Stanford University campus in Stanford

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Stanford University

Stanford University is a private university in Stanford, United States, founded in 1885, with about 17,300 students. Tuition is around USD 58,980 a year (2025-26).

Type
Private university
Location
Stanford, United States
Founded
1885
Students
17,300
International students
14%
Tuition
USD 58,980 / year (2025-26)
Acceptance rate
3.6%
Teaching language
English
Academic calendar
Quarter
Ranking
QS World: #3

Data from the official website and Wikidata · last checked 18 Oct 2026 · How we collect data · Report an error · Is this your university? Claim it to update

Stanford University is a private research university in Stanford, California, in the heart of Silicon Valley. It was founded in 1885 by Leland and Jane Stanford in memory of their son and opened in 1891.

Its seven schools cover business, earth sciences (Doerr School of Sustainability), education, engineering, humanities and sciences, law and medicine. Stanford's close ties with the technology industry helped shape Silicon Valley, and its alumni have founded companies such as Google, Hewlett-Packard and Nvidia. Research facilities include the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory.

Undergraduate admission is highly selective and holistic. Stanford meets the full demonstrated financial need of admitted undergraduates, and most students live on its large residential campus.

Admissions, rankings and scholarships

Rankings

  • #3QS World
  • #4THE World

Requirements and dates change every year. Confirm them on Stanford University's official website before applying.

Thinking of applying? Send your question straight to Stanford University.

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Key Information

Programs
Humanities and Sciences Engineering Graduate School of Business Law Medicine Sustainability Graduate Division
Humanities and Sciences
Engineering & Technology
Graduate School of Business
Law & Legal Studies
Medicine & Health Sciences
Sustainability
Graduate Division
Language English
Accommodation Undergraduate Residence Halls, Graduate Housing, Residential Colleges, Fraternity/Sorority Housing
Academic Calendar Quarter
Established 1885
University Type private
Degree Levels Bachelor, Master, PhD
Acceptance Rate 3.60%
Graduation Rate 93.00%
International Students 14.00%
Research Output Very High
Campus Size 8180 acres
Notable Rankings QS World #3, THE #4
Scholarships Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Average grant aid exceeds $55,000.

Frequently asked questions

How much is tuition at Stanford University?

Tuition at Stanford University is around USD 58,980 a year for 2025-26. Fees vary by program and can differ for international students, so check the university's official fees page before applying.

What is the acceptance rate at Stanford University?

Stanford University has an acceptance rate of about 3.6%.

What language are courses taught in at Stanford University?

Courses at Stanford University are taught in English.

When is the application deadline for Stanford University?

Restrictive Early Action: Nov 1, Regular Decision: Jan 2

Does Stanford University offer scholarships?

Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Average grant aid exceeds $55,000.

Does Stanford University have student accommodation?

Accommodation options include: Undergraduate Residence Halls, Graduate Housing, Residential Colleges, Fraternity/Sorority Housing.

How many international students are at Stanford University?

About 14% of students at Stanford University are international.

When was Stanford University founded?

Stanford University was founded in 1885.

How is Stanford University ranked?

Stanford University is ranked QS World: #3; THE World: #4.

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