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If you’re planning to apply to Stanford University, you’re probably wondering whether it’s better to apply through Restrictive Early Action (REA) or wait for Regular Decision — and whether either option gives you a noticeable edge. Unlike some other top schools, Stanford doesn’t release detailed breakdowns by application round. Still, here’s what we do know — and how it can help you build a smarter application strategy.
For the Class of 2028, Stanford received over 52,000 applications and admitted 2,067 students, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 3.61%.
For the Class of 2029, Stanford has not yet released official acceptance rate data. These numbers are expected to be published in the fall of 2025, when universities are required to report admissions statistics to the U.S. Department of Education.
Stanford does not publish specific acceptance rates for REA vs. Regular Decision — including for the Class of 2028 and several years prior. Any numbers floating around are typically based on independent estimates or extrapolations from older data.
That said, many admissions experts estimate that Stanford admits between 700–800 students in the REA round, from an early applicant pool likely in the 7,000–9,000 range. That would suggest a potential REA admit rate of 8–10% for the class of 2028, but again — this is speculative and has not been confirmed by Stanford.
Stanford Acceptance Rate Comparison (REA vs. Overall)
Class of 2023
Class of 2022
Class of 2021
Historically, applying Restrictive Early Action (REA) to Stanford has offered a noticeable edge. Based on the most recent available data, early applicants were admitted at nearly twice the rate of the overall pool. However, there are important caveats to keep in mind when interpreting these numbers.
The REA applicant pool tends to be especially competitive. It often includes legacy students, recruited athletes, and some of the most academically accomplished applicants overall. Because Stanford’s REA program is non-binding but restrictive, many top students choose it as their early option since they don’t want to commit to a binding Early Decision program elsewhere.
A higher early admit rate doesn’t mean the process is “easier.” The REA pool is more self-selecting and academically strong. That said, if Stanford is your top choice and your application is ready by the November deadline, applying early can be a smart strategy. It not only offers a statistical advantage but also signals to the admissions committee that you are serious about attending if admitted.
Total Students Enrolled: 1,693
High School Background:
Geographic Diversity:
Gender Balance:
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!
If you’re planning to apply to Stanford University, you’re probably wondering whether it’s better to apply through Restrictive Early Action (REA) or wait for Regular Decision — and whether either option gives you a noticeable edge. Unlike some other top schools, Stanford doesn’t release detailed breakdowns by application round. Still, here’s what we do know — and how it can help you build a smarter application strategy.
For the Class of 2028, Stanford received over 52,000 applications and admitted 2,067 students, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 3.61%.
For the Class of 2029, Stanford has not yet released official acceptance rate data. These numbers are expected to be published in the fall of 2025, when universities are required to report admissions statistics to the U.S. Department of Education.
Stanford does not publish specific acceptance rates for REA vs. Regular Decision — including for the Class of 2028 and several years prior. Any numbers floating around are typically based on independent estimates or extrapolations from older data.
That said, many admissions experts estimate that Stanford admits between 700–800 students in the REA round, from an early applicant pool likely in the 7,000–9,000 range. That would suggest a potential REA admit rate of 8–10% for the class of 2028, but again — this is speculative and has not been confirmed by Stanford.
Stanford Acceptance Rate Comparison (REA vs. Overall)
Class of 2023
Class of 2022
Class of 2021
Historically, applying Restrictive Early Action (REA) to Stanford has offered a noticeable edge. Based on the most recent available data, early applicants were admitted at nearly twice the rate of the overall pool. However, there are important caveats to keep in mind when interpreting these numbers.
The REA applicant pool tends to be especially competitive. It often includes legacy students, recruited athletes, and some of the most academically accomplished applicants overall. Because Stanford’s REA program is non-binding but restrictive, many top students choose it as their early option since they don’t want to commit to a binding Early Decision program elsewhere.
A higher early admit rate doesn’t mean the process is “easier.” The REA pool is more self-selecting and academically strong. That said, if Stanford is your top choice and your application is ready by the November deadline, applying early can be a smart strategy. It not only offers a statistical advantage but also signals to the admissions committee that you are serious about attending if admitted.
Total Students Enrolled: 1,693
High School Background:
Geographic Diversity:
Gender Balance:
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!
Former Admissions Officer, Harvard University
Former Assistant Dean, Stanford University
As a College Counselor I help students navigate the college admissions process. My goal is to help students stand out and get accepted to their top-choice schools.
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