Is Stanford Your Dream School?

Stanford University is at the top of many students’ lists —and for good reason. It’s a place where innovation, creativity, and scholarship intersect. Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Stanford students have access to top technology, engineering, and biotech firms, as well as a vibrant, diverse community in the San Francisco Bay Area.

If you're captivated by cutting-edge research, an active campus culture, and a community that encourages big ideas and bold thinking, Stanford might just be your perfect fit.

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Stanford Admissions Statistics (Class of 2028)

• Total Applications: 53,326
• Students Admitted: 2,067
• Overall Acceptance Rate: 3.61%

Middle 50% SAT Scores:

• Composite: 1540
• Math: 790
• Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 760

Middle 50% ACT Scores:

• Composite: 35
• Math: 35
• English: 35
• Science: 35
• Reading: 36

High School Academic Stats:

• Percent in top 10% of graduating class: 97.8%
• GPA of 4.0: 73.3%
• GPA between 3.75–3.99: 16.5%

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Application Deadlines

• Restrictive Early Action (REA): November 1
• Regular Decision: January 5

Decision Release Dates:

• Mid-December for REA
• Early April for Regular Decision

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Stanford’s Application Requirements

1. Common Application
Complete the Common App, including personal information, academic history, activities, and the 650-word personal essay.

2. Stanford Supplement
In addition to your personal essay, Stanford requires several short-answer prompts and one longer essay. These are your opportunity to show your personality, voice, and values.

2024–2025 Stanford Supplement Prompts:

• Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning. (100–250 words)
• Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you. (100–250 words)
• Tell us about something meaningful to you and why. (100–250 words)
• What is the most significant challenge society faces today? (50 words)
• How did you spend your last two summers? (50 words)
• What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed? (50 words)
• Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job, or family responsibilities. (50 words)
• Name one thing you’re looking forward to experiencing at Stanford. (50 words)

3. Transcripts and School Reports
Your school counselor submits a Secondary School Report, official transcript, and school profile. A Midyear Report with first-semester senior grades is also required when available.

4. Letters of Recommendation
Two academic teacher recommendations, preferably from different subject areas, are required.

5. Standardized Testing
Stanford is currently test-optional for the 2024–2025 cycle. However, starting with the 2025–2026 application cycle, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) will be required. Stanford emphasizes holistic review — there’s no minimum score required, and no score guarantees admission.

6. Optional Arts Portfolio
Students with exceptional talents in Art Practice, Dance, Music, or Theater and Performance Studies may submit an Arts Portfolio. You may only submit a portfolio in one of these areas.

• Portfolio Deadlines:
  • October 20 for REA
  • December 10 for Regular Decision

7. Alumni Interview
Stanford offers optional alumni interviews based on availability in your area.

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Tips for a Standout Stanford Application

• Be authentic. Stanford values honest, reflective, and personal responses.
• Show intellectual curiosity. Highlight your enthusiasm for learning and how you engage with ideas outside of class.
• Demonstrate your impact. Share experiences where you’ve made a difference, pursued a passion, or shaped your community.
• Stay organized. Keep track of deadlines, requirements, and essay drafts — start early to give yourself time to reflect and revise.

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Need Help or Advice?

Looking for additional guidance or application review support? Feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you through every step of the process!

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