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Overview of Stanford University

Mission Statement

From the Stanford University Founding Grant, November 11, 1885:

...the Nature, Object, and Purposes of the Institution Hereby Founded, to Be:

Its nature, that of a university with such seminaries of learning as shall make it of the highest grade, including mechanical institutes, museums, galleries of art, laboratories, and conservatories, together with all things necessary for the study of agriculture in all its branches, and for mechanical training, and the studies and exercises directed to the cultivation and enlargement of the mind:

Its object, to qualify its students for personal success, and direct usefulness in life;

And its purposes, to promote the public welfare by exercising an influence in behalf of humanity and civilization, teaching the blessings of liberty regulated by law, and inculcating love and reverence for the great principles of government as derived from the inalienable rights of man to life, liberty, and the Read more… pursuit of happiness.

Quick Facts

19,535 students

7% admitted

$40,050 tuition/year

  • 15,241 full time
  • 4,294 part time
  • 8,802 men full time
  • 6,439 women full time
  • 34,348 applied
  • 2,437 admitted
  • 1,707 enrolled
  • $40,050 out of state
  • $1,514 fees
  • $12,291 room & board
  • $1,500 books

At a Glance

Institution Type: Private not-for-profit
Campus Setting: Large suburb
Highest Degree Offered: Doctor's degree - research/scholarship and professional practice
Level of Institution: Four or more years
Calendar: Quarter
School Mascot: Cardinal
School Colors: Cardinal red and white
19,535 Students
Non-Degree Undergrads Graduates
Reviews: In Three Sentences
  • Dahlton from Jackson, CA
  • 0
  • “by far the most diverse, relaxed campus full of happy, friendly students of all ages. clean, green and exuding student pride everywhere you go. the best choice anyone could…”

  • Jan-28-2012 » Read More
  • Caitlin from Beaumont, CA
  • 0
  • “Stanford has all the resources and esteem of an Ivy league school with California weather. The environment, while being extremely academic, is heavily influenced by the 35 D1 athletic teams…”

  • Aug-23-2012 » Read More
  • Laura from San Fernando, Ca
  • 0
  • “It is the most productive, accepting, safe, and fun environment I have ever known. I gained a surrogate family in the community and all the students there. I feel incredibly…”

  • Jul-17-2012 » Read More
  • Steven from Chino Hills, CA
  • 0
  • “The campus is very large and physically attractive. The students are all very upbeat and helpful, and seem to enjoy their time there. The academics are top-notch, and are not…”

  • Aug-23-2012 » Read More
  • Jennifer from Brooklyn, WI
  • 0
  • “Stanford has the perfect blend of academic rigor and fun-loving students. The campus, people, and weather are all beautiful, which makes studying here extremely enjoyable. I wish I could stay…”

  • Apr-29-2012 » Read More

Reviews

Student Responses to Review Topic: Am I Enjoying Being Here
  • 5
  • Mayanka from India
  • Jan-03-2012 I am researching this school and have not visited the campus

    What's not to love about California? Especially around Stanford, which is misty and cool, but gets warm enough to hang out outside.

    » Read More
  • 5
  • Vivian
  • Dec-31-2011 I am a current student here

    It can be a bit intimidating when your classmates have already done so much, but for the most part everyone is laid back and humble that you don’t have to worry. They really are great people. It’s the atmosphere of the school to be really nice and accepting. People around here actually say Hi when they walk past you. It is great being here because the school trusts and supports you so much- you can basically do anything you want. There are many resources available if you need any sort of help. Stanford’s got the money.

    » Read More
  • 4
  • Alexis from Riverside, CA
  • Nov-08-2011 I am a current student here

    I love the people, but I admit that I am overwhelmed with the opportunities. The classes are very fast paced and there is a lot of pressure (which one can resist) to be occupied with something productive all of the time. The city is a little farther when you're a freshman without a car (1.5 hour train ride). I love it.

    » Read More
  • 5
  • Savannah
  • Oct-01-2011 I am researching this school and have visited the campus

    The architecture everyone gushes about is truly beautiful, so there won't be any problems with a less-than-stellar campus. The people are very friendly, even the complete strangers you see biking around. There are numerous places to hang out and tons of activities to join, so there's no way you can be bored.

    » Read More
  • 5
  • Mark from Kerman, CA
  • Aug-07-2011 I am researching this school and have visited the campus

    The campus is absolutely beautiful. I was amazed at what I saw. There is a lot of things to do on campus that will keep a student very happy. Its location is really sweet since it is located close to the bay, so opportunities to do things off campus are really numerous. I am a huge sports guy and I love Stanford's athletic program. If you love sports, you are going to have a lot of fun going to all sorts of athletic events.

    » Read More