Stanford University
âDie Luft der Freiheit wehtâ
Overview & History of Stanford University
Stanford University, founded in 1885, sits at the heart of Silicon Valley and is one of the world’s most innovative universities.
With 17,200+ students, Stanford has produced founders of Google, HP, Netflix, LinkedIn, and countless other companies.
Stanford meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, including internationals.
Details at a Glance â Stanford University
| 1. University Name | Stanford University |
|---|---|
| 2. Founded | 1885 |
| 3. Location | Stanford, California, USA |
| 4. Type | Private Research University · Innovation Hub |
| 5. Total Students | 17,200+ |
| 6. International Students | 23%+ of total enrollment |
| 7. Total Subjects / Programs | 200+ courses |
| 8. World Ranking | #3 QS 2026 | #2 THE 2025 | #2 ARWU |
| 9. Acceptance Rate | ~3.6% |
| 10. Application Fee | $90 |
| 11. Official Website | www.stanford.edu ↗ |
Rankings of Stanford University
Best Subject-wise Rankings (QS by Subject)
| Subject Area | QS World Rank | THE Rank | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering & Technology | #2 | #1 | Electrical, mechanical, CS |
| Computer Science | #2 | #2 | AI, systems, theory |
| Natural Sciences | #3 | #3 | Physics, chemistry, biology |
| Social Sciences | #3 | #2 | Economics, political science |
| Arts & Humanities | #4 | #5 | History, English, philosophy |
| Business & Management | #1 | #1 | Stanford GSB |
Total Programs & Available Subjects
Harvard offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs across virtually every academic discipline:
Admission Timeline — When to Apply
Application Opens
Common App / Coalition App opens.
Restrictive Early Action
Non-binding early option.
Regular Decision Deadline
Main deadline for all applicants.
Financial Aid Forms Due
CSS Profile and IDOC required.
Decisions Released
Reply by May 1.
Autumn Quarter Begins
Scholarships for International Students
Harvard practices need-blind admission for all applicants — including international students — and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Families earning under $100,000/year typically pay nothing.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Fully funded graduate scholarship for 100 scholars annually.
Successful Alumni from Stanford University
Tuition & Monthly Living Costs
| Tuition & Fees (per year) | ~$61,731 |
|---|---|
| Housing & Meals (per year) | ~$19,000 |
| Books, Personal & Travel | ~$4,500 |
| Total Cost of Attendance | ~$85,000 / year |
FAQs â Stanford University for International Students
Can internationals apply?
Yes. 23% of students are international. Need-blind for US citizens, need-aware for internationals.
Full scholarships available?
Yes. Knight-Hennessy covers full cost of graduate study. Undergrads receive need-based aid.
TOEFL/IELTS required?
Required for non-English speakers. TOEFL 100+ (iBT), IELTS not preferred.
What test scores?
SAT 1500+ / ACT 34+ typical. Test-optional since 2022.
When to apply?
Restrictive Early Action Nov 1; Regular Decision Jan 2.
Ready to apply to Stanford University?
Need-blind admission · Full financial support · Deadline Dec 1, 2026
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