Let’s talk about the big question: how much does it really cost to go to Stanford? The number you initially see, often called the “sticker price,” can be a bit shocking. It’s important to understand what this number includes, and more importantly, what it doesn’t tell you about what you might actually pay.
Stanford’s cost of attendance is made up of several things. There’s tuition, of course, but also room and board if you plan to live on campus. Then you have to factor in books, supplies, and other personal expenses. Don’t forget about travel costs, especially if you’re coming from out of state or even another country. And, like it or not, health insurance is a must. All these things add up to the total “sticker price.” For the 2025-2026 academic year, the total cost is estimated to be around $96,513. This includes $67,731 for tuition, $12,138 for room and board, $3,300 for books and supplies, and other fees. New students also have to pay a one-time New Student Orientation Fee ($525) and a Document Fee ($250).
Tuition and Fees: The Core Expense
Let’s be real, when you look at the cost of Stanford, the tuition is the big one. It’s the main expense you’ve gotta wrap your head around. For the 2025-2026 academic year, you’re looking at a hefty sum. It’s not pocket change, and it’s important to understand what you’re paying for.
Tuition covers the academic side of things, the professors, the classes, the resources, all that jazz. But there are also fees. These fees can cover things like student services, access to campus facilities, and other stuff that keeps the university running. It all adds up, and it’s important to factor it in when you’re budgeting.
To give you a rough idea, Stanford’s tuition fees are around $21,709 per quarter, which comes out to about $55,473 for a 3.5-quarter academic year. Keep in mind that this number can change, so always check the official Stanford website for the most up-to-date information. It’s a good idea to estimate your undergraduate charges to get a better idea of what you’ll be paying.
