What is Stanford University's acceptance rate?

Stanford University's acceptance rate is 3.7%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Stanford?

Admitted students typically score about 1500–1580 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–36 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Stanford test-optional?

Stanford University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Stanford University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (3.7%)

3.7%

Acceptance rate

1500–1580

SAT (mid 50%)

34–36

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Stanford?

With a 3.7% acceptance rate, Stanford University is extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into. It enrolls roughly 7,800 undergraduates (suburban setting) in Stanford, CA. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1500–1580 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 34–36.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.97. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at Stanford's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $62,484 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Computer Science · Engineering · Entrepreneurship · Human Biology

See Stanford’s supplemental essay guide

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Stanford admissions FAQ

What is Stanford University's acceptance rate?: Stanford University's acceptance rate is 3.7%, which makes it extremely selective — one of the hardest schools in the country to get into.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Stanford?: Admitted students typically score about 1500–1580 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–36 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Stanford test-optional?: Stanford University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Stanford official website
Stanford on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Stanford University’s official admissions site.