Private nonprofit Institution

Stanford University — Stanford, California

Compare Visit Website
Annual Tuition $62,484

Estimated Out-of-Pocket

Acceptance 3.9%

Most Selective

Enrollment 7,841

Active Students

Avg. Salary $124,080

After 10 Years

Institutional Profile

Location Stanford, California
Institution type Private nonprofit
Accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Founded 12/1/1965

Academic Mission & Environment

"Stanford University stands as a pillar of higher education in Stanford, providing a robust academic foundation for 7,841 students. The institution is recognized for its dedication to career-ready outcomes and community impact."

Campus Setting Urban Campus
Student Focus High Employment ROI

What programs does Stanford University offer?

Discover the most popular degrees and fields of study at Stanford University. These programs represent the institution's primary areas of academic focus and professional preparation.

Computer Science
18.6%

Enrollment Share

Engineering
16.4%

Enrollment Share

Multi/Interdisciplinary
16%

Enrollment Share

Social Sciences
15.5%

Enrollment Share

Mathematics
5.6%

Enrollment Share

Physical Sciences
4.5%

Enrollment Share

Institutional Choice

Best Computer Science College

The Computer Science department is a hub for cutting-edge research...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Engineering College

The Engineering curriculum focuses on innovation and real-world problem solving...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Multi/Interdisciplinary College

The Multi/Interdisciplinary program at Stanford University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Social Sciences College

The Social Sciences program at Stanford University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Mathematics College

The Mathematics program at Stanford University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited
Institutional Choice

Best Physical Sciences College

The Physical Sciences program at Stanford University provides a comprehensive education...

Strategic Profile Audited

What is the acceptance rate at Stanford University?

Admissions & Selectivity Dashboard — 2026

Acceptance 3.9%
Difficulty Extremely High

Stanford University maintains an acceptance rate of 3.9%, reflecting its status as a most selective institution. The admissions process evaluates academic potential alongside standardized testing trends to ensure a balanced student body.

Test Requirement SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required.

Student Body Composition

Men Enrollment 48.3%
Women Enrollment 51.7%

Test Score Ranges (25th - 75th Percentile)

SAT Reading 740 - 780
SAT Mathematics 770 - 800
ACT English 35 - 36
ACT Mathematics 32 - 35
Expert Insight

Competitive scores often fall within or exceed these typical 50% benchmarks for admitted students.

How much does Stanford University cost in 2026?

In-State Tuition $62,484
Out-of-State Tuition $62,484

Financial Support Snapshot

Pell Grant Rate 19.2%
Median Student Debt $12,000

ROI Insight

With a tuition of only $62,484, graduates see a median starting salary of $124,080, making it one of the most affordable pathways in California.

What salary can Stanford University graduates expect?

Avg. Early Career Salary $124,080

10 years after entry

Graduation Rate 92.8%

Investment Analysis & ROI

Average Net Price $12,136
Median Salary (6yr) $102,887
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio Above Average
Career Stability Index High

What is student life like at Stanford University in Stanford?

7,841 Students

Gender Comparison

48.3% Men
51.7% Women
Male Enrollment Female Enrollment

Retention & Enrollment

97.8%
Retention First-year
0%
Full-time Enrollment

Diversity & Ethnicity

American Indian
0.8%
Pacific Islander
0.2%
Asian
27.5%
Black
7.9%
White
24.2%
Unknown
0.4%
Hispanic
17.7%
Two or More Races
9.6%
International
11.8%

Campus Demographics

🎂
Avg. Age at Entry 19
🎓
First-Generation 30.3%
💰
Receive Pell Grant 65%

Student Economic Background

Median Household Income $80,275
Average Family Income $80,447
Median Family Income $44,842

Faculty Profile

Faculty Gender

56%
44%
Women Men
Premium Campus Location

Explore the Stanford Campus Environment

Located at , Stanford University offers a strategic urban setting that connects students with the economic and cultural heart of California. Use our verified map utility to plan your visit or explore nearby professional hubs.

Campus Setting Urban / Metropolitan
Access High Connectivity
Get Directions Open in Google Maps

Common Questions about Stanford University

Is Stanford University a good college in Stanford, California?
Stanford University is a recognized institution in Stanford with an enrollment of 7,841 students. It is accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission and offers a robust ROI for students in California based on Department of Education data.
Is Stanford University worth attending in 2026?
Yes, Stanford University offers exceptional value with an average net price of $0 and median graduate earnings of $124,080. The institution's focus on professional outcomes makes it a strong investment for 2026.
How much does Stanford University cost for California residents in 2026?
For the 2026 academic year, in-state tuition at Stanford University is approximately $62,484. In addition, out-of-state tuition is $62,484. Financial aid and Pell Grants significantly reduce this cost for most local residents.
What is the real cost of Stanford University after financial aid and FAFSA?
The real cost of attending Stanford University for most students is its average net price of $0. Approximately 65% of students receive Pell Grants and FAFSA-based aid to offset costs.
Is Stanford University good for Computer Science and Engineering programs?
Stanford University is highly regarded for its Computer Science and Engineering programs. These tracks are among the most popular, preparing students for immediate career entry.
What career can I get after attending Stanford University?
Graduates of Stanford University often transition into high-demand roles in fields like Computer Science. With a median salary of $124,080, the college provides a clear pathway to professional advancement.
What are the admission requirements for Stanford University?
Stanford University operates with a Most Selective policy. This typically includes a simplified application process focused on accessibility and student success regardless of past standardized test scores.
Does Stanford University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
No, Stanford University follows a test-optional approach for the 2026 cycle. Standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT are not required for general admission.
What salary can Stanford University graduates expect after 10 years?
Graduates of Stanford University earn a median salary of $124,080 after 10 years. This demonstrates long-term professional stability and growth.
Is Stanford University a good investment compared to other CA colleges?
Stanford University stands out as a high-value investment in California. With an average net price of only $0, it offers one of the most affordable pathways to a degree and a professional career in the state.
Where is Stanford University located and what is the campus like?
Stanford University is located at its campus in Stanford, CA. The campus provides a dynamic environment serving a diverse student body of 7,841 learners.
Who typically attends Stanford University in Stanford, CA?
The student body at Stanford University is diverse and career-focused. Approximately 30.3% are first-generation students, reflecting a community of motivated, real-world learners.
🏆

2026 Rankings: California

Explore top-tier academic pathways across the state

Compare Stanford University with other leading institutions in California across various professional disciplines. Our verified data audits provide transparency on career ROI and academic quality.

N
Nursing
B
Business Administration
C
Computer Science
M
Medical
P
Psychology
E
Engineering
C
Criminal Justice
S
Social Work
A
Accounting
M
Marketing
C
Cybersecurity
F
Finance
B
Biotechnology
M
Mechanical Engineering
P
Public Administration
F
Fire Protection
I
International Business
I
Information Science
C
Civil Engineering
J
Journalism
G
Graphic Communications
C
Computer Engineering
D
Data Science
L
Law
A
Architecture
E
Education
L
Liberal Arts
🧭

Local Discovery Hub

Explore specialized academic pathways in Stanford

Degrees & Research Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Professional Training Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Career Opportunities Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Affordable Tuition Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Accredited Programs Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Leading Schools Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
International Support Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete
Community Colleges Computer Science Insights →
2026 Audit Complete

Looking for similar schools in California?

Our intelligence engine has audited 6,400+ institutions to find the best matches for your career goals.

View State Rankings →