Choosing a university can be very stressful, especially if you are aiming for one of the best institutions in the United States. Stanford is a "holistic" college where excellent assessments, a minimum standardized test score or a minimum grade point average are not required to enter. You may then wonder what the judging panel will ever want to admit a student. Be aware that although Stanford only accepts 7% of applicants each year, there are still several possibilities to enter. In this article we will explain the process of becoming a Cardinal. Keep reading!
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Being a Great Student
Step 1. Start preparing as soon as possible
The reality is that children today are growing faster and faster and parents are becoming more and more demanding. Accessing an advanced course or a program for particularly gifted students in high school is not all that great, if your neighbors' child was able to do it at 12 years of age. The sooner you start being a great student, the better! In other words, start thinking about it and preparing yourself in middle school.
Remember that: "You cannot teach an old dog new games", perhaps this proverb does not even exist, but always keep it in mind because they are wise words. As you get older, learning a sport, a new language, a hobby or a new skill becomes increasingly difficult. Do yourself a favor now and do whatever you can. When the time comes to apply to university, you will be the best of the best
Step 2. In high school, try to build a great school curriculum
From day one, establish good academic relationships with your professors, so you can monitor progress in various subjects. Let them know that you are aiming to get into Stanford so they will help you maintain the pace necessary for your goal. They will certainly be able to recommend complementary courses and help you acquire all the essential knowledge at the level of this university.
- Don't lose sight of your goals when choosing which high school to attend. For example, if you want to become a doctor, a high school like Liceo Scientifico will be more suitable, since to access Stanford medical courses you will need to have knowledge of advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry and so on. If you are aiming for an artistic or design career, then physics, geometry, drawing and computer design are the subjects you need to pursue.
- Be aware that Stanford recommends that you have studied English for at least 4 years and places particular emphasis on writing and literature; 4 years of mathematics, with special attention to algebra, geometry and trigonometry; 3 years of history and social studies (preferably with a large non-fiction component); 3 years of applied science in the laboratory such as biology, physics and chemistry. Furthermore, it is advisable to study a foreign language for 3-4 years (in addition to English which must be excellent in order to be able to follow the courses).
Step 3. Get shocking good grades
The better your results, the better your chances of getting into Stanford, even if this university does not impose a "minimum average" for admission. And if you managed to get great grades in an advanced or special course, so much the better. 56% of all candidates have a high school grade average of 4.0 (which corresponds to a 10 in the Italian grading system) or even higher.
That said, know that you can enter this college even if your grades are less than perfect. If you have an average of 3.5 (9 and ½) but have developed a new mathematical model for studying climate change, then know that you will have little difficulty getting into Stanford. Maybe you might even go to MIT eventually
Step 4. Try to take advanced courses
You must start as early as possible and attend most of the special in-depth courses that your institution offers. If they are not provided by your school, try to inquire at the university in your area if you can attend some courses as an auditor and measure your knowledge by taking the same exams as the actual students. Probably the results of these exams will have no legal value, but your learning level will be much higher and getting "stellar" grades in high school will be a no brainer. Take advantage of all the possibilities that are offered to you.
This is particularly important because the Stanford judging panel weighs the various courses differently. Advanced and extra-curricular studies that demonstrate a "talent" are more valued and the good grades obtained in these are "heavier" than those obtained with normal courses; thanks to them your application will enjoy greater consideration
Step 5. As far as extracurricular activities are concerned, aim for quality rather than quantity
The university appreciates the enthusiasm and commitment in what you are doing. A candidate with deep knowledge and extensive experience in a couple of areas is preferred to one who frequents, in a superficial way, many clubs and sports associations. Find what you enjoy and take it to the end of high school.
- There is no extracurricular activity that has more value than another at this university. As long as you are able to do it consistently and improve your skills, it will always be taken into consideration.
- Join the associations your high school makes available, join the school board or create a club yourself! Become a class or school representative, found a group that takes care of the environment, try to be a "well-rounded" person.
Step 6. Volunteer
If there is anything you should be involved in during high school, it is volunteering. You don't just have to be smart, athletic, and eloquent, but also kind and involved in community issues. It is not that difficult to have good grades, but it is much more difficult to be a person of good character, with solid moral principles and good grades. This is the candidate Stanford wants.
Look for an association of volunteers who work in the hospital in your city, at the shelter for the homeless, a retirement home or a day center for the elderly; alternatively join larger groups like Habitat for Humanity. If you are interested in an organization that does not have a pre-established volunteer program, ask! There are few who will refuse people willing to work for free
Step 7. Undergo the “ACT plus Writing” or the “SAT test”
Stanford requires you to take one of these standardized tests in order to be considered a candidate. However, a minimum result is not required to be able to enter university. Of course, there's no denying that getting perfect grades on these exams increases your chances of admission. In the last year, 25% of admitted candidates had received a grade of 800 in the SAT, both for mathematics and critical thinking.
- At least two SAT tests are recommended for two different subjects, although it is not essential. You will need to submit official results if you decide to take this exam. Choose at least the one of math and written composition, since it is the bare minimum. If you can't do both, at least aim for written composition. You will find many sites online that provide SAT test simulations and preparation programs (for example number2.com); practice on these platforms and you will have no problems!
- If you are getting lower results than you hoped for, don't let that stop you from submitting your application. There are dozens of other factors to consider besides the test scores.
Step 8. Do something extraordinary
If it's not easy to explain, even better. Consider student A: she is captain of the volleyball team, the leader of the school play, has a grade point average of 10, volunteers at the center for women victims of domestic abuse, is a black belt in karate and speaks fluent Japanese and Tagalog … Impressive! Student B just went to Switzerland on behalf of the UN and coordinated the delegates. Magnificent!
Both students A and B did impressive things that required hard work, no one can claim otherwise. However, Student A has done things that most people could do or might know someone who can do them. But how did student B manage to join the United Nations at 17? It must be someone special! Even if it was just a fluke, student B attended a conference, he may have formed relationships with the right people, no one knows. What the judging panel members know is that student B did something amazing, something they can't explain, something impressive. And Stanford loves awesome things
Part 2 of 3: Understanding the Application Process
Step 1. Find out about deadlines
Restrictive Early Action expires November 1st. The regular decision expires on January 1st and, if you are inclined to art and want to attach artistic documentation, the deadlines are October 15th and December 1st. Most students stick to regular decision guidelines.
- "Restrictive Early Action": You should only follow this procedure if you are sure that Stanford is your first choice. Do a lot of research on other universities before assuming this college is the one you want to attend.
- Go to the admission.stanford.edu/arts website to get all the information on sending all the documents for the artistic address. If your interest in art is serious and you intend to engage in this matter in some way (even if a declaration of commitment is not required at Stanford), then consider the guidelines and deadlines set out in this section of the website. 'university.
Step 2. Visit the Stanford application site
To have the information updated in real time it is always better to rely on this page. Click on the "never registered" link that you find under the word "Apply" in the center of the screen.
You must apply online, unless you are in particular circumstances that prevent you from doing so. Stanford University only accepts online applications, unless you are given special permission to submit a paper application
Step 3. Fill out the "First Year Common Application" and "The Stanford Supplement" form and submit both
The online process is very simple and straightforward, you can find these modules on the commonapp.org page.
- You will also be asked for documents relating to your high school, which may send them electronically or by email. There are three forms that must be completed: the "Secondary School Report", the "Mid-Year School Report" and the "Final Report". You can compile them or download them online from the Common Application site.
- In addition, you will have to pay a non-refundable fee of $ 90 (approximately € 85). If you are entitled to the exemption, speak to the school counselor and fill out the corresponding online form or fax it to (650) 723-6050.
Step 4. Get assessments from two of your teachers
They must be the teachers who have followed you for the last two years of high school. Remember to ask them for an evaluation well in advance, as some teachers tend to take their time when it comes to writing a letter of recommendation and evaluation. Teachers should submit assessments electronically, according to Stanford's preferences.
- The assessments must be on two different groups of main subjects. The subjects that are accepted as major are mathematics, literature, science, foreign language or history / social science.
- If you wish, you have the option of attaching a third evaluation letter from a person who is not a teacher, if you believe that this can help give an overview of your personality. However, it is a completely optional choice that does not increase or decrease your chances of admission.
Step 5. Make a good impression on the test
Be yourself when writing your essay for Stanford. The college is looking for people who can express "their opinion" and not those who say what they think the committee members want to hear. The commissioners have already seen and heard many candidates and know how to recognize lies and "false" statements, they will not be impressed by anything but the honesty, the spirit of innovation and the genuineness of the candidate.
You can also write a theme about your love of ice cream. Don't think that you have to write an essay on how "beautiful and unique you are", at least don't do it directly. If you show that you have integrity, that you are committed and really want to stand out from the crowd, you stand a good chance of being admitted
Step 6. Don't even think about using gimmicks
You won't be able to cheat the commission for a long time. They have seen everything, even planes flying overhead in an attempt to "push" a candidate's admission. Know that this doesn't work. Only "you", with your skills and qualities can earn a place at Stanford and not with the tricks you can put into practice.
Step 7. Be realistic
Each year, Stanford University accepts fewer and fewer students, or rather, the institute receives more and more applications (about 20,000). Last year, only 7% of candidates were admitted. Even if you have an important surname, know that this will not be enough to be able to attend Stanford, thankfully! It is not a matter of family prestige, know that there are many other good universities that will guarantee you a successful career.
However, you should always have a second choice available. If you can't get into Stanford, you need a "plan B". Even if they accept you, know that you don't have to go there
Step 8. Keep in mind that Stanford does not take into consideration whether or not you can pay tuition
This means that you will be considered whether you are the son of Bill Gates or the daughter of an unemployed illegal immigrant. Also, the college has a great financial aid program, even if you think you can't afford this college, apply anyway.
- In any case, be aware that Stanford is a very, very expensive university to attend. We are talking about $ 13,000 (approximately € 12,000) per quarter. But don't be intimidated by this; Stanford knows it's expensive and can help you with that. It doesn't matter that you are the best of the best, if you need help, you will get it.
- Apply online for the CSS PROFILE (College Scholarship Service) and the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). It will only take 20 minutes and must be completed by January.
Part 3 of 3: Attending Stanford as an International or Transfer Student
Step 1. Meet deadlines
For transfer students, these are slightly different. The deadline for applying to art courses and the standard application is March 15th; however the SAT must be done by January and the ACT by February. This applies to all transfer students, both international and US.
Students usually meet the early deadlines and then apply for January. They will receive a response in April and, occasionally, by May
Step 2. Check that you meet the requirements of Stanford in order to be admitted
See the Stanford Bulletin and the archive webpage for up-to-date information on which credits can be validated for transfer. If in doubt, your school counselor will be able to help you.
- Those courses where you have obtained at least a pass will be taken into consideration. Additionally, Stanford University will only accept credits from courses taken at accredited colleges that are similar to those Stanford offers.
- To be able to graduate from Stanford, you must complete at least two years at this university.
Step 3. Fill out the Common Application's Transfer form and the Stanford Supplement
Both must be completed and submitted online to the Common Application Web Site. It also completes the Transfer Application Personal Essay and the Stanford Supplement Short Essays. You can find advice on how to write the essay in the "Understanding the Application Process" section of this article.
The procedure is very similar to that which traditional students are subjected to. Instead of sending the final results of the high school, you will have to provide the assessments and grades obtained by the university you come from. Again, you have to pay application fees ($ 90)
Step 4. Get two assessments from two teachers
These assessments must come from academic professors at your home college, unless you have only attended seminars. If so, the form can be completed by a teacher's assistant.
- Just like freshmen, you have the option of attaching a third letter from someone other than your teacher who knows you well and can describe your personality. However, it will have no influence on your chances of admission.
- If possible, teachers should submit assessments online. Stanford is trying to strongly discourage the use of paper documentation and prefers telematics.
Step 5. International students must submit the “International Supplement form”
This is an add-on module located in the same section of the site dedicated to US freshmen. Otherwise, the application process is no different.
- An English translation of the sending high school documents and teacher assessments must be provided. You must also produce a sworn translation of your diploma. These translations should be done by teachers or school administrators who are fluent in English.
- You can take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) if you are not a native English speaker. The test is not mandatory but it is recommended to do it.
Step 6. Reply to Stanford by June 1st
If the university confirms your admission, congratulations first! Second, you must notify the college of your decision by June 1st. The sooner you do it, the sooner you can start worrying about scholarships and looking for a place to live
If you haven't been admitted, don't worry. Getting into Stanford as a transfer student is statistically much more difficult than as a freshman. In recent years, the percentage of admitted students who come from other universities has fluctuated between 1% and 4%. This is because only 20-50 places are granted for transfer students each year, so know that you are not alone
Advice
- Don't let anyone change your personality when you have to show up for the admission test. If you are a bit informal type, that's fine. You better stand out as an interesting individual that the examining board wants to know better than a formal automaton.
- Be aware that Stanford does not recognize the IELTS (International English Language Test) as proof of knowledge of English.
