Stanford University Admission Requirements
Contents
Dreaming of joining Stanford University, one of the most innovative and prestigious institutions in the world? Known for its academic rigor, entrepreneurial spirit, and beautiful campus, Stanford’s admissions process is one of the most competitive, resulting in Stanford University Acceptance Rate falling under 4%. In this guide, we’ll detail the GPA, test scores, and application materials needed to create a strong application for one of the Best Universities in the US.
Stanford University GPA Requirements
Stanford does not publish a minimum GPA requirement, but successful applicants generally have exceptional academic records.
Key GPA Expectations:
- Unweighted GPA: Competitive applicants typically have a 3.9 or higher.
- Weighted GPA: Students often have a 4.0+, excelling in advanced courses like AP, IB, or honors classes.
- Course Rigor: Stanford values students who challenge themselves academically with advanced coursework, especially in their areas of interest.
Stanford evaluates GPA within the context of your high school’s offerings, considering the difficulty of your classes alongside your grades.
What You Can Do: Focus on maintaining high grades, especially in challenging courses. Seek academic support from IB Tutors in United States or Online AP Tutors to strengthen performance in your weakest subjects.
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Stanford University SAT/ACT/IB/AP Requirements
Stanford will resume requiring either the SAT or the ACT for undergraduate admission, beginning with students applying in fall 2025 for admission to the Class of 2030. Stanford will remain test-optional for students applying in fall 2024 for admission to the Class of 2029. Particularly for international students who are not familiar with US standardized testing, it is recommended to read the Guide to the SAT and ACT for International Students.
SAT and ACT Scores
Stanford has a test-optional policy for now, but will start requiring standardized test scores again next year. For prospective applicants, here are the scores you should be confident to achieve on these tests:
Scoring near the top of these ranges makes you a competitive candidate.
AP and IB Scores
Stanford values advanced coursework and recognizes the rigor of AP and IB programs. While not required, strong scores demonstrate academic readiness:
- AP: Multiple 4s and 5s are typical for competitive applicants.
- IB: A total score of 40+ points with 6s and 7s in Higher Level (HL) subjects aligns with Stanford’s expectations.
What You Can Do: If you are feeling unsure about your performance on standardized tests, don't hesitate to enlist help from professionals such as Online SAT Tutors or IB Tutors in Los Angeles. Prioritize advanced courses and exams that align with your intended field of study.
Even on your own, you can dramatically improve your performance by practicing past paper and practice questions on medium like Revision Platform, which organizes questions by topic and tracks your progress, all of which can massively improve your academic.
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Stanford University Application Requirements
Similar to Harvard University and Yale University, Stanford University accepts first-year applications through three platforms: Common Application, Coalition Application, and QuestBridge. Below are the key application components:
1. Personal Statement
Submit a 650-word essay via the Common Application or Coalition Application. This essay should reflect your unique story, values, and goals. Consult an Online Personal Statement Tutor if want extra help expressing yourself on the personal statement.
2. Stanford Supplemental Essays
Stanford requires additional essays, which often include:
- "What matters to you, and why?"
- "How will Stanford help you achieve your aspirations?"
These essays allow you to showcase your fit for Stanford’s community and academic opportunities.
3. Recommendation Letters
- Two teacher recommendations from instructors who can attest to your academic abilities and character.
- Counselor recommendation summarizing your academic and personal achievements.
4. Academic Transcripts
Submit official high school transcripts that reflect:
- Academic excellence and consistent performance.
- Participation in advanced coursework like AP, IB, or honors classes.
5. English Language Proficiency (for International Students)
International students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests:
- TOEFL: 100+ iBT.
- IELTS: 7.0+.
- Duolingo English Test: 125+.
6. Resume or Activities List
Highlight your leadership roles, awards, and sustained commitment to extracurricular activities that demonstrate your interests and impact.
7. Other Required Materials
- Application fee of $90 (fee waivers are available).
- Mid-year and final reports submitted by your counselor.
What You Can Do: Start your essays early and seek feedback from mentors or counselors. Work with US College Application Tutors to refine your essays and application strategy.
Application Deadlines and Timeline
The application deadlines for Stanford University's first-year program are:
- Restrictive Early Action (REA) with Arts Portfolio: October 15
- REA Standard Application: November 1
- Regular Decision with Arts Portfolio: December 5
- Regular Decision Standard Application: January 5
Stanford releases decisions for REA applicants in mid-December and for Regular Decision applicants in early April. REA is a non-binding early application option that may be a good fit if:
- Stanford is your first choice
- You've done well in a challenging academic schedule through grade 11
- You have enough time to write a thoughtful application before the November 1 deadline
Through careful tracking of your application and keeping with the deadlines, you will complete the last step towards maximizing your chance at an offer at Stanford University.
Conclusion
Stanford University's admissions process is known for its selectivity, but also holistic approach and innovative essay questions. International applicants should familiarize themselves with guides such as "the Education System in the US Explained" and even "School Holidays in the US". Prepare sufficiently and seek help when needed from, for example, the Best Tutoring Companies in the US, so as to maximize your chances of joining this famous institution!
FAQ
Do you need straight A's to go to Stanford?
You don’t need straight A’s to get into Stanford, but most admitted students have exceptional academic records. Stanford evaluates applicants holistically, meaning strong grades in challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors classes are crucial but not the sole factor. Demonstrating intellectual curiosity, leadership, and extracurricular involvement can compensate for a less-than-perfect GPA. Stanford values students who excel academically while pursuing their passions and making a meaningful impact. If your GPA isn’t perfect, highlight personal growth and achievements in other areas to strengthen your application and show why you’re a great fit for Stanford’s community.
What is the hardest college to get into in America?
Stanford and Harvard consistently rank among the hardest colleges to get into in America due to their low acceptance rates and high applicant standards. Stanford’s acceptance rate hovers around 3.95%, while Harvard’s is approximately 3.7%, making them highly selective. Other competitive schools include Princeton, Columbia, and MIT. Admissions at these institutions focus on holistic review, requiring stellar academics, leadership, extracurriculars, and compelling personal statements. While no single college can claim the title universally, these schools’ competitiveness underscores the need for exceptional preparation to secure admission.
Is Stanford harder than Harvard to get in?
Stanford and Harvard have similarly rigorous admissions processes, making both extremely difficult to get into. Stanford’s acceptance rate, at 3.95%, is slightly lower than Harvard’s 3.7%, indicating marginally tougher competition. However, difficulty depends on the applicant’s strengths and fit with each university’s culture. Stanford often attracts students with entrepreneurial mindsets and STEM excellence, while Harvard appeals to those drawn to leadership in various disciplines. Both require exceptional grades, test scores, essays, and extracurriculars. Ultimately, whether Stanford or Harvard is harder depends on your profile and how well it aligns with each institution’s unique values and mission.
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Written by: Vicky Liu
Vicky has an undergraduate degree from The University of Hong Kong and a Masters from University College London, and has a background in legal and educational writing.
