
More About Stanford University
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Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS. Stanford University is not affiliated with DeepColleges.