Stanford University
Stanford University at a Glance
Average SAT & ACT Scores for Stanford University
| 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
Stanford University Overview
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% |
Stanford University Housing & Dorms: Cost Breakdown
Should You Live On or Off Campus at Stanford University?
Stanford University has 14,415 on-campus beds for 9,383 undergrads — that's enough for about 154% of the undergraduate population. Most students live on campus all four years.
On-Campus
- Walk to classes — no commute
- Meal plan included (19 meals/week)
- Built-in community and social life
- Utilities, wifi, and furniture included
Off-Campus
- Potentially cheaper (varies by city)
- More privacy and independence
- Cook your own meals — save on food
- Need to budget for utilities and transport
Stanford University Campus & Location
Stanford University is located in Stanford, CA — classified as Suburb: Large. The suburban location offers a quieter environment while still being close to urban amenities.
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
How to Get Into Stanford University
Stanford is a Reach school for nearly all applicants. Competitive applicants typically score 1545+ on the SAT. Beyond grades and scores, Stanford wants to see intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a clear sense of purpose in your application. Have 2-3 realistic backup schools — even perfect-on-paper students get denied here.
What Stanford University Values Most 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 |
Stanford University Application Deadlines & Requirements
Key dates for the Stanford University REA admission cycle. Mark these on your calendar — missing a deadline means waiting another year.
| Deadline | Date |
|---|---|
| Early Action | Nov 1 |
| Regular Decision | Jan 2 |
| Financial Aid (FAFSA/CSS) | Feb 15 |
Financial Aid & Student Debt
Frequently Asked Questions About Stanford University
More About Stanford University
Other Colleges in CA
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS. Stanford University is not affiliated with DeepColleges.