Stanford University is one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, attracting top students globally. However, with an acceptance rate of around 4% and high tuition costs, gaining admission and securing a scholarship can be challenging.
Fortunately, Stanford offers generous financial aid, including need-based and merit-based scholarships. This guide outlines the key steps on how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, covering admission requirements, financial aid opportunities, and expert tips to strengthen your application and make your dream a reality.
Table of contents
- How to Get into Stanford with a Scholarship in 2025?
- Stanford University Scholarships for Undergraduate
- Stanford University Scholarships for Graduates
- How to Get a Scholarship at Stanford?
- Top Courses to Study at Stanford University
- Understanding Stanford’s Admission Process
- Tips to Improve Your Stanford Application
- FAQs
How to Get into Stanford with a Scholarship in 2025?
Getting into Stanford University with a scholarship requires a combination of academic excellence, strong extracurricular achievements, and strategic financial planning. Since Stanford has an acceptance rate of around 4%, standing out in the application process is crucial.
Steps to Get Into Stanford with a Scholarship
- Maintain Academic Excellence – Aim for top grades and high SAT/ACT scores (if submitted). Taking advanced courses (AP, IB, or honors) can strengthen your profile.
- Excel in Extracurricular Activities – Engage in leadership roles, community service, research, or entrepreneurship to showcase your impact and passion.
- Craft an Outstanding Application – Write compelling essays, secure strong recommendation letters, and highlight your unique experiences and goals.
- Apply for Stanford Scholarships – Stanford offers generous need-based financial aid, covering tuition for families earning under $100,000 per year. Additionally, external scholarships and merit-based awards can supplement financial support.
- Meet All Deadlines – Submit your application through the Common Application by the required deadlines and ensure all financial aid documents (FAFSA, CSS Profile) are completed on time.
With thorough preparation and a strong application, you can maximize your chances of getting into Stanford with a scholarship.
Stanford University Scholarships for Undergraduate
Stanford University offers financial aid and scholarships to help undergraduate students, including those from India, afford their education.Its need-based aid program ensures that all admitted students can study regardless of their financial background. Additionally, Indian students can apply for externally funded scholarships to cover tuition and living expenses.
Now, let’s explore some of these external scholarships for undergraduate students at Stanford.
| Scholarship Name | Offered By | Coverage/Awards | Eligibility Criteria |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship | Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation | Fully funded (tuition, living expenses, one-way travel) | – Indian citizen residing in India – Excellent academic record – Offer letter from the university |
| TATA Scholarship for Indian Students | TATA Education and Development Trust | INR 60,000 to INR 4 Lakhs | – Indian citizen – Financial need – Strong academic record, leadership, and community service |
| Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholarship | Rotary Clubs | – Academic Year Scholarship: INR 20.82 Lakhs – Multi-Year Scholarship: INR 9.90 Lakhs – Cultural Scholarship: INR 9.90 – 15.80 Lakhs | – Strong academic performance and leadership – Citizenship in a country with Rotary Clubs (India qualifies) |
Stanford University Scholarships for Graduates
Stanford University provides scholarships and financial aid for graduate students, including those from different backgrounds and nationalities. Here are some internal and external scholarships available for Indian students.
| Scholarship Name | Funding Type | Awards | Eligibility |
| Knight-Hennessy Scholars Programme | University-funded | Full funding for tuition, dorm rooms, stipend for living expenses, leadership development funds. | Open to all international students; must be admitted to a full-time graduate degree at Stanford. |
| Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship | University-funded | Full tuition and course-related fees, stipend for living and educational expenses. | Must be an Indian citizen with an offer letter for the Stanford MBA programme; financial need considered. |
| Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation | Externally-funded | Interest-free loan scholarships covering tuition, living, and course-related expenses. | Must be an Indian citizen with an outstanding academic record; must have an offer letter from the university. |
| K.C. Mahindra Education Trust | Externally-funded | Interest-free loan scholarships covering tuition, living, and course-related expenses. | Must be an Indian citizen with an outstanding academic record; must have an offer letter; preference for STEM fields. |
How to Get a Scholarship at Stanford?
Securing a scholarship at Stanford requires a strong application, financial aid planning, and awareness of available funding options. Here’s how you can maximize your chances of receiving financial support to make your Stanford education more affordable.
Apply for Stanford’s Need-Based Financial Aid
Stanford offers need-based financial aid to both U.S. and international students. If you are searching for how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, applying for financial aid should be a priority. To apply, complete the CSS Profile (for international students) or FAFSA scholarships for Indian and US students.
Additionally, submit all necessary financial documents as required by Stanford. The university will assess your financial need and provide aid accordingly. Many students receive generous aid packages, making a Stanford education more accessible.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (For Graduate Students)
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious scholarships available for graduate students. If you are looking for how to get into Stanford with a scholarship at the graduate level, this program provides full funding for tuition, living expenses, and leadership development.
To qualify, you must demonstrate leadership, innovation, and civic engagement. Applicants must apply separately to both their chosen Stanford graduate program and the Knight-Hennessy program. Additionally, you will need to submit additional essays and recommendation letters as part of the application process.
External Scholarships for Stanford Applicants
For students researching how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, exploring external scholarships is a great option. Several organizations offer funding for students applying to Stanford, such as:
- Coca-Cola Scholarship (for high-achieving U.S. students)
- Gates Millennium Scholars Program
- Fulbright Scholarships (for international students)
- Local Government and Private Organization Grants
Applying to these external scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden and increase your ability to attend Stanford with financial assistance.
Top Courses to Study at Stanford University
Stanford University offers three undergraduate degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Arts and Science. Students can specialize while also exploring different fields.
The university has seven schools—three for undergraduates and four for graduate studies.
It follows a quarter system with three main study periods (fall, winter, and spring) and an optional summer quarter. Now, let’s look at the fees for Indian students and the top courses at Stanford.
| Course Name | Duration | Eligibility | Average Annual Fees (INR) |
| Bachelor of Arts in Economics | 3-4 years | 12th grade with relevant subjects | 38L |
| Bachelor of Science in Mathematics | 3-4 years | 12th grade with Mathematics | 38L |
| Bachelor of Engineering in Architecture Design | 4-5 years | 12th grade with Science stream | 38L |
| Bachelor of Science in Chemistry | 3-4 years | 12th grade with Science stream | 38L |
| Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 4 years | 12th grade with Science stream | 38L |
| Masters in Business Administration | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree + GMAT/GRE | 49L |
| Masters in Management for Experienced Leaders | 1-2 years | Bachelor’s + Work Experience | 85L |
| Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 1.5-2 years | Bachelor’s in Engineering | 39L |
| Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering | 1.5-2 years | Bachelor’s in Engineering | 39L |
| Doctor of Medicine | 4-6 years | Bachelor’s in Medicine (MBBS) | 53L |
Understanding Stanford’s Admission Process
Now that you know how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, it’s important to understand the university’s admission process.
Stanford takes a holistic approach, evaluating not just academic excellence but also extracurricular achievements, leadership, and personal qualities to identify students who will thrive in its dynamic community.
Below is a detailed breakdown of Stanford’s admission process.
Meet Stanford’s Academic Standards
Stanford is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of around 5%. If you want to know how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, you must focus on maintaining an outstanding academic record. To increase your chances of admission, you need to have a high GPA (above 4.0 for weighted GPAs or around 3.9 unweighted).
Additionally, taking challenging courses such as AP, IB, or honors classes will demonstrate your academic capability. Your performance in subjects related to your intended major is also crucial for showcasing your expertise in a specific field.
Score High on Standardized Tests (If Required)
While Stanford has adopted a test-optional policy in recent years, strong test scores can still significantly enhance your application. If you are aiming to understand how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, it is beneficial to submit impressive test scores.
The recommended scores include an SAT score between 1500-1570 or an ACT score between 33-35. Additionally, international students must take the TOEFL or IELTS to demonstrate English proficiency, with a minimum required TOEFL score of 100. Having strong test scores can set you apart from other applicants and improve your chances of both admission and financial aid.
Demonstrate Leadership and Extracurricular Excellence
Stanford values students who exhibit leadership, creativity, and initiative. When considering how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, you must show that you have excelled beyond academics. Engage in meaningful extracurricular activities such as leading student organizations, participating in competitions, conducting research, or engaging in community service.
Admissions officers are looking for students who make a positive impact on their communities and demonstrate strong leadership potential. Quality matters more than quantity, so focus on a few impactful activities rather than spreading yourself too thin.
Write a Compelling Personal Statement and Essays
One of the most critical parts of your application is the personal statement. If you are wondering how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, your essays should reflect your personality, goals, and values. Your personal statement should be authentic and share a compelling story about your experiences.
Highlight how you think critically, solve problems innovatively, and align with Stanford’s mission and values. Use your essays to differentiate yourself from other candidates and showcase your uniqueness.
Obtain Strong Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation provide insights into your academic abilities, character, and potential. If you want to learn how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, securing strong recommendations is essential. Stanford typically requires two letters from teachers and one from a school counselor.
Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide specific examples of your achievements, leadership, and impact. These letters should reinforce your academic strengths and personal qualities that make you an excellent fit for Stanford.
Also Read:
- Cambridge Acceptance Rate in 2025 for International Students
- How to Get Into Ivy League Colleges as an International Student?
Tips to Improve Your Stanford Application
To stand out in Stanford’s highly competitive admissions process, you need more than just excellent grades and test scores. Here are expert tips to help you craft a compelling application that highlights your strengths, passion, and unique qualities.
1. Start Early
The key to understanding how to get into Stanford with a scholarship is to begin preparing 2-3 years in advance. Plan your academic and extracurricular activities strategically so that you have a well-rounded and competitive application by the time you apply.
2. Show Impact, Not Just Participation
Stanford values students who make a significant impact rather than those who merely participate in numerous activities. If you are trying to understand how to get into Stanford with a scholarship, focus on quality over quantity. Demonstrating leadership and measurable achievements will make your application stand out.
3. Connect with Stanford Alumni and Professors
Networking with current students, alumni, or professors can provide valuable insights into Stanford’s culture. Understanding the university’s expectations can enhance your approach to how to get into Stanford with a scholarship. Engaging with Stanford’s community can also provide mentorship opportunities and guidance on strengthening your application.
4. Craft a Unique Story
One of the most important aspects of how to get into Stanford with a scholarship is presenting a compelling and unique narrative. Admissions officers appreciate students who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. Your application essays should clearly convey what makes you different and how you can contribute to Stanford’s vibrant community.
5. Double-Check Your Application
Before submitting your application, ensure that:
- Your essays are error-free and well-structured.
- Recommendation letters are submitted on time.
- You meet all application deadlines.
Meticulously reviewing your application can prevent mistakes that may negatively impact your chances.
Understanding how to get into Stanford with a scholarship requires strategic planning, academic excellence, and strong extracurricular achievements. Focus on excelling in academics, demonstrating leadership, and crafting compelling application essays. Take advantage of Stanford’s need-based financial aid, external scholarships, and fellowship programs to make education more affordable. By following this guide, you can maximize your chances of gaining admission to Stanford while securing financial assistance.
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FAQs
To secure admission and a scholarship, you need exceptional academics, strong extracurricular achievements, leadership experience, and a well-crafted application. Additionally, apply for need-based financial aid or external scholarships.
A high GPA (above 4.0 weighted or around 3.9 unweighted) is ideal. Taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors can strengthen your profile.
Stanford provides need-based financial aid to international students. Additionally, graduate students can apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Programme for full funding.
Popular programs include Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry, MBA, Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, and Medicine.
Stanford has an acceptance rate of around 4%, making it one of the most competitive universities in the world.
Yes, Stanford offers need-based financial aid to international students, covering tuition and living expenses for families earning under $100,000 per year. Additionally, external scholarships can supplement financial support.
Maintain a high GPA, score well on standardized tests (if applicable), participate in leadership roles, engage in extracurricular activities, and write compelling application essays.
Yes, through need-based financial aid and programs like Knight-Hennessy Scholars for graduate students.
Yes, but aid is need-based, and students must apply during the admission process.
There is no easy way. However, a strong academic record, leadership, and impactful extracurriculars significantly increase your chances.
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