Thinking of Applying to Stanford? How to Get Into Stanford (beyond the numbers)
As one of the top schools in the country, Stanford considers everything when it comes to applications!
Show that you are curious and willing to take on a challenge!
Follow your passions and stay committed to your activities!
Think about how you will grow at Stanford!
Is Stanford your dream school?
Stanford University is one of the MOST selective schools in the nation, with an admissions rate of 3.68%! For the class of 2026, only 2075 students were admitted from 56,378 total applications.
3.68% may sound like an intimidating number, but Stanford states on their website that they consider each candidate as a whole, seek to understand them as individuals, and look for certain characteristics in addition to good grades and high test scores (Our Selection Process).
While it is important to remember that there is NO SUCH THING as a “typical Stanford student”, let’s break down each characteristic Stanford admissions officers consider when reviewing applications.
Academic Curiosity
While Stanford states there is no minimum GPA or test score to apply, academic excellence is a core part of a strong application. In 2020, the mid-50th percentile of admitted freshman had SAT scores of 1420- 1570 and ACT scores of 31-35. The average GPA was 3.96.
However, beyond the numbers, Stanford looks for students who challenge themselves, are enthusiastic about what they learn, and are capable of success.
So avoid taking any AP or Honors classes just for the sake of having them on your transcript and really take advantage of what your school offers! Take challenging classes on subjects that you are truly interested in learning more about (maybe a subject you would like to pursue in college!) and get excited!
You’ll be learning something you actually want to learn, and your transcript will reflect that. Bonus: a teacher for a course that you are genuinely interested in is a great person for a potential recommendation letter!
Passion and Commitment
Doing extracurricular activities and pursuing interests outside of school is about more than just bulking your college resume; it’s about showing your dedication and passion for something - whether it be athletics, the arts, or more- and the impact you make.
Stanford looks for students who make a commitment and stick to it, so choose something that you truly enjoy and work hard to make make your mark as a leader.
Do you enjoy playing basketball? Work hard to make it on the varsity team (maybe even team captain!). Are you someone who is passionate about music? Join the school band or your local music program! Have a burning desire to do some good? Volunteer your time at a local charity!
Always go for quality over quantity! Stanford considers the depth of involvement and the impact of these activities on you as an individual when going over applications, so it’s always better to show that you focused on making great experiences in one or two activities rather than half-heartedly participating in a dozen activities.
Vision and Drive
The Stanford Admissions Committee looks for students who have “intellectual vitality” and “seek out opportunities and expand your perspective.”
Outside of academics, they want students who possess the initiative to broaden their horizons and are genuinely curious to know more about the world.
So take some time to consider what you are interested in learning more about and what Stanford offers to help you achieve your goal.
Stanford has some of the brightest professors and best facilities in the country, so think about what you are excited to pursue academically when you are admitted. Is there a particular field of study you’re interested in or a program you want to participate in?
You should also think about what you can learn to grow as an individual. Stanford is a diverse community with a multitude of clubs, sports, and people of different backgrounds. Try to imagine how you will spend those next few years at Stanford, how you will develop within such a colorful community, and what impact you can make.
Now take those thoughts and do your best to convey what you’ve imagined to the Stanford admissions committee in your essay.
If it’s your dream to go to Stanford, then start thinking about how you can tailor your application to the characteristics that the Stanford Admissions Committee HIGHLY CONSIDERS when deciding which students to accept.
For more college application tips, check out our articles on how to get into Harvard, and how to get into MIT. If you’re also considering applying to Ivy League schools, check out our article here!
