Stanford is my dream school! Can anyone who has been through the process tell me what GPA I should aim for to get into Stanford? I know there's no guarantee, but having a target would really useful.
While Stanford University doesn't publish a minimum GPA requirement, entering students typically have very high GPAs. According to recent admissions data, the average GPA of admitted Stanford students was around 3.96 on a 4.0 scale. That said, Stanford has a holistic admissions process, which means they consider more than just your GPA.
In addition to strong grades, applicants typically show evidence of advanced coursework and a demanding schedule, leadership in extracurricular activities, strong SAT or ACT scores (though standardized test scores will be optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle), and compelling essays. You should also ask for recommendations from teachers who know you well and can discuss your strengths in detail.
Remember that exceeding these numbers does not guarantee admission, nor does failing to meet them definitively exclude you. Every part of your application contributes to the overall impression of who you are as a student and person. So although aiming for a GPA above 3.9 can increase your chances, focus on your application as a whole to show Stanford that you're a good fit for their campus.
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