Stanford University
Stanford, CA · Private Nonprofit
*Net price for families earning $48k–$75k. See all income brackets →
What is Stanford University's acceptance rate?
Down 0.4 percentage points since 2018
With a 3.9% acceptance rate, Stanford University is considered extremely selective. The school has become increasingly competitive over the past five years. Applicants should focus on demonstrating strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and authentic personal essays to stand out in the applicant pool.
How many students apply to Stanford University?
Stanford University received 53,733 applications in 2023, up 13% since 2018. High application volume means admissions officers spend limited time per application—typically 8-15 minutes. Make every word count in your essays and ensure your application materials are error-free.
How many admitted students enroll?
The yield rate of 81% is exceptionally high for a school of this caliber. Yield rate measures how many admitted students actually enroll—a key indicator of how desirable students find the school. Demonstrating genuine interest through campus visits, attending info sessions, and writing specific "Why Us" essays can improve your chances.
What are the most popular majors at Stanford University?
Computer Science leads as the most popular major at Stanford University. Your intended major can affect admission chances—some programs are more competitive than others. Research department-specific requirements, faculty research, and career outcomes when choosing your major. Consider how your academic interests align with the school's strengths.
How have majors changed over time?
Degrees awarded by major, 2015-2023
How has tuition changed at Stanford University?
Tuition has increased by 34% since 2015. Total cost of attendance (including fees and room & board) has grown 35% from $54,508 to $73,424.
How much do Stanford University graduates earn by major?
Graduates in Computer Science earn among the highest salaries, with median earnings of $136,499 within two years of graduation. Earnings vary significantly by major—STEM and business fields typically offer higher starting salaries, while humanities and arts may have different career trajectories. Consider both passion and practical outcomes when choosing your field of study.
Stanford University Admissions Statistics (2018-2023)
Each row shows the admissions cycle for that academic year. Applicants is the total number of students who applied for freshman admission. Admitted shows how many received acceptance letters. Rate is the acceptance rate (admitted ÷ applicants) — lower percentages indicate more selective schools. Yield measures the percentage of admitted students who actually enrolled — a high yield (above 50%) suggests the school is a top choice for admitted students, while lower yields indicate students often choose other options. SAT shows the 25th-75th percentile range, meaning the middle 50% of enrolled students scored within this range. Data is sourced from IPEDS, the federal database where all US colleges report annually.
| Year | Applicants | Admitted | Rate | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 53,733 | 2,099 | 3.9% | 80.9% |
| 2022 | 56,378 | 2,075 | 3.7% | 83.7% |
| 2021 | 55,471 | 2,190 | 4.0% | 80.2% |
| 2020 | 45,227 | 2,349 | 5.2% | 68.4% |
| 2019 | 47,498 | 2,062 | 4.3% | 82.3% |
| 2018 | 47,452 | 2,071 | 4.4% | 81.9% |
| 2017 | 44,073 | 2,085 | 4.7% | 81.5% |
| 2016 | 43,997 | 2,118 | 4.8% | 82.1% |
| 2015 | 42,497 | 2,140 | 5.0% | 80.4% |
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What do Stanford University graduates earn?
Earnings vary widely: the bottom 10% earn $22,500 while the top 10% earn $232,800. Your outcome depends heavily on major, career path, and individual circumstances.
How much does Stanford University cost?
The total cost of attendance at Stanford University is approximately $73,424 per year. Remember: sticker price rarely equals actual cost. Most students receive financial aid, and net price varies significantly by family income. Use the school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate before ruling out any option based on cost alone.
What You'll Actually Pay
Low-income families may pay nothing—or even receive money back for expenses. Stanford University meets full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. This means your admission decision is need-blind, and the school commits to making attendance affordable. File the FAFSA and CSS Profile early to maximize your aid package.
What are the top majors?
View all majors →Which majors pay the most?
- Computer Science $136,499
- Applied Mathematics $97,071
- Engineering-Related Fields $92,632
- Cognitive Science $92,632
- Chemical Engineering $91,744
Who attends Stanford University?
Stanford University enrolls 18,446 students, with 25% from outside the United States. Women make up 48% of the student body. Campus diversity enriches the educational experience through varied perspectives and backgrounds. Consider how you'll contribute to and benefit from the campus community when crafting your application.
How much financial aid is available?
60% of students receive some form of financial aid at Stanford University. About 19% receive Pell Grants, indicating support for low-income students. Apply for aid regardless of your family's income level—merit scholarships and institutional grants are available to students at various income levels. Never assume you won't qualify.
How much do professors earn?
Faculty salaries at Stanford University are above the national average, reflecting the school's investment in attracting and retaining talented professors. Higher faculty compensation often correlates with stronger research programs, better student mentorship, and more resources for academic departments. Look for opportunities to engage with faculty through research, office hours, and smaller seminars.
What schools are similar to Stanford University?
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