Acceptance Rate for Stanford University for International Student 2024-2025 | Entry Requirements

Are you wondering what the acceptance rate for Stanford University for international student is? This guide will explore Stanford’s acceptance rate for international applicants and offer tips that will strengthen your application.

Stanford University is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the USA, known worldwide for its great teaching and learning.

It’s been one of the top 5 universities globally for a long time. Even though it’s really hard to get into, surprisingly, international students don’t have to prove they’re good at English to apply.

People from all over the world want to go to Stanford, but only a few get in because it’s super competitive.

Acceptance Rate for Stanford University for International Student

it’s quite competitive to get in. In recent years, the acceptance rate has dropped even lower.

For example, for the classes of 2025, the acceptance rate at Stanford University for international students is 4% which is very low. Out of every 100 students who apply, only around 4 are accepted.

That means in 2026, it was around 4 students out of every 100. This decline shows that it’s becoming even harder to get accepted.

To give you an idea of how many students apply, for the class of 2026, over 56,000 people applied, but only around 2,000 got accepted.

It’s a similar story for the class of 2024, where over 45,000 students applied and around 2,300 got in. Compared with Harvard University, which is also extremely selective, Stanford’s acceptance rate is slightly higher.

Harvard accepts around 3 students out of every 100, making it even tougher to get into than Stanford.

Both universities are among the best in the world, but they have very limited spots available, so getting accepted is a big achievement.

Entry Requirements for Stanford University

You need to have the following requirements and qualifications before applying to Stanford University:

1. Complete Online Application and Fee:

First, you must complete and submit the online application form that is located on the official website of the university.

Make sure that all the sections are filled correctly and submit the application fee of US$ 90 (INR 7,478*). The fee is meant to cater for the administrative expenses that are directly related to the application process.

2. Submit Academic Transcripts and Bachelor’s Degree:

Present official documents from all institutions you have studied in. You should possess at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution recognized by Stanford University.

4. Prepare a Comprehensive Resume/CV:

List your academic achievements, job history, extracurricular activities, and community work, as well as any other accomplishments in your resume or curriculum vitae (CV).

The main goal of this paper is not only to describe your educational credentials and experiences but also to highlight achievements that have not been mentioned in the academic record.

5. Craft a Statement of Purpose (SOP):

Write a great SOP that shows how you expect to succeed in your academic ambitions and professional aspirations, and why you have chosen to study at Stanford.

This time, you’ll be able to present the things you care about, the intellectual fire in you, and your view of life as well as philosophy and values that are more like those of Stanford.

6. Secure Letters of Recommendation (LORs):

Remember to have strong recommendation letters from people who can testify to your academic ability, character, and potential for success at Stanford.

You should select people who know you well enough to provide specifics on your qualifications and strengths as a reference.

7. Submit Standardized Test Scores:

Displaying your education level is also important, along with your performance in standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT.

For undergraduate admission, meet the minimum score requirements, which range from SAT: The Renaissance period was between 1500-1570 or ACT 33-35.

In graduate degree programs, make sure that you follow the specific requirements for your chosen specialization.

8. Maintain a High GPA:

Put your GPA at 3.9 – 4.0 or even higher to highlight your academic excellence and the ability to withstand pressure as well as to succeed in the rigorous curriculum of Stanford University.

How do I Increase My Chances of Getting Into Stanford?

Follow the tips below to increase your chance of admission:

1. Be Well-Rounded:

If you want to get accepted to the university, do not only be an excellent student academically.

But also show the university your talents outside the classroom like in extracurricular activities, leadership positions, and community projects.

For instance, you can emphasize your non-academic sides by mentioning your arts, music, sports, and anything that makes you stand out.

2. Demonstrate Entrepreneurial Spirit:

Point out the cases when you orally or in practice demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit, taking initiative, or leading a team.

Such examples prove your ability to creativity, initiative, and the possibility to make an impact.

In line with Stanford University, entrepreneurialism is regarded as a life skill that students should be able to acquire and instill with the desire to create innovative projects.

3. Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews:        

In case you are shortlisted, please read very carefully about their programs, faculty, culture, and campus.

Get to know how to talk about your academics, education plans, and personal stories with confidence and clarity.

It is your task to demonstrate how you enjoy Stanford and why you are enthusiastic about contributing to the school, making it even better.

4. Craft a Compelling Motivation Letter/Essay:

Your self-introduction or essay can render you outstanding among the other applicants by having some exceptional qualities.

Furthermore, this is the platform where you can demonstrate that you have a unique story of your own and that you have your values.

Be real, and honest, and mention the reasons why Stanford University is the best place for your intellectual and personal development.

Connect your essay with the goals and principles of Stanford while at the same time demonstrating your uniqueness and portraying the potential to contribute to a significant change.

Final Words

Stanford University is one of the most competitive universities for international students, with an acceptance rate of 4% only. This means that for every 100 applications, only 4 of them are admitted.

If you want to improve your chances of getting accepted, you must be an all-around bright student with good grades, involvement in extracurricular activities, and a powerful personal statement.

Get ready to show your entrepreneurial spirit and how are you going to give back to the Stanford community. Good luck with your academic pursuit at Stanford University!