How to Apply to Stanford University
A simple and step by step Pakistani student visa application guide for students from Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Philippines and others. Be clear on what and how to submit, and when.
Before you start
Applying to Stanford, made simple
The application process for admission to Stanford University is straightforward, though the actual admission process is difficult. But the process is far less daunting if you know what to do, and begin on time. This guide will lead you through the Stanford University's international student application process from the initial account sign up to the submission.
It is good to know what you're facing before you start. Don't be surprised by the Stanford University acceptance rate, the rankings and the complete Stanford University requirements.
The process
Seven steps to apply
Create your Common Application account
Stanford is an applicant of the Common Application. Create a free account, add Stanford to your list of colleges and complete basic information. Do this early to be able to break it up into steps.
Choose your application plan
Apply for Restrictive Early Action (due Nov. 1) or Regular Decision (due Jan. 5). Early Action is non-binding. For more details, visit our Stanford University application deadlines page.
Send your transcript and school report
An official transcript and school report are sent by your counselor. These will be directly from your school, not from you. If not in English, include a certified translation.
Request your recommendation letters
One letter from counselor, two from academic teachers. Let them know weeks in advance to not be rushed and have a written deadline.
Write your essays
Write one personal essay and Stanford's short questions. There is a minimum of 100 and a maximum of 250 words for each short essay. Be sincere and speak from your own point of view.
Add your test scores
First year applicants require ACT or SAT scores. There is no minimum score. If you've taken AP or IB or A-Levels, report that as well.
Pay the fee (or request a waiver) and submit
The cost of the application fee is $100. If it is a hardship, then ask for it to be waived (on the Common App) and have your counselor verify. Review and submit before 11:59pm your local time.
What you submit
Your application checklist
Each of your parts will be reviewed by Stanford in conjunction with the others, so that none of them can get you through individually. What to put in:
- Common Application: Personal essay and main form (common application).
- $100 fee or waiver:paid online or waived for hardship.
- ACT or SAT scores required (no minimums).
- Transcript and school report: sent by your school
- Three letters: one counselor, two teachers.
Please verify the list on the official admissions website of Stanford.
Mark your calendar
Key dates to remember
These are the 1st Year deadline dates. All times are in your local time zone at 11:59pm. See our application deadlines guide for a detailed breakdown, including transfer and financial aid deadlines.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Restrictive Early Action deadline | November 1 |
| Regular Decision deadline | January 5 |
| Financial aid priority (Intl, RD) | February 15 |
| Decision released by | Early April |
| Reply to your offer | May 1 |
Do not wait for admission to plan for money
Complete financial aid application with the application, not after. Understand the true cost and available support with Stanford University scholarships & tuition fees.
Graduate applicants
Applying for a graduate program?
The above are for first year undergraduates. Each department manages its own graduate program that has its own format, deadlines and requirements. Begin with the programme that you would like.
Master's
Transcripts, Essays and GRE submitted via the department portal.
Always check requirements on the official graduate admissions website.
Apply smarter
Tips for international applicants
- Begin 3 months ahead of time. It takes time to receive transcripts and translations from outside the country.
- Book tests early. Many countries sell out SAT and ACT seats quickly, so make sure to sign up early.
- Chase your referees. They have to get their letters to them on time as well, and they might forget!
- Submit 2days early. Common issues near the cutoff include slow internet and payment inaccuracies.
- Check your missing-documents notice. Check your e-mail at Stanford and you will find out what else is required.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Which application does Stanford use?
Stanford accepts the Common Application for first-year and transfer applicants. There is no separate Stanford-only form for undergraduates.
Are SAT or ACT scores required?
Yes. ACT or SAT scores are required for first-year and transfer students. There is no minimum score, since Stanford reviews your whole file together.
Do I need to pay the application fee?
The fee is $100. If paying is a hardship, you can request a fee waiver in the Common App, and your counselor confirms it. A waiver does not affect your chances.
How many recommendation letters do I need?
Three: one from your school counselor and two from academic teachers who taught you in core subjects.
Does applying for financial aid hurt my chances?
No. For undergraduate admission, Stanford reviews your application first and looks at financial need separately.
Keep reading
Related Stanford guides
Start your Stanford application today
Organize your Common App, compile documents and allow time to write essays that you'll be proud of. They're great at beating at the end of the ball.
Check the deadlines