Which documents do I need to submit for a master's or PhD application to Stanford?
For postgraduate and doctoral courses, Stanford asks for an application form, a statement of purpose (length is programme-specific), a resume or CV, three recommendation letters, unofficial transcripts at first, and GRE and TOEFL scores where the programme requires them. Most items are uploaded online, so no paper copies are needed.
For a Stanford master's or doctoral application, you need to prepare an online application, a statement of purpose, a CV, three recommendation letters, unofficial transcripts at first, and GRE and TOEFL scores where your programme requires them. Most of these are uploaded with the online application, so you will not need to post paper copies.
Postgraduate and Doctoral Document Checklist
| Document | Detail |
|---|---|
| Application form | Completed online on the official website |
| Statement of purpose | Length and format are programme-specific; often one to two pages, 12-point font, one-inch margins |
| Resume or CV | Your current academic and work profile |
| Letters of recommendation | Three, from professors or employers |
| Transcripts | Unofficial transcripts are enough at first, from the universities you have attended |
| GRE scores | Standardised test score record, needed only if your programme requires it |
| TOEFL score | English proficiency test, programme-specific |
How This Differs from Undergraduate Applications
Undergraduate applicants follow a different set, which includes a counsellor recommendation, a school report, a midyear transcript, two teacher letters and ACT or SAT results. Do not mix the two lists when you plan your paperwork.
My Advice
Start with your recommenders, since three strong letters take the longest to arrange. Then draft your statement of purpose to the stated length and formatting so you do not have to cut it late. Confirm the exact test requirements on your department page before you book any exam.
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