How to Get into Stanford University from India?: Complete Guide!

12 min read

Have you heard that Stanford University is ranked 6th worldwide according to the QS ranking?

Stanford University is situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, California. It is known for its world-known research facilities and ranked #2 globally by THE rankings.

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Stanford is a truly global university. With over 17,326 students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs from over 90 countries worldwide, it is a truly global university. Nearly 500 Indian students enroll at Stanford every year. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 5:1, students receive personalised attention from experienced faculty members. 

Keep reading to learn more about how to get into Stanford University. From eligibility to placements, we have got you covered. Let’s dive in.

Why Choose Stanford University?

Stanford University is renowned for its research excellence and is home to many world-class research centres and institutes. It offers various programs across disciplines.

Here are five reasons why you should choose Stanford University:

  1. Outstanding Rankings: According to the Times Higher Education ranking, Stanford University was ranked #2 worldwide. It was also ranked #3 by the US News & World Report and #6 by the QS World Ranking. These rankings indicate that Stanford is one of the top universities in the world.
  2.  A Course Buffet: Stanford University offers multiple undergraduate and graduate courses. According to the university’s website, there are over 65 major fields of study, and students can choose from more than 90 graduate areas of study
  3. Scholarships and Financial Aid: Stanford University offers a variety of scholarships, both need-based and merit-based, for undergraduate and graduate students. The university’s website states that approximately 70% of undergraduate students receive financial aid, and the average need-based scholarship is around INR 37L (USD 44,000). 

How to get into Stanford University: Admission Requirements

Due to the admission process, getting admitted to Stanford is pretty competitive. You must meet various academic and extracurricular requirements and possess exceptional personal qualities. Stanford University eligibility for Indian students must be met to secure admission into the university.

Let’s look at Stanford University’s admission requirements for Indian students.

The undergraduate requirements for applying to Stanford University are as follows:

  • You must pay the application fee of USD 90 (INR 7500).
  • You need to submit the Common Application.
  • You must pay a non-refundable application fee of $90 or request a fee waiver. 
  • You can provide ACT or SAT scores (test optional) 
  • You must submit the School Report form and a counsellor’s letter of recommendation.
  • You must provide official transcript(s) or academic results from all high schools attended.
  • You need to submit two letters of recommendation from teachers who have taught the student in academic subjects.
  • You need to submit the midyear transcript (X Certificate).
  • They don’t have mandated English proficiency requirements, but you should take TOEFL/IELTS if your primary language in school is not English.

The graduate requirements for applying to Stanford University are as follows:

  • You must pay the application fee of USD 125 (~INR 10K)
  • You must have a 4-year long bachelor’s degree.
  • You need to submit transcripts for every post-secondary institution.
  • You need to submit a Statement of Purpose (1000 words).
  • You must take the IELTS exam and score 7.0 or TOEFL exam and score 89 for engineering and 100 for all other programs.
  • You must submit 3 letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
  • You must take the GRE/GMAT/MCAT/LSAT exams per your program requirements.

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Documents Required for Stanford University

Every admission process requires some documents to be submitted for the application process. Admissions committees expect a complete application. Missing documents can lead to delays or even disqualification from the process.

It’s advisable to start collecting documents well in advance of the application deadlines. Ideally, you should begin this process at least **6 to 12 months** before you plan to submit your application. This timeline allows ample time for gathering, verifying, and submitting all necessary documents without last-minute stress.

Let’s take a look at the documents required at Stanford University:

  • Academic Transcripts from class XII and bachelor’s
  • Standardised test scores, if required by your program
  • 2-3 Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • TOEFL and IELTS scores
  • Resume, if required
  • Class X & XI transcripts (if required for your program)

How to get into Stanford University: Application Process

When considering admission to Stanford University, it’s important to understand that the institution does not solely seek out “perfect students.” Instead, Stanford looks for individuals who align with its core values of innovation, impact, and intellectual curiosity. 

This perspective reflects a broader understanding of what it means to be a successful member of the Stanford community. It’s also worth noting that Stanford has one of the most competitive admissions processes globally. 

Thousands of applicants vie for a limited number of spots each year, making the selection rigorous and selective. Moreover, Stanford values students who think long-term and aspire to positively impact society.

Here are the steps to apply for admission to Stanford University:

1. Research and choose the program that best suits your academic interests.

2. Check the admission requirements and application deadlines for your chosen program.

3. Create an account on the Stanford University application portal.

4. Fill in the application form with your personal and academic details.

5. Pay the application fee.

6. Submit official transcripts from all high schools and post-secondary institutions attended.

7. Submit standardised test scores (if required by your program).

8. Provide letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.

9. Write and submit your Statement of Purpose (if your program requires it).

10. Submit other required documents, such as proof of English proficiency if you have yet to learn your first language.

11. Wait for the admission decision, which usually takes a few months.

12. If accepted, submit the required documents and fees to confirm enrollment.

Top 10 Courses at Standford University

Stanford University offers three undergraduate degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Sciences, and Bachelor of Arts and Sciences. These programs balance specialisation and exploration, ensuring students gain in-depth knowledge and a broad perspective.

Stanford University comprises seven schools, three of which are dedicated to undergraduate programs and the remaining four to graduate–level studies.

The following are the 7 schools

  • The School of Humanities and Sciences, 
  • The School of Engineering
  • The Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability
  • Stanford Graduate School of Business
  • Stanford Law School
  • Stanford School of Medicine

Stanford University has a quarter system, meaning there are four annual intakes. The academic year is divided into three quarters, with an optional fourth summer quarter.

  • Fall Semester
  • Winter Semester
  • Spring Semester

Let’s look at some of Stanford University’s fees for Indian students, along with top undergraduate and graduate courses:

CoursesAverage Annual Fees in USDAverage Annual Fees in INR
Bachelor of Arts in Economics61,73138L
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics61,73138L
Bachelor of Engineering in Architecture Design61,73138L
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry61,73138L
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering61,73138L
Masters in Business Administration79,86049L
Masters in Management for Experienced Leaders138,64085L
Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering62,58039L
Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering62,58039L
Doctor of Medicine87,12453L

Cost of Living at Stanford University for International Students

Stanford University might be your dream school, but the cost of living in the USA must be considered.  It’s essential to factor this into your decision-making process. 

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Housing Costs: The university provides a standard budget outlining expenses, with housing and food costing upwards of $20k annually for undergraduates.
  • Everyday Expenses: Stanford’s groceries, transportation, and personal expenses are slightly pricier than the national average. Make wise use of student discounts.
  • Factor in Healthcare: Stanford requires students to have health insurance; plans can add to your overall expenses.

The good news is that Stanford offers generous financial aid packages to many students. Explore scholarship and grant opportunities to help offset the high cost of living.

Here is a detailed analysis of the cost of living at Stanford University:

ParameterCost per month in USDCost per month in INR
Housing & Food19,92212L
Student fees allowance2,2051.3L
Books and Supplies Allowance82551K
Personal Expenses Allowance3,1502L
Monthly Travel Pass726003

Top Scholarships: Stanford University

Stanford University offers a variety of scholarships for graduate students, both need-based and merit-based. 

Stanford University offers scholarships to help undergraduates cover their educational expenses. Donations from individuals and corporations usually fund these scholarships. 

The university determines a student’s scholarship eligibility based on their financial needs, which is determined through the CSS Profile. 

The university calculates a student’s scholarship amount by subtracting the amount that the student and their parents are expected to contribute, along with other federal and state grant funds, from the total cost of attendance.

Here are some Stanford University scholarships for Indian students:

ScholarshipEligibilityValue
Knight-Hennessy Scholarship -Tuition Fees stipend for living and academic expenses, including room and board, books, academic supplies, transportation, and personal expenses -A travel stipend for a round-trip economy-class ticket to and from Stanford once a year.Open for international students
Two essential requirements for eligibility:
Apply, be accepted, and enrol full-time in a Stanford graduate degree program such as JD, MBA, MA, MS, PhD, or MFA. To be eligible for the program, you must meet at least one of the four conditions.
Apply simultaneously to both KHS and a full-time Stanford graduate degree program. Defer admission to a full-time Stanford graduate degree program. Eligible if you add a second full-time Stanford graduate degree program. Being a first-year Stanford PhD student also meets one of the eligibility criteria.
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai FellowshipThe Stanford MBA Program entails tuition fees and other course-related expenses the student must bear. A stipend is also available to cover living expenses and other educational expenses.The Stanford MBA Program entails tuition fees and other course-related expenses the student must bear. 
A stipend is also available to cover living expenses and other educational expenses.

Here are some externally funded scholarships to study at Stanford:

External ScholarshipsBenefits
Inlaks Shivdasani FoundationThe foundation covers tuition fees, living expenses, and one-way travel allowances. The scholarship amount may differ based on the student’s financial requirements and the program of study.
TATA Scholarship for Indian studentsEach scholar can receive a scholarship from INR 60,000 to INR 4 Lakhs.
Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial ScholarshipThe foundation covers tuition fees, living expenses, and one-way travel allowances. The scholarship amount may differ based on the student’s financial requirements and the program of study.

Does Stanford Lead to High-Paying Jobs?

Stanford University is renowned for its academic programs and has a high job placement rate for its graduates. The Career Development Center (CDC) at Stanford provides various services to assist undergraduate and graduate students in their career planning. These services include counselling, workshops, job/internship databases, on-campus recruiting, reference file services, library resources, and alumni networking

Students are encouraged to use these resources to make informed decisions about their future and prepare for life after graduation.

According to Glassdoor, the average salary for Stanford graduates was approximately INR 80L (USD 95,728)

Many top companies recruit Stanford graduates, and the university has a strong alumni network. 

Let’s look at some of the top recruiters for Stanford University.

  1. Bain & Company
  2. Facebook
  3. Deloitte
  4. IBM
  5. Instagram
  6. LinkedIn
  7. Microsoft

Quick Tips: How to get admission to Stanford University?

Stanford University is incredibly selective, but with dedication and strategic planning, you can increase your chances of admission.

Here are some essential tips to get into Stanford:

  • Strive for Strong Grades: Aim for a near-perfect GPA, ideally above 3.95. Take challenging courses to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and ability to handle rigorous academics.
  • Standardised Tests: While test-optional policies are becoming more common, scoring well on the SAT or ACT can still strengthen your application. Aim for scores above the 75th percentile for admitted students (typically around 1500 on the SAT).
  • Develop Your Passions: Pursue extracurricular activities you’re genuinely passionate about. Don’t just spread yourself thin – focus on achieving depth and leadership within a few key areas.
  • Demonstrate Impact: Show how your extracurricular activities positively impact your community or field. Did you win awards, start a club, or volunteer extensively? Highlight these achievements.
  • Tell Your Story: Craft compelling essays that showcase your unique voice, experiences, and aspirations. Use the Stanford essays to demonstrate intellectual vitality, purpose, and the challenges you’ve overcome.

While acceptance is competitive, a well-rounded application that showcases your academic prowess, genuine passions, and potential to contribute to Stanford’s vibrant community will put you on the right track.

If you find yourself in a difficult situation and require assistance studying abroad, LeapScholar is available to help. Our team of specialists can help you complete the application process and attain your academic aspirations.

And if you’re considering other options like the UK, Canada and Australia, we’ve got you covered, too. Schedule a free consultation with our experts today for personalised guidance and advice.

Also Read:

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. What are the Stanford University requirements for International Students?

    A. International students who want to enrol at Stanford University must complete the same application process as domestic applicants. They must submit their academic transcripts, standardised test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, international students must demonstrate proficiency in English by taking either the TOEFL or IELTS exam.

  • Q. What is the Stanford University acceptance rate?

    A. Stanford University is one of the most selective universities in the world, with an acceptance rate of around 4.4% for the class of 2024. This means that out of the more than 47,000 students who applied for admission, only about 2,057 were accepted. The university’s admission process is highly competitive, and successful applicants typically have exceptional academic credentials, unique extracurricular experiences, and compelling personal essays.

  • Q. What are some of the most popular courses at Stanford University?

    A. Stanford University offers various courses across various fields. Some of the most popular undergraduate majors include 
    Bachelor in Computer Science, 
    Bachelor in Economics
    Master in Business Administration
    Master in Mechanical Engineering

  • Q. What is the duration of UG courses at Stanford University?

    A. Undergraduate courses at Stanford University typically last four years. Students must complete 180 coursework units, including major courses, general education requirements, and elective courses. Some programs, such as a senior thesis or capstone project, may have additional requirements.

  • Q. What are some additional application requirements beyond academics?

    A. The University of Stanford evaluates applications based on academic and non-academic factors. In addition to academic transcripts and test scores, non-academic factors such as extracurricular activities, volunteer work, leadership experience, and personal statements are also considered. Some programs may require additional materials such as essays, portfolios, or interviews. Applicants must review the specific requirements for their program of interest to ensure they submit a complete and competitive application.

  • Q. What are Stanford’s application fees?

    A. Applicants must pay an application fee when applying to the University of Stanford. The fee for undergraduate programs is $90 (INR 7500), while the fee for graduate programs is $125 (INR 10,000). This fee is non-refundable and must be paid online via credit card or other accepted forms of payment. 

  • Q. How can I get into Stanford from India?

    A. Getting admission to Stanford from India requires a rigorous application process. You must have exceptional academic records, extracurricular activities, standardised test scores, and recommendation letters. Additionally, you need to showcase your unique qualities and achievements that make you stand out from other applicants. A well-crafted essay and interview are also recommended to impress the admissions committee. Moreover, being aware of the application deadlines and submitting the application well in advance is crucial.

  • Q. Does Stanford have online courses for international students?

    A. Stanford offers online courses for international students through its Stanford Online platform. These courses cover a wide range of topics and are designed to be flexible and accessible. Some courses are free, while others require payment of a fee. Students can earn a certificate upon completion of specific courses. It’s best to check the Stanford Online website for more information on available courses and enrollment requirements.

  • Q. What is student life like at Stanford?

    A. Student life at Stanford is vibrant, diverse, and engaging. With over 600 student organisations, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities. The campus offers a range of amenities and facilities, including dining halls, sports facilities, and libraries. Stanford is also located in the heart of Silicon Valley, providing students access to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

  • Q. What is the average salary for Stanford graduates?

    A. The average salary for Stanford graduates varies depending on the field of study and the level of education. According to Glassdoor, the salary of a Stanford graduate is $95,728 (INR 60L). It also depends on the industry, job title, and location.

  • Q. What documents are required for admission to Stanford?

    A. If you apply to Stanford University, you must submit 
    a completed Common Application, 
    Stanford Supplement, high school transcripts, 
    Standardised test scores (either the SAT or ACT), 
    Two teacher evaluations, 
    A mid-year report
    Additionally, international students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores and provide financial certification. It’s important to check Stanford’s website for any updates to the application requirements.

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Prachi Sethi

Hi, I am Prachi, an experienced writer with extensive knowledge about the study abroad domain in particular countries such as the USA and Canada and other popular courses.
My expertise in SEO allows me to create high-quality content that engages and informs students and helps them fulfil their International Dreams.

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