A new way to tour Stanford
A typical Stanford tour can feel impersonal, leaving you with more questions than answers. You’re just a face in the crowd following a scripted tour led by a guide the school assigns you.
SchoolScoops offers private Stanford University tours tailored to your interests. Choose your own Stanford student tour guide and enjoy a personalized campus visit where you'll get candid answers to your questions.
SchoolScoops is the more personal way to tour Stanford University
Private and personalized Stanford tours
On a traditional Stanford University campus tour you’re just a number in a big group. With SchoolScoops, you can book a private Stanford University tour led by a real Stanford student, giving you a personalized campus visit and the chance to ask all the questions that are important to you.
Choose your own tour guide
Unlike a traditional Stanford University campus tour, SchoolScoops lets you choose your own tour guide. Whether you want to meet an engineering major, a student-athlete or a fellow transfer student, you'll get authentic insights and advice from someone who truly gets you.
No scripts, just scoops
Traditional Stanford University campus tours are essentially a sales pitch—the tour guide works for the school and their job is to show you the highlights. SchoolScoops guides don’t work for their school, so there’s no sales pitch—just honest, unfiltered advice about the Stanford experience.
Find out if Stanford is the school for you
Choosing where to go to college is a major decision and a huge investment. A private Stanford tour helps you decide if Stanford University is the right fit for your academic goals, career ambitions and college experience.
Can't make it to campus?
Book a 1-on-1 video chat with a Stanford student for personalized insights. Learn about academics, campus culture, and Stanford life without leaving home.
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Real feedback on student-led campus tours
Get to know Stanford University
Stanford University is a world-renowned private research university in Stanford, California - just outside Palo Alto and 30 miles south of San Francisco. Known for innovation, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence, Stanford offers top programs in engineering, business, sciences, humanities, and the arts. A Stanford University campus tour showcases how its Silicon Valley location fuels creativity, collaboration, and real-world impact.
Overview
Founded in 1885, Stanford University has become one of the most prestigious research institutions in the world. With seven schools and over 200 degree programs, Stanford fosters interdisciplinary learning and discovery across technology, social sciences, and the arts. Visitors who book a Stanford University tour can explore the Main Quad, meet students, and experience the dynamic campus culture that drives innovation at the heart of Silicon Valley.
Size
As of fall 2023, Stanford enrolls about 18,283 students-8,049 undergraduates and 10,234 graduate students. A private Stanford University campus tour lets you experience how a university of global stature maintains a collaborative, close-knit community among its students and faculty.
Acceptance rate
Stanford University has an acceptance rate of approximately 4%, making it one of the most selective universities in the country. Admitted students generally score between 1440–1570 on the SAT or 32–35 on the ACT. A Stanford University tour gives you a firsthand look at what life is like for those who make it into this elite academic environment.
Cost
For the 2024–2025 academic year, undergraduate tuition and fees at Stanford University total around $66,162. Graduate tuition varies by program, particularly in fields like Engineering and Business. Around 61% of undergraduates receive financial aid, making a Stanford education more accessible than many expect. During a private Stanford campus tour, guides often share real experiences about scholarships, budgeting, and living in the Bay Area.
Ranking
According to U.S. News & World Report, Stanford University ranks #4 among National Universities and consistently appears in the top five worldwide for innovation, entrepreneurship, and STEM education. A Stanford University campus visit shows why it’s considered one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
Academics
Stanford offers 65+ undergraduate majors and 200+ graduate programs across seven schools, with popular fields including Computer Science, Engineering, and Biological Sciences. The university’s 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio allows for deep collaboration and mentorship. On a Stanford University tour, you’ll learn how classes, labs, and startups intersect to drive research and discovery.
Traditions
Stanford traditions celebrate its spirit of creativity and community-like Fountain Hopping, Full Moon on the Quad, the Big Game rivalry with UC Berkeley, and Wacky Walk at Commencement. Experiencing these through a Stanford campus tour gives you a glimpse of the energy and camaraderie that define Cardinal life.
Campus landmarks
Iconic spots include Hoover Tower, the Main Quad, Memorial Church, Cantor Arts Center, and the Dish walking trail. Visitors on a Stanford University tour can enjoy breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Mountains while exploring one of the most beautiful campuses in California.
Student body
Over 85% of Stanford students come from outside California, with significant representation from across the U.S. and more than 120 countries. A private Stanford campus visit provides insights into the university’s diverse, global, and highly motivated community.
Become a SchoolScoops guide
In college? Earn $40/hour hosting 1-on-1 campus tours and video chats with future students.
Become a guideYour Stanford University questions, answered
Where is Stanford University located?
Stanford University is located in Stanford, California, near Palo Alto in the heart of Silicon Valley-about 30 miles south of San Francisco and 20 miles northwest of San Jose. A Stanford University campus tour lets you explore this prime location, surrounded by tech innovation, culture, and California sunshine.
Is Stanford University in the Ivy League?
No, Stanford is not part of the Ivy League, but it’s often considered equally prestigious. Alongside Harvard, Yale, and MIT, Stanford is consistently ranked among the top global universities for academics and innovation.
What is Stanford University known for?
Stanford is best known for engineering, computer science, business, and entrepreneurship. Its strong connection to Silicon Valley has led to the creation of companies like Google, Netflix, and Hewlett-Packard. Stanford also excels in humanities, medicine, and social sciences.
How hard is it to get into Stanford University?
Stanford’s acceptance rate is around 4%. To compete, applicants generally need a GPA near 4.0, top test scores, and strong extracurriculars. A Stanford University campus visit helps prospective students understand what makes successful applicants stand out.
How much does it cost to attend Stanford University?
For 2024–2025, undergraduate tuition and fees total about $66,162, with estimated total costs (including housing, meals, and fees) around $92,000 annually. Stanford offers need-based aid that meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.
What GPA do you need to get into Stanford University?
Admitted students typically have an unweighted GPA of 3.9 or higher, with most ranking in the top 10% of their class.
When was Stanford University founded?
Stanford was founded in 1885 by Leland and Jane Stanford in memory of their son, Leland Jr. The university officially opened in 1891.
What is the Stanford University mascot?
Stanford’s mascot is the Stanford Tree, a playful symbol of the university’s spirit, though athletic teams are officially known as the Cardinal.
How big is Stanford University?
Stanford’s campus covers 8,180 acres, making it one of the largest in the U.S. It features state-of-the-art facilities, palm-lined boulevards, and stunning architecture.
How far is Stanford from San Francisco?
Stanford is about 30 miles (roughly 45 minutes by car) from San Francisco. Many students take weekend trips to explore the Bay Area or attend tech and cultural events nearby.
How can I visit Stanford University?
You can register for an official tour through the Stanford Visitor Center, take a self-guided walk, or book a private Stanford University tour through SchoolScoops for a personalized, 1-on-1 experience with a current student.
Does Stanford University offer private or virtual campus tours?
Yes! Through SchoolScoops, you can book private Stanford University campus tours or virtual tours guided by real students who share honest insights about life, academics, and opportunities at Stanford.
Interested in other schools?
SchoolScoops also offers tours and video chats at many other schools
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