Does anyone know how to get into Stanford University?

Question

I'm an incoming freshman for high school and even though it's super early, I really want to know the accurate requirements that you need to get into Stanford. Like how many high school credits and all of that stuff. (Not what you need to graduate form high school, but what Stanford wants)

Answer 1

The Stanford website should be able to tell you that, as should your high school counselor. Your best bet is to take the most advanced classes possible and do really well in them. Rather than looking at the minimum requirements, you should be looking at what more you can do, since most people who simply meet the minimum requirements do not get into schools like Stanford. You will need to look like an outstanding student whose intellectual curiosity drives her to far exceed the requirements. Don't opt out of things like honors classes in an effort to keep your GPA high or stuff your schedule with "easy A's". You really need to show your willingness to take on strong academic challenges and succeed. In addition, try to find some unique extracurricular interests. Just being elected secretary of an existing club on campus won't cut it. You would do better to found a club or to start a public service project, showing initiative, passion, and leadership, rather than just joining a lot of things (unless you can take an existing club in a new direction or you have a tremendous talent which guides your extra-curricular activities (such as being a concert musician or an outstanding athlete). Good luck! You have a year or two on my nephew, who also wants to go to Stanford. Maybe you'll meet him there!

Answer 2

The Stanford web site does have a lot of details. However, Stanford can be one of the more difficult places to get admitted. For this falls entering class, only 18% of students in the top 1-2% of their class were admitted. And only 16% of students with a 4.0 GPA or higher were admitted. Similar figures can be seen for SAT scores. Thus taking the most challenging classes and excelling in them is critical.

They also mention "we seek outstanding students who have selected a rigorous academic program and achieved distinction in a range of courses. We also take into consideration personal qualities - we want to know how you have taken advantage of available resources..."

Another thing to consider - Stanford has won the trophy for the best overall athletic program for the past dozen years. Doing great in athletics thus may also give you an advantage in getting in.

Answer 3

As many as possible. You can't do any better than your best, so just do that.