Stanford University admissions open for international students in 3 intakes per year: fall, winter and spring. Majority of the applicants prefer fall intake for admissions which starts in September. Admissions are highly competitive at Stanford University with ~3.91% acceptance rate. The university prefers applicants who demontrate strong academic achievement through high GPA, test scores, and extracurricular involvement. Additionally Stanford University is also Popular among international students for its MBA Program which is taught throug the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Stanford Business School is ranked #1 as per the QS Global MBA Ranking and #23 as per the Financial Times Global MBA Rankings.
To get through Stanford University admissions, you must target a GPA a 3.5 or above for graduate programs. International applicants are encouraged to target a GPA between 3.7-3.9% (93-99%) for better chances of securing graduate admissions at Stanford University. There is no minimum GPA requirement for UG admissions at Stanford. However, a GPA of 4.18 is suggested for Indian students along high test scores (SAT/ACT).
- Stanford University Top Programs
- Stanford University Acceptance Rate
- Stanford University Graduate Admissions
- Stanford University Master of Business Administration
4.1 Stanford MBA Application Deadlines
4.2 Stanford MBA Class Profile 2026
- Stanford University Undergraduate Admission
- Stanford University Application Deadlines and Decisions
6.1 Undergraduate Admission Deadlines
- Stanford University Selection Criteria
- FAQs
Stanford University Top Programs
Given below are the top Graduate program at Stanford University with their admission requirements for international students:
Programs | Academic Qualifications | GPA Requirement | Document Checklist |
---|---|---|---|
Master of Business Admission | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 3.77 GPA or 95% (Avg) | 2 LORs Personal Statement (200 words) 2 Essays Short Questions |
MS in Computer Science | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 3.5/4.0 | SOP 3 LORs Resume Supplemental Application Form |
MS in Electrical Engineering | Bachelor’s degree in engineering or medicine; or four-year bachelor's degree. | 3.0/4.0 | SOP (1-3 pages) 3 LORs Resume |
MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering | 4 year Bachelor’s degree | 2.75/4.0 | SOP (1-3 pages or 1000 words) 3 LORs Resume/CV |
MS in Mechanical Engineering | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 3.0/4.0 | SOP 3 LORs Resume/CV Supplementary Information form |
MS in Aeronautics and Astronautics | Bachelor’s degree with Strong quantitative and analytical skills | 2.75/4.0 | 3 LORs SOP Resume/CV Supplementary Application Form |
Stanford University Acceptance Rate
Stanford University acceptance rate is 3.9% as the admissions are highly competitive. For the last year’s admissions, 53,733 applicants applied for Stanford University admissions. Of those, only 2,099 got admitted to the university.
- 270 or 13% of the admitted students were international students.
- Enrolled international students came from 64 countries worldwide. Which means that the university admitted 4 to 5 students from each country.
- The male to female ratio of the admitted students was 46:54.
Stanford University Graduate Admissions
Stanford University offers graduate admissions in more than 200 master's and doctoral level programs offered 7 schools and departments . Nearly 9,300 students are currently enrolled across various graduate programs at Stanford.
Following are the admissions requirements for majority graduate courses:
Application Portal: Stanford Graduate Application
Application Fees: $125 (~₹10.8K)
Admission Requirements:
- 4 year bachelor's degree or 3 year’s bachelors+ 2 years master’s degree
- GPA required: 3.5 GPA (90%)
- 2 Essay questions (500 words)
- Statement of purpose
- 2-3 letter of recommendation
- Resume
- Interview
- TOEFL score of 100+ [IBT]
- Standardized testing:
- GRE- 161 (Quant) & 162 (Verbal)
- GMAT- 650+
Stanford University Master of Business Administration
Admissions to Stanford MBA are conducted in three rounds starting from August through April of the following year. Applications to the MBA program are accepted through the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
The admission requirements for MBA program are as follows:
Application Portal: Stanford Graduate School of Business Application (https://applymbamsx.stanford.edu/apply/)
Application Fees: $275 (₹23,828 INR)
Admission Requirements:
- 3 year’s bachelors 2 years master’s degree
- GPA required: 3.77 GPA or 95% (Avg)
- 2 letters of recommendation
- Personal statement in 200 words
- 2 Essays
- Short answer questions
- English language proficiency:
- TOEFL IBT- 100
- IELTS- 7.0
- Test scores:
- GMAT- 630-790
- GRE- 150-170 [Quant] | 149-170 [Quant]
Stanford MBA Application Deadlines
Application Round | Deadlines | Decision Dates |
---|---|---|
1 | September 10, 2025 | December 5, 2025 |
2 | January 8, 2026 | April 3, 2026 |
3 | April 8, 2026 | May 29, 2026 |
Stanford MBA Class Profile 2026
As per the recent MBA Class profile, 61% of students submitted GMAT score while the rest 39% submitted GRE scores for admissions. The Stanford MBA class profile came from 82 U.S instituton and 83 foreign institutes.
Particulars | Details |
---|---|
Number of Applicants | 7,295 |
Number of Applicants Enrolled | 424 |
Percentage of Female Students | 44% |
Percentage of International Students | 39% |
Countries Represented | 72 |
Average GPA | 3.75 |
Average GMAT Score | 738 |
Average GRE Verbal Score | 164 |
Average GRE Quant Score | 163 |
Average TOEFL Score | 113 |
Average Work Experience | 5.1 years |
Stanford University Undergraduate Admission
Stanford University offers undergraduate programs in 66 majors. Currently, there are 7,800 students enrolled in undergraduate programs. Below are the entry requirements for undergraduate admissions at Stanford:
Application Portal: Common Application
Application Fees: $90 (₹7,797)
Admission Requirements:
- High school transcripts
- Interview
- QnA (50 words each)
- 3 Essays (100-250 words)
- 2 LORs from teachers
- Counselor recommendation
- Resume
- TOEFL score of 100+ [IBT]
- Standardized test (optional):
- SAT- 1450
- ACT- 31
Stanford University Application Deadlines and Decisions
International undergraduate applicants must adhere to the below mentioned dates and deadlines while applying to Stanford University admissions:
Undergraduate Admission Deadlines
Mentioned below are the upcoming application deadlines and other important for undegraduate admissions at Harvard University:
Event | Early Action | Regular Decision |
---|---|---|
Stanford Deadlines | November 1, 2025 | January 5, 2026 |
Notification for Missing Documents | Mid-November | Mid-February |
Decision Dates | Mid-December | Early April |
Admission Confirmation Deadlines | May 1, 2026 | May 1, 2026 |
Master’s degree applicants may wait till Early March for their decisions to arrive. Decisions for PhD applicants are typically made in Early April.
Stanford University Selection Criteria
The selection criteria of Stanford University is majorly focused with high academic GPA and test scores. Additionally, the admission committee also seeks candidates who demonstrate exceptional leadership and aptitude skills. Stanford University also requires essays or personal statements to get insight into a student's thoughts and post study plans.
There are numerous other factors that play a key role in the selection process at Stanford. Some of these factors are:
- Academic Achievement
- Volunteering/extracurricular involvement
- Unique achievement
- Genuine interest to study at Stanford
- Commitment to school
- Geographic residence & ethnic status
- Full-time work experience
- Essays
- LORs from faculty or counselor
- Character/personal qualities
- Interview
Admissions at Stanford University are highly competitive, and the acceptance rate has consistently been recorded below 5%. Stanford not only considers high GPA but also looks for candidates who demonstrate other qualities such as leadership and analytical skills. Students seeking admissions may improve their chances by submitting essays, personal statements and relevant test scores.
FAQs
Ques. What are Stanford University admission requirements for international students?
Ans. The admissions requirements for international students are similar to domestic applicants. However, international students are also required to provide English test scores and immigration documents for admissions.
The overall admission requirements for international students applying in UG or PG level at Stanford are as follows:
Requirements | Undergraduate Admissions | Graduate Admissions |
---|---|---|
Application Portal | Common Application | Stanford Graduate Application |
Application Fees | 90 USD | 125 USD |
Academic Requirements | No minimum requires | 3.5 GPA or above |
English Language Test Scores | TOEFL IBT score of 100+ | TOEFL IBT score of 100 |
GMAT Scores | SAT: 1440-1570 | ACT: 34-35 | |
Documents Checklist | QnA (50 words each) | 3 Essays (100-250 words) | 2 LORs | Resume | Essay questions | SOP | 2-3 LOR | Resume |
Ques. What is the application processes of Stanford University admission for Indian students?
Ans. Indian students can apply for Stanford University admissions by following the below mentioned steps:
- Select your course.
- Check the admission requirements.
- Prepare for the admission test (GMAT/GRE or SAT/ACT).
- Submit English language proficiency test scores.
- Upload required documents such as LORs, Essays, SOPs, etc.
- Attend the interview (on invitation).
- Pay the application fee
- Wait for the arrival of admissions decision.
Ques. Is it difficult to get admission in Stanford University?
Ans. With an acceptance rate of only 3.9%, Stanford University is one of the toughest universities to get into. However, it's not impossible to secure admissions at Stanford for applicants who demonstrate strong academic background with exceptional non-academic achievements, leadership potential and analytical skills.
Ques. What time do Stanford decisions come out?
Ans. Stanford University announces decisions for Master's degree in Early March and for PhD in Early April. Decisions for undergraduate admissions are issued on the following dates:
Decision Type | Decision Dates |
---|---|
Early Action | Mid-December |
Regular Decision | Early April |
Ques. How does Stanford notify applicants of decisions?
Ans. Stanford University notifies applicants about their admission decisions through the Stanford Portal and via official email. The applicants can login into the Stanford Portal using the credentials provided via email.
Ques. Is IELTS required for Stanford University?
Ans. IELTS is generally Not required for majority of undergraduate and graduate programs at Stanford University. The university majorly accepts TOEFL for admissions with a score of 100 or above. However, the IELTS can be accepted in lieu of TOEFL scores for MBA program. A minimum band score of 7.0 in IELTS test is required for Stanford MBA.
Ques. What GPA fo you need to get into Stanford University?
Ans. To secure admission to Stanford University, Indian students need a competitive GPA of 3.9 (94%) in previous academic program. If your percentage is lower than this, then you need to compensate with standardised test score like SAT, GMAT or supplementary documents like Personal Essay, Reference letters.
Ques. When do admissions start at Stanford?
Ans. The admission cycle varies for Stanford University courses, depending on the type of program.
Category | Submission |
---|---|
UG Early Action Deadline | Early November |
UG Regular Decision Deadline | Early January |
Graduate Programs | Mid-September |
MBA Program | Mid-September: January 6April 6 |
Ques. Is SAT score required for Stanford?
Ans. For 2025 admissions, Stanford University is not offering test-optional scheme. Therefore SAT or ACT score are required by first-year students for consideration at Stanford.
Ques. What all courses are available for International students at Stanford University in 2025?
Ans. International students planning to study at Stanford University can choose from 200 graduate programs and 69 undergraduate programs. More than 50% of the prospective students apply for STEM disciplines at the university.
Ques. What all documents are need for admission at Stanford?
Ans. The application documents for international applicants are:
- Transcripts and mark sheets
- School report cards and counsellor recommendation letters
- Recommendation letter from Professor or Teacher
- Standardised test score: GRE/GMAT
- TOEFL score or IELTS Score
- Statement of Purpose
College Student Profiles
Stanford University Program Fees & Deadlines
Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MBA 2 years | Round 1 Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (9th Sep 2025) Round 2 Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (7th Jan 2026) Round 3 Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (7th Apr 2026) | INR 73.3 L/Yr USD 85,755 /Yr | 275 | GPA 3.75/4, Ielts 7, Toefl 113 | |
MSc Computer Science 2 years | Application deadline for Autumn Intake (3rd Dec 2025) | INR 55.6 L/Yr USD 65,082 /Yr | 125 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL: 89 | |
Application Deadline For Fall 2026 Intake (3rd Dec 2025) | INR 55.6 L/Yr USD 65,082 /Yr | 125 | TOEFL: 100 | ||
Application deadline for Autumn Intake (3rd Dec 2025) Decision date for Autumn Intake (1st Mar 2026) | INR 26.1 L/Yr USD 30,555 /Yr | 125 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL: 89 | ||
Ph.D Computer Science 5 years | Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (2nd Dec 2025) | INR 78.3 L/Yr USD 91,665 /Yr | 125 | 3.0 GPA, TOEFL: 89, GRE: 328 | |
B.A Psychology 4 years | Early Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025) Decision Released By (15th Dec 2025) Regular Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (5th Jan 2026) | INR 74.2 L/Yr USD 86,836 /Yr | 90 | TOEFL : 100, IELTS: 7.0 | |
B.S Computer Science 4 years | Early Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025) Decision Released By (15th Dec 2025) Regular Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (5th Jan 2026) | INR 74.2 L/Yr USD 86,836 /Yr | 90 | GPA 2.0, SAT: 328 | |
M.B.A Finance 2 years | Round 1 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake (10th Sep 2025) Round 2 Application Deadline for 2026 Intake (8th Jan 2026) | INR 23.5 L/Yr USD 27,485 /Yr | 275 | GPA 3.75/4, TOEFL : 100, IELTS: 7.0 | |
Early Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (1st Nov 2025) Decision Released By (15th Dec 2025) Regular Application Deadline For 2026 Intake (5th Jan 2026) | INR 57.9 L/Yr USD 67,731 /Yr | 90 | GPA 3.6, IELTS: 7.0, TOEFL: 100 | ||
L.L.M 2 years | Application Deadline For Autumn 2025 Intake (3rd Dec 2025) | INR 66.2 L/Yr USD 77,454 /Yr | 125 | GPA 3.0, TOEFL : 89 |
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Overview
Stanford University School of Engineering had a very good ranking for engineering. Also, compared to other colleges, the admission process was very straightforward and hence easier to complete. My overall experience at Stanford University is best. I like the academics and facilities provided to the students and the International Student Department is very helpful and understanding.
Overview
As we all know Stanford comes in the top 10 colleges for education. I took Stanford because they were offering the program in which I want to do my career. Also, the fact that it is one of the best universities in the world was a major yes.
Scholarship
Yeah I did receive a scholarship from Stanford where I had a huge discount on my fees they asked me to introduce myself on a paper and I did.
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Stanford is fantastic for aspiring entrepreneurs and allows me to explore a variety of disciplines while mingling with peers who rank among the most hard-working and creative in the world that inspires me and helps me grow.
Scholarship
100% financial aid.
Overview
It was close in proximity to my home, has great academics and faculty, chill atmosphere/vibe, beautiful campus, lots of resources and opportunities, highly ranked University, students who go here are happy
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Comments
Found 2 Comments
Yes, you can apply to Stanford University after completing your class 12th (high school). Admission is highly competitive and requires a strong academic record, typically a high GPA (around 3.96 or above), and often standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), IELTS/TOEFL scores, Letters Of Recommendation, extracurriculars, etc.
Yes you can get into Stanford after class 12th.
Stanford University does not have a strict minimum GPA requirement for undergraduate admissions. However, admitted students typically have very high GPAs, ranging from 3.8 to 4.0, with an average GPA of 3.9.