Stanford University brand mark

Stanford University

Stanford, United States • Founded 1885 • QS 2027 #2 =

Updated Oct 2026 · Source: stanford.edu

Overview

Acronyms: SU
Founded: 1885
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Rankings:
QS World University Rankings 2027 #2 = Times Higher Education 2026 #5 = ARWU (Shanghai) 2026 #2 CWTS Leiden 2025 #5 SCImago 2026 #8
Motto: Die luft der freiheit weht
Colours: Cardinal red and white
Stanford University main campus view
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Founded in 1885, the Stanford University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Stanford (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), California.

This institution also has branch campuses in Washington, New York and Monterey. Officially accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, Stanford University (SU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution.

Stanford University (SU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 139-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.

The acceptance rate range is 0-9% making this US higher education organization an extremely selective institution.

International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. SU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Below are Stanford University's address, location, and primary contact channels.

Address: 450 Serra Mall
Postal Code: 94305
Phone: +1 (650) 723 2300
Fax: +1 (650) 725 6847
Social Media:

Academic Details

Scale, staffing, and recognition figures for Stanford University are listed below.

Recognition: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Total Students: 7,554
Academic Staff Range: 2,000-2,499
Campus Setting: Suburban
Memberships & Networks
Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Association of American Universities (AAU) National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

Stanford University's faculties, schools, and constituent units are listed below.

Unit 7 items
  • Graduate School of Business
  • Graduate School of Education
  • Law School
  • School of Earth, Energy and Environmental Sciences
  • School of Engineering
  • School of Humanities and Sciences
  • School of Medicine

Programs Offered

Search and filter Stanford University's available programmes by degree level.

121 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

How to apply to Stanford University

A five-step path through the application process at Stanford University.

  1. 1
    Find a programme that fits your goals

    Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Stanford University offers 121 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.

  2. 2
    Confirm you meet the requirements

    Each programme at Stanford University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.

  3. 3
    Assemble your application package

    Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.

  4. 4
    Submit your application

    Apply directly via Stanford University's online portal at www.stanford.edu. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.

  5. 5
    Contact admissions and follow up

    After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (650) 723 2300. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stanford University

Quick reference for Stanford University: founding, control type, and recognition status.

When was Stanford University founded?

Stanford University was established in 1885 (approximately 141 years ago).

In which city is Stanford University?

Stanford University is based in Stanford, United States.

Is Stanford University public or private?

It is a private higher-education institution.

How many students study at Stanford University?

Stanford University has approximately 7,554 students.

What is Stanford University's ranking?

Stanford University holds rank QS 2027 #2 =.

How many faculties does Stanford University have?

Stanford University has 7 academic units.

Is Stanford University officially recognised?

Stanford University is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

What is Stanford University's official website?

The institution's website is www.stanford.edu.

Members of Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU)

Other members of Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) are listed below.

Faculties at nearby universities

Below are universities in the same area as Stanford University.

Where Else to Study Linguistics & Language Studies

Other institutions in the United States teaching Linguistics & Language Studies are listed below for comparison with Stanford University.

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