Stanford University is a world-renowned research and teaching institution in the heart of Silicon Valley, about 30 miles from San Francisco. It was founded in 1891 as a coeducational, nondenominational institution – a rarity at the time – that was concerned with producing “cultured and useful citizens.” Today, human health, the environment and sustainability, international affairs, and the arts are key areas of study. The university consistently is recognized as one of the top institutions in the country, with U.S. News & World Report ranking it in the top five among national universities in its 2012 edition of the “Best Colleges” list.

Programs Offered

Stanford looks for students who exhibit energy, curiosity, and a love of learning – and its programs reflect the same. There are seven schools from which to study, including Earth Sciences, Engineering, and Humanities and Sciences, which offer undergraduate programs, and Business, Education, Law, and Medicine, which offer both undergraduate and graduate programs. An undergraduate education at Stanford is well-rounded, with classes in English, math, laboratory science, a foreign language, and history or social studies. When it comes time, there are nearly 100 majors and concentrations from which to choose. Many students also become involved faculty research or their own projects, or spend time off campus studying aboard or interning. Its graduate department offers more than 90 departments and programs of study.

Accreditation

Stanford University has been regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges since 1949. It also holds specialized accreditation from these associations: American Bar Association; American Psychological Association; Liaison Committee on Medical Education; and National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.

Admissions

For undergraduate admissions, Stanford uses the Common Application, as well as its own Stanford Supplement. Students must also submit their high school transcript, SAT or ACT plus writing scores, two teacher evaluations, and the Common Application essay. Supplementary credentials are strongly discouraged except for noted exceptions, including the arts supplement. Admission is only offered for the fall term. For graduate admissions, applicants must submit transcripts from every postsecondary institution attended for at least one year, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and GRE scores from within the past five years. Additional requirements may also vary by department.

Admissions Contact

Stanford University
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
355 Galvez Street
Stanford, CA 94305
(650) 723-2091
admission@standford.edu

Graduate Admissions
Office of the University Registrar
630 Serra Street, Suite 120
Standford, CA 94305
(866) 432-7472
gradadmissions@stanford.edu