A Comprehensive Guide to Stanford University Fees: Costs, Financial Aid, and More in 2025

Stanford University, ranked among the world's top universities, offers a world-class education with a high cost of attendance. For the 2025 academic year, the total estimated cost for undergraduate students exceeds INR 66L, covering tuition, fees, room, and board. 

However, Stanford's financial aid program stands out by covering 100% of a student's demonstrated financial need, with over 70% of undergraduates receiving assistance. Families earning under INR 1.2 Cr typically pay little to no tuition. 

The blog will explore Stanford's fees, available financial aid, and how to navigate the costs. This guide will ensure prospective students and parents are well-prepared for the economic aspects of attending this prestigious institution.

Stanford University Fees: Everything You Need to Know

For the 2025 academic year, the total cost of attendance — including tuition, fees, room, and board — exceeds INR 66L for undergraduate students. Graduate programs, including professional and postgraduate degrees, come with their own set of costs, often varying by program.

Understanding the complete breakdown of Stanford's fees is critical for prospective students to make informed decisions about financing their education. 

Let's take a comprehensive look at the costs of various Stanford University programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, international students, and specialized professional programs.

Stanford University Tuition Fees for International Students

International students at Stanford are expected to pay the same tuition as domestic students, ranging from 11L to 24L approximately, but it’s important to understand the total cost of attending the university, which includes not only tuition but also living expenses and health insurance. 

The following table outlines the current tuition fees for international students for both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Program	Tuition Fee in USD	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
Undergraduate	$21,709 per quarter	18.6L	For full-time enrollment (12-20 units)
Graduate (General like law, engineering, or medicine)	$13,240 per quarter	11.3L	For 8-10 units in most graduate programs
Graduate (Business)	$27,485 per quarter	23.5L	For the first year of MBA program

Note: Units refer to the credit system used to measure the amount of academic work required for a course.

Stanford University MBA/PGDM Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford’s MBA program is one of the most prestigious in the world, attracting students from across the globe. ​

According to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, the MBA Class of 2026 comprises 424 students, with 39% international representation from 72 countries.

Known for its focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation, the MBA program at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business offers a unique curriculum that prepares students to take on significant leadership roles.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
MBA (First Year)	$27,485 per quarter	23.5L	For the first year of MBA program
MBA (Second Year)	$26,620 per quarter	22.8L	For the second year of MBA program

Stanford University MS Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford University offers a wide range of Master’s programs (MS) across multiple disciplines, from engineering to humanities. 

MS students at Stanford have access to world-class faculty and state-of-the-art resources, but the tuition costs reflect the university's elite status. The MS program typically spans multiple quarters, with students enrolling for 8-10 units per quarter.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
MS (General)	$13,240 per quarter	11.3L	For 8-10 units across various departments

Stanford University M.A. Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford’s Master of Arts (M.A.) programs are designed for those who wish to pursue advanced studies in the humanities, social sciences, and arts. These programs allow students to deepen their academic knowledge and engage in critical research. 

Like the MS programs, the tuition fees for M.A. students are consistent across disciplines, meaning that regardless of the specific area of study, all M.A. students pay the same tuition rate.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
M.A. (General)	$13,240 per quarter	11.3L	For 8-10 units in most M.A. disciplines

Stanford University B.A. Tuition Fee 2025

​Stanford University offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree through its School of Humanities and Sciences, encompassing more than 45 departments and interdisciplinary programs. 

The B.A. degree allows students to gain deep knowledge in a specific field while benefiting from the university's strong liberal arts education. Tuition for full-time undergraduates is set for the 2024-2025 academic year.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
B.A. (Undergraduate)	$21,709 per quarter	18.6L	For full-time enrollment (12-20 units)

Stanford University B.E. / B.Tech Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford’s Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) and Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) programs are offered through the School of Engineering and are among the best in the world. According to the THE World University Rankings 2025, Stanford's engineering program is ranked 2nd worldwide, following Harvard University.

These programs focus on developing engineering skills through both coursework and practical, hands-on projects. The tuition fees for these programs are consistent with the undergraduate B.A. programs.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
B.E. / B.Tech (Undergraduate)	$21,709 per quarter	18.6L	For full-time enrollment (12-20 units)

Stanford University B.Sc. Tuition Fee 2025

The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) at Stanford is a popular degree path, especially in the fields of natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering. 

Stanford offers one of the most competitive and research-driven B.Sc. programs globally, providing students with access to unparalleled research facilities and faculty expertise.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
B.Sc. (Undergraduate)	$21,709 per quarter	18.6L	For full-time enrollment (12-20 units)

Stanford University Other PG Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford offers a variety of other postgraduate (PG) programs across disciplines, including fields like education, design, and sciences. 

The Graduate School of Education provides several master's degrees, such as Curriculum Studies and Teacher Education (CTE), Education Data Science (EDS), International Comparative Education (ICE), and Learning, Design, and Technology (LDT).

Where as doctoral offerings include Learning Sciences and Technology Design (LSTD), among others.

These programs typically have tuition fees based on the number of units students take each quarter, with the most common rate being $13,240 per quarter for full-time enrollment in graduate programs.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
Other PG (General)	$13,240 per quarter	11.3L	For 8-10 units in most postgraduate programs

Stanford University LL.M. Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford’s Master of Laws (LL.M.) program is a graduate-level law degree that prepares students for advanced legal research and practice. The program allows students to specialize in intellectual property, international law, and environmental law, among others.

With a globally renowned faculty and interdisciplinary approach, the LL.M. program at Stanford is highly competitive. The program is based in the Law School, and tuition reflects the specialized nature of this program.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
LL.M. (Law School)	$24,825 per quarter	21.2L	For Law School LL.M. program

Stanford University Executive MBA/PGDM Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford’s Executive MBA program offers senior professionals the chance to advance their careers through leadership and strategic management training. 

The program is designed for experienced professionals, and tuition reflects the premium nature of the program.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
Executive MBA	$143,144 (total for 4 quarters)	1.2 Cr	For the full Executive MBA program

Stanford University BBA Tuition Fee 2025

Although Stanford University does not offer a traditional Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program, students interested in business studies can choose from various courses offered through the Management Science and Engineering department.

The MS&E curriculum includes core courses in mathematical modeling, systems analysis, organization theory, optimization, probability, statistics, ethics, accounting, computer science, and economics.

Program	Tuition Fee	Details
BBA (Not Offered)	N/A	No BBA program is available at Stanford

Stanford University B.Arch Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford offers a professional undergraduate Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program. Students in the B.Arch program gets the flexibility of choosing electives across various departments, including design, engineering, and humanities.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
B.Arch (Undergraduate)	$21,709 per quarter	18.6L	For full-time enrollment (12-20 units)

Stanford University MD Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford’s Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at the School of Medicine prepares students for a career in the medical field. The program combines clinical training with advanced research, and students are expected to meet the rigorous demands of the curriculum. 

The tuition fees for the MD program reflect its specialized nature and the high costs associated with medical education.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
MD (Medical School)	$22,435 per quarter	19.2L	For the School of Medicine MD program

Stanford University B.J.M.C. Tuition Fee 2025

Stanford does not offer a specific Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (B.J.M.C.) program. However, students interested in journalism and media studies can explore related courses through the university's Communication Department.

Program	Tuition Fee	Details
B.J.M.C. (Not Offered)	N/A	No B.J.M.C. program available at Stanford

Stanford University MFA Tuition Fee 2025

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) at Stanford is a highly respected program emphasizing developing creative skills and artistic expression. It is considered among the most popular programs in the United States, attracting diverse artists, writers, and performers worldwide.

The program is designed for individuals pursuing careers in the arts, including visual arts, creative writing, and theater. The fees are structured similarly to other graduate programs.

Program	Tuition Fee	Tuition Fee in INR	Details
MFA (Fine Arts)	$13,240 per quarter	11.3L	For 8-10 units in most MFA disciplines

Note: The INR values mentioned in all the tables are approximate conversions and may fluctuate with exchange rates.

If you’re considering studying in the USA, upGrad offers personalized study abroad programs in USA, providing expert guidance from application to visa support to help you choose the right university and college for your future.

As you explore further, it is essential to understand the application fees too for the university. Let's proceed ahead!

Stanford University Application Fees

Applying to Stanford University is a significant attempt, and understanding the associated application fees, ranging from INR 7K to 11K, is an essential part of the process. Stanford's application fees vary depending on the level of study — undergraduate or graduate — and certain fee waivers are available for eligible applicants.​

Undergraduate Application Fees

For first-year undergraduate applicants, Stanford requires the submission of the Common Application along with a non-refundable application fee of $90 (INR 7.7K). 

This fee supports the administrative costs associated with processing applications, including the evaluation of academic records, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. 

Stanford offers a complete fee waiver, covering the entire application fee of $90 (INR 7.7k). Applicants who demonstrate financial need may be eligible for a fee waiver. To request a fee waiver, applicants should:

• Determine eligibility based on the Common Application fee waiver guidelines.​
• Indicate "Yes" to the fee waiver question in the application.​
• Have a secondary school counselor verify eligibility either through the Common Application or by submitting the NACAC Fee Waiver Form.​

Graduate Application Fees

For graduate applicants, the application fee is $125 (INR 10.7K), which is also nonrefundable. This fee contributes to the costs of reviewing applications, including academic records, recommendation letters, and personal statements. 

Graduate applicants may be eligible for fee waivers under specific circumstances, such as:​

• GRE Fee Reduction Waiver: Available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have received a GRE Fee Reduction Voucher from ETS.​
• Program Participation Waiver: For participants in certain programs listed by Stanford.​
• School-Based Waiver: For applicants who meet school-specific eligibility requirements and do not qualify for the above waivers.

For graduate applicants, the fee waiver may also cover the full $125 application fee, depending on the applicant’s financial circumstances.

To request a fee waiver, applicants must submit their request at least 10 business days before the application deadline. It's important to note that fee waiver requests submitted after this period may not be reviewed in time for application processing.​

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Payment Methods: Stanford accepts various payment methods for application fees, including credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, Discover, and Diners Club) and bank transfers from U.S. checking accounts.
• Non-Refundable Fees: Both undergraduate and graduate application fees are nonrefundable under any circumstances, including withdrawal of the application prior to receiving a decision.

Applicants need to plan accordingly, ensuring that application fees are submitted on time and any fee waiver requests are made well before deadlines. This proactive approach helps prevent delays or complications in the application process.​

To ensure you meet the admission requirements along with these fee considerations, visit Stanford's Admissions Page for detailed guidance on eligibility, application steps, and deadlines! 

Additional Costs at Stanford University

Attending Stanford University involves several financial commitments beyond tuition, including housing, meals, health insurance, and other fees. Understanding these additional costs is crucial for effective financial planning. 

Below is a detailed overview of these expenses:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Cost in INR
Room and Board (Housing)	It can range from $3,946 to $5,066 per quarter, depending on the specific housing assignment.	3.3L to 4.3L
Books and Supplies	Approximately $825	70.7K
Personal Expenses	Around $4,602 (Encompasses entertainment, groceries, and utilities)	4L
Additional One-Time Fees for New Students	New Student Orientation Fee: $525	45K
	Document Fee: $250	21.4K

Note: The INR values mentioned are approximate conversions and may fluctuate with exchange rates.

Health Insurance

Stanford mandates that all registered students maintain adequate health insurance. This requirement can be fulfilled through Cardinal Care, the university's sponsored health insurance plan, or an equivalent alternative plan with comparable benefits. 

• Cardinal Care covers essential health services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency care, prescriptions, mental health services, and preventive care. It also includes vision and dental benefits for students enrolled in the plan. The annual cost is approximately INR 8.4L.
• For international students on F-1 or J-1 visas, maintaining health insurance is particularly crucial. The Vaden Health Center provides comprehensive information regarding health insurance options and requirements.
• If you opt for an external insurance provider, ensure the plan meets Stanford's minimum coverage requirements. These include coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation, particularly pertinent for international students.

When planning for a Stanford education, international students should be aware of unique financial considerations, including visa requirements and specific financial aid options. Explore ahead!

International Students: Special Financial Considerations

Academic pursuits at Stanford University as an international student involve figuring out several financial obligations unique to your status. Understanding these commitments is essential for effective financial planning and university and U.S. regulations compliance. 

For instance, international students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with U.S. visa regulations, and failure to meet financial obligations could impact their ability to maintain legal status.

Below is a comprehensive overview:

1. Visa Costs

International students must obtain the appropriate visa to study in the United States. For F-1 and J-1 visa applicants, the following fees are applicable:

Aspects	Detail
SEVIS Fee	A mandatory fee of $350 for F-1 visa applicants and $220 for J-1 visa applicants is paid to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.​
Visa Application Fee	A non-refundable fee of $160 for the visa application processing.​
Visa Issuance Reciprocity Fee	Depending on your country of citizenship, an additional fee may be required, varying by country.​

2. Financial Proof Requirements for Visa Applications

To obtain an I-20 or DS-2019 form necessary for visa applications, students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses for at least the first year of study. This includes:

• Tuition and Fees: Proof of funds to cover the estimated annual tuition and mandatory fees.​
• Living Expenses: Documentation showing funds to cover housing, food, personal expenses, and other living costs.​
• Dependents: If bringing dependents, additional financial proof is required to cover their expenses.​

The Bechtel International Center outlines detailed financial budgets and acceptable proof of funding. 

To effectively manage these financial obligations:

• Early Planning: Begin financial preparations well before your program start date to ensure all fees and proof requirements are met on time.​
• Consult University Resources: Contact the Bechtel International Center and the Vaden Health Center for guidance on financial planning, insurance options, and compliance with university policies.​
• Budgeting: Develop a detailed budget accounting for all anticipated expenses, including visa-related costs, additional fees, and living expenses, to ensure financial readiness.​

By proactively addressing these financial considerations, international students can focus on their academic endeavors with confidence and clarity regarding their financial commitments.

Also Read: How to Settle in the USA from India in 2025

Understanding Financial Aid Options for Stanford University Fees

Financial aid is a key factor for many students pursuing higher education, especially those studying in a competitive academic environment. At Stanford, approximately 72% of students receive financial assistance toward the cost of attendance. 

Moreover, families earning less than INR 1.2 Cr with typical assets are not required to pay tuition, and those earning less than INR 85L are exempt from tuition, room, and board costs.

This financial support is crucial for students to pursue their academic goals without worrying about the burden of tuition fees and living expenses. 

Below is a detailed overview of internal and external scholarships available for Stanford students:​

Internal Scholarships

Stanford provides numerous internal scholarships, primarily need-based, to assist students in covering tuition and other educational expenses.

Eligibility for these scholarships, such as the Stanford Scholarship, is determined through a thorough assessment of financial need, which considers factors such as family income, size, and assets. 

Notably, Stanford's financial assistance program ensures that admitted students can attend regardless of their economic background, with the average scholarship and grant amount for the Class of 2027 being approximately INR 60L.

Scholarship Name	Type of Scholarship	Benefits	Eligibility
Stanford Scholarship	Need-Based	Varies based on financial need; can cover full tuition, room, and board	Undergraduate students demonstrating financial need
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program	Merit-Based	Full funding for graduate studies, including tuition, living stipend, and additional benefits	Graduate students from all disciplines with leadership potential
Stegner Fellowship	Merit-Based	A two-year creative writing fellowship that includes a stipend of INR 42L per year, health insurance, and tuition coverage	Writers of exceptional talent in fiction or poetry.
Bechtel International Center Scholarships	Need-Based	Financial assistance to international students to help cover educational expenses	International students demonstrating financial need

In addition to internal scholarships, students can also explore external funding opportunities from various organizations and foundations worldwide.

External Scholarships

In addition to internal scholarships, Stanford students can apply for external scholarships provided by various organizations and institutions such as USIEF and the British Government.

These scholarships are typically awarded based on specific criteria, such as the student's field of study, extracurricular involvement, or community service.

Here are some of the external scholarships to be considered:

Scholarship Name	Provided By	Type of Scholarship	Benefits
Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship	United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF)	Merit-Based	Tuition, living stipend, and travel expenses for study in the U.S.
Marshall Scholarship	British Government	Merit-Based	Tuition, living expenses, and travel costs for study in the UK

To effectively manage the financial commitments associated with attending Stanford, students are advised to:​

• Explore All Financial Aid Options: Utilize Stanford's Financial Aid Office resources to identify and apply for both internal and external scholarships.​
• Maintain Awareness of Deadlines: Be mindful of application deadlines for various scholarships and financial aid packages to ensure timely consideration.​
• Budget Wisely: Develop a comprehensive budget that accounts for tuition, living expenses, and other costs to manage finances effectively throughout the academic year.​

By proactively engaging with available financial aid resources and maintaining diligent financial planning, students can significantly alleviate the financial burdens of their educational journey at Stanford University.​

Also Read: Study Abroad Scholarships to Help You Fulfill Your Dreams

Why Stanford is Worth the Investment?

Stanford University consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide, reflecting its academic excellence and global influence. In the 2025 QS Rankings, Stanford holds the 6th spot globally, while the Times Higher Education ranks it 6th as well. 

Additionally, U.S. News ranking places Stanford 4th among U.S. National Universities, underscoring its prestige and reputation in both the U.S. and worldwide. 

Beyond the rankings, here’s why Stanford is worth the investment for you:

• Competitive Compensation: Stanford graduates command impressive starting salaries across various disciplines. For instance, the Graduate School of Education's 2024 Master's graduates reported a median salary of INR 69.7L, ranging between 43.3L and 86.3L.
• MBA Graduate Earnings: The Graduate School of Business reports that the median base salary for the Class of 2023 was INR 1.6 Cr, reflecting a year-over-year increase.

Key factors other than the placement aspects are:

• Entrepreneurial Impact: Stanford alumni have founded over 30,000 companies, generating annual revenues exceeding $2.7 trillion and creating approximately 5.4 million jobs globally.

Innovations such as Hewlett-Packard, Google, and Sun Microsystems are rooted in Stanford, highlighting the university's role as a breeding ground for groundbreaking enterprises.

• Prestigious Ranking: Stanford consistently ranks among the top universities globally, enhancing the employability of its graduates. The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2025 rankings place Stanford third, emphasizing its reputation for fostering lucrative career paths.
• Diverse Industry Placement: Graduates secure positions across various sectors, including finance, technology, and consulting. Top employers such as Google, Apple, and McKinsey actively recruit Stanford talent. 
• Extensive Network: With a global network of over 240,000 alumni, Stanford facilitates invaluable connections that open doors to diverse career opportunities worldwide. 

In summary, a Stanford education not only provides immediate financial returns through competitive salaries but also offers long-term career benefits via a powerful alumni network and global recognition, making it a sound investment for future success.