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Stanford University

Stanford University Scholarship For Indian Students 2025

Stanford, USA

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#5
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Think Stanford is too expensive? Over 50% of Stanford undergraduate students receive financial aid, and Indian students can get Stanford University scholarships that cover tuition, housing, and living expenses. However, financial aid for international students is limited and highly competitive.

Can Indian Students Afford Stanford?

  • Tuition costs between ₹45-₹55 lakh per year, but most students don’t pay full price.
  • 100% of demonstrated financial need covered for those who qualify.
  • Graduate students receive funding between ₹50-₹65 lakh per year through fellowships and assistantships.
  • No student loans required – Stanford provides grants, so students don’t graduate with debt.

Why Apply for a Stanford Scholarship?

  • Financial aid reduces costs for middle and lower-income families.
  • Graduate students get stipends, research funding, and tuition waivers.
  • Stanford allows students to combine university aid with external scholarships.

Many Indian students receive Stanford University undergraduate scholarships for international students or research funding for master's and PhD programs. 

If you are planning to study in USA, understanding Stanford University scholarship requirements early helps students plan better. Let’s go step by step through eligibility, available scholarships, and how to apply.

Scholarship Highlights

  • Average Scholarships – Covers full or partial tuition based on financial need.
  • Deadline – Must apply for financial aid at the time of admission; no late applications allowed.
  • Estimated Budget – Tuition costs range between ₹45-₹55 lakh per year, but scholarships reduce the burden.
  • External Scholarships – Students can apply for additional funding from organizations like FulbrightChevening, and Inlaks.

Stanford University Scholarships for Indian Students

Stanford offers need-based scholarships to Indian students who demonstrate financial need. Unlike many top universities, Stanford does not provide merit-based scholarships, so funding depends entirely on a student’s family’s financial situation.

International students must apply for financial aid when submitting their admission application. Late requests are not accepted.

Stanford University Scholarships for Indians

Scholarship NameWho Can Apply?Coverage
Stanford University Scholarship for IndiansUndergraduate students from IndiaPartial or full tuition based on financial need
Knight-Hennessy Scholars ProgramGraduate students (all disciplines)Full tuition, stipend, leadership training
Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai FellowshipMBA students from IndiaCovers 80% of tuition at Stanford GSB
Stanford University Scholarship for MastersMaster’s studentsPartial to full tuition based on financial need
Graduate Research AssistantshipsMaster’s & PhD studentsTuition waiver + monthly stipend
Teaching AssistantshipsMaster’s & PhD studentsTuition coverage + stipend

Stanford University undergraduate scholarships for international students are competitive, and students must submit all financial documents accurately to maximize aid.

Stanford University Scholarship for International Students

Worried about affording Stanford? Stanford University scholarships for international students are designed to help students who demonstrate financial need.

Stanford University Scholarships for International Students

Scholarship NameWho Can Apply?Coverage
Stanford University Scholarship for International StudentsUndergraduate studentsPartial or full tuition based on family financial need
Knight-Hennessy Scholars ProgramGraduate students (all fields)Full tuition, stipend, leadership development
Stanford GSB FellowshipsMBA studentsPartial or full tuition support
Graduate FellowshipsMaster’s & PhD studentsTuition waiver + research or teaching stipend

Stanford University scholarship requirements vary by program, so applicants should check their specific department for additional funding opportunities.

Stanford University Scholarships for Graduate Students

Graduate students at Stanford have multiple funding options, but securing a Stanford University scholarship for masters and PhD programs requires early planning. PhD students typically receive full funding, while master’s students often secure partial tuition waivers or external scholarships.

Stanford University Graduate Scholarships & Fellowships

Scholarship NameWho Can Apply?Coverage
Knight-Hennessy Scholars ProgramMaster’s & PhD students (all disciplines)Full tuition + living stipend
Stanford GSB FellowshipsMBA studentsPartial or full tuition
Graduate Research AssistantshipsPhD & some master’s studentsFull tuition waiver + monthly stipend
Teaching AssistantshipsPhD & some master’s studentsTuition coverage + stipend
Stanford University Scholarship for MastersMaster’s students with financial needPartial tuition based on financial circumstances
External Fellowships (Fulbright, Chevening, Inlaks, etc.)Graduate studentsPartial or full tuition funding from external sources

Stanford University Scholarships for Undergraduate Students

Stanford University undergraduate scholarships for international students make it possible for students with financial needs to afford a world-class education. The university does not offer merit-based scholarships, but it ensures that 100% of demonstrated financial need is met.

Stanford University Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students

Scholarship NameWho Can Apply?Coverage
Stanford Need-Based GrantUndergraduate students with financial needPartial or full tuition, based on family income
Stanford Undergraduate Aid ProgramAdmitted international studentsCovers demonstrated financial need
External Scholarships (K.C. Mahindra, Tata, Inlaks, etc.)Indian & international studentsPartial tuition & living costs
Work-Study ProgramUndergraduate students on financial aidHelps cover personal expenses

Financial Aid Breakdown for Undergraduates

Family Income (₹)Scholarship CoverageWhat’s Covered?
Less than ₹62 lakh ($75,000)Full tuition, housing, and living expensesTuition, accommodation, meals, books, travel
₹62-₹82 lakh ($75,001-$100,000)Partial tuition & living supportTuition, some personal expenses
Above ₹1 crore ($125,000+)Limited aidCase-by-case assessment

Stanford University scholarship requirements include tax returns, bank statements, and completing the CSS Profile.

Eligibility Criteria for Stanford University Scholarships

Every applicant’s case is reviewed individually, considering household size, number of children in college, and overall financial resources.

Who Qualifies for Stanford Scholarships?

  • Low-income families receive full tuition and living cost coverage.
  • Middle-income families may get partial tuition coverage based on assets and expenses.
  • Higher-income families rarely qualify unless they have multiple children in college.
  • International students must apply for aid during admission. No late applications allowed.

Average Scholarship for the Class of 2027

Total Family IncomeAverage Scholarship & GrantAverage Net Cost% of Students Who Receive Aid
Less than ₹62 lakh ($75,000)₹76 lakh ($92,303)₹3.6 lakh ($4,380)98%
₹62-₹82 lakh ($75,001-$100,000)₹72 lakh ($87,348)₹4.9 lakh ($5,890)97%
₹82-₹1 crore ($100,001-$125,000)₹63 lakh ($76,834)₹11 lakh ($13,201)97%
₹1-₹1.2 crore ($125,001-$150,000)₹57 lakh ($69,600)₹17 lakh ($19,979)100%
₹1.2-₹1.6 crore ($150,001-$200,000)₹46 lakh ($57,205)₹26 lakh ($31,459)94%
₹1.6-₹2 crore ($200,001-$250,000)₹36 lakh ($44,645)₹38 lakh ($45,520)89%
Above ₹2 crore ($250,000+)Aid eligibility varies, with fewer students receiving grants.

Most families earning over ₹2 crore ($250,000) only qualify if they have multiple children in college.

Stanford does not allow international students to apply for financial aid after admission, so students must submit all required documents on time.

Required Documents for Stanford University Scholarships

To apply for a Stanford University scholarship for international students, applicants must provide accurate financial details. Stanford reviews family income, savings, assets, and financial responsibilities before awarding aid.

Documents Needed for Financial Aid

DocumentWhy It’s Required
CSS ProfileProvides Stanford with a detailed financial overview.
Family Tax ReturnsNeeded to verify income levels and determine scholarship eligibility.
Bank StatementsShows financial assets and savings that may impact aid eligibility.
Employment VerificationConfirms annual salary and other sources of income.
Proof of Additional IncomeRequired for applicants with business ownership, investments, or other revenue streams.
Social Security Number (SSN) or ITINInternational students must obtain an SSN or ITIN to receive scholarship funds.

International students applying for Stanford University scholarships for Indian students must ensure every financial document is complete. Incomplete applications reduce aid eligibility.

Stanford’s need-based scholarships make education affordable, but financial aid is limited for international students. Planning ahead and submitting all documents on time maximizes your chances of receiving the highest aid possible.

How Scholarships are Awarded at Stanford University

Stanford offers need-based scholarships, not merit-based. Financial aid is determined by family income, savings, and financial situation. International students must apply for aid at the time of admission—Stanford does not allow students to apply for financial aid later during their undergraduate years.

Who Gets Stanford Scholarships?

Family Income RangeWhat Stanford Covers
Less than ₹60 lakh per yearFull tuition, housing, and living expenses
₹60 lakh - ₹1.2 crore per yearPartial tuition coverage
Above ₹1.2 crore per yearLimited or no aid
  • Stanford covers 100% of demonstrated financial need for students who qualify.
  • Scholarships are grants, not loans, so students graduate without debt.
  • Graduate students receive assistantships and fellowships that cover tuition and provide stipends.

Important Rules for International Students

  • Limited funding is available – Stanford has a restricted amount of financial aid for international students.
  • You must apply for aid at the time of admission – If you don’t, you won’t be eligible for aid during your undergraduate years.
  • Changing citizenship status can affect eligibility – If an international student gains U.S. citizenship during their studies, they may qualify for federal student aid starting in that quarter.
  • A USA taxpayer identification number is required – To receive university scholarship funds, students must obtain a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Stanford’s Bechtel International Center provides guidance on this.

Tips to Get a Scholarship at Stanford University

You need to apply early, submit the right documents, and plan your funding carefully. 

The table below breaks down key strategies to improve your chances of securing Stanford University scholarships for Indian students and international applicants.

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Aid

TipWhy It MattersWhat You Need to Do
Apply for Aid with Your Admission ApplicationStanford does not allow international students to apply for aid after admission.Submit your financial aid request along with your admission application. If you don’t, you won’t be eligible for aid later.
Show Clear Proof of Financial NeedStanford evaluates family income, savings, and assets before awarding aid.Provide tax returns, bank statements, and income proof to strengthen your case.
Look for External ScholarshipsStanford allows students to use outside funding in addition to university aid.

Apply for options like:

  • Fulbright-Nehru Scholarship
  • Inlaks Foundation Scholarship
  • Chevening Scholarship
Check Graduate FellowshipsMost PhD students get full tuition coverage through research and teaching assistantships.Look for funding through departmental fellowships, assistantships, and research grants.

early and providing accurate financial details increases your chances of securing full or partial funding.

How to Apply for Scholarships at Stanford University

Applying for a Stanford University scholarship starts with the admission process. International students must apply for aid at the time of admission. Missing this step means they won’t be eligible for aid during their undergraduate years.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Stanford Scholarships

StepWhat You Need to DoWhy It Matters
Step 1: Submit Your Admission ApplicationApply through the Common Application and indicate that you need financial aid.Stanford does not allow international students to apply for aid after admission.
Step 2: Complete the CSS ProfileFill out the CSS Profile with family income, tax returns, and financial statements.Stanford uses this form to assess financial need.
Step 3: Submit Additional Financial DocumentsProvide bank statements, income proof, and employment verification.Accurate documents ensure you receive the correct scholarship amount.
Step 4: Check for Graduate FellowshipsMaster’s and PhD students should explore research and teaching assistantships.These positions cover tuition and provide stipends for living expenses.
Step 5: Apply for External ScholarshipsApply for Fulbright-Nehru, Inlaks, and Chevening Scholarships.Combining Stanford aid with external funding reduces personal costs.
Step 6: Review and Accept Your Aid OfferOnce admitted, Stanford will send a Financial Aid Award Letter.Students can accept, appeal, or explore other funding options.

Scholarship Application Deadlines at Stanford University

Stanford has strict financial aid deadlines for undergraduate and graduate applicants. Missing them reduces aid eligibility.

Undergraduate Scholarship Deadlines

Application TypeFinancial Aid DeadlineAdmission Decision Release
Early ActionNovember 15Mid-December
Regular DecisionFebruary 15Late March
Transfer ApplicantsMarch 15May

Students who don’t submit their financial aid application with their admission form will not be eligible for aid later.

Graduate Scholarship Deadlines

Graduate students have varying deadlines based on their program. Most applications close between December and March.

PhD applicants should apply early—funding is limited, and early applicants get priority.
Master’s students must check individual school deadlines for fellowships and assistantships.

Stanford University scholarships for international students require early financial aid submission. Late applications may not be considered for funding.

Stanford University Scholarship Calculator – Quick Cost Estimator

The university offers need-based scholarships that significantly reduce costs. To estimate how much aid you might receive, Stanford provides two tools:

MyinTuition Quick College Cost Estimator

  • Fast estimate based on six basic financial questions.
  • Takes a few minutes to complete.
  • Gives a rough idea of expected family contribution.
  • Secure—Stanford does not store personal financial data.

Net Price Calculator – Detailed Cost Breakdown

  • More in-depth estimate using income, assets, and expenses.
  • Best used with completed tax returns.
  • Provides a closer estimate of need-based aid eligibility.
  • Useful for students applying for Stanford University scholarships for Indian students.
ToolBest ForWhat It EstimatesTime Required
MyinTuition Quick EstimatorQuick, ballpark estimateApproximate family contributionA few minutes
Net Price CalculatorMore detailed financial aid estimateNeed-based aid & expected tuition costs15-20 minutes

International students outside the U.S. may not get a fully accurate estimate, but these tools help with financial planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a full scholarship to Stanford?

Yes, Stanford offers need-based financial aid that can cover full tuition, housing, and other expenses for students who qualify. Many students receive Stanford University Scholarship packages that significantly reduce costs.

Does Stanford offer scholarships to international students?

Yes, Stanford University Scholarship for international students is available. Stanford follows a need-blind admission policy for USA students but considers financial need when admitting international students.

Is Stanford good for Indian students?

Yes, Stanford is one of the best universities for Indian students, offering top-ranked programs, strong research opportunities, and a vibrant international community. Many Indian students receive Stanford University Scholarship for Indians, making it more affordable.

Is Stanford free for low-income students?

Yes, students from families earning less than $100,000 (₹82 lakh) per year can receive full financial aid, covering tuition and living expenses under Stanford University Scholarship requirements.

Does Stanford give merit scholarships to Indians?

Stanford does not offer merit-based scholarships. However, Stanford University Scholarship for Indian students is need-based, ensuring financial support for students who qualify.

What GPA is required to get a scholarship at Stanford?

There is no fixed GPA requirement for scholarships since Stanford awards need-based financial aid. However, for admission, a GPA of 3.9+ (out of 4.0) or 95%+ in CBSE/ICSE is recommended.

Are there sports scholarships available at Stanford?

Yes, Stanford offers athletic scholarships for exceptional student-athletes through its NCAA Division I sports programs. However, these are highly competitive.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at Stanford?

Yes, students can apply for both Stanford University Scholarship and external scholarships. However, Stanford may adjust its aid package if a student receives external funding.

Does Stanford offer financial aid for transfer students?

Yes, transfer students can apply for Stanford University undergraduate scholarships for international students, but admission as a transfer student is highly competitive.

What percentage of Stanford students receive scholarships?

About 58% of Stanford students receive financial aid, and one in three students pays no tuition under the Stanford University Scholarship requirements.

Are there country-specific scholarships for Stanford students?

Stanford does not offer country-specific scholarships, but Indian students can apply for JN Tata Endowment, Inlaks Foundation, and Fulbright-Nehru Fellowships.

Can I get a scholarship at Stanford without SAT/ACT scores?

Yes, Stanford has made SAT/ACT optional, and scholarship eligibility is not affected by test scores. However, strong scores improve admission chances.

Does Stanford provide scholarships for online degree programs?

No, Stanford University Scholarship for masters and undergraduate students applies only to full-time on-campus programs. Online courses do not qualify for financial aid.

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