Stanford Graduate School of Business FAQ

Answers to the most common questions about Stanford GSB admissions, GMAT scores, deadlines, and more.

Admissions

What is the acceptance rate at Stanford GSB?

Stanford GSB does not publish an acceptance rate. The Class of 2027 enrolled 434 students from 7,259 applicants.

What GMAT score do I need for Stanford GSB?

There is no minimum. Class of 2027 averages: 738 on the classic GMAT (10th edition, range 540 to 780) and 689 on GMAT Focus (range 615 to 785). 58% of the class submitted the GMAT and 44% the GRE.

What GPA do I need for Stanford GSB?

There is no minimum GPA. The Class of 2027 average was 3.76 on a 4.0 scale.

Program

How long is the Stanford GSB MBA program?

Two years, full-time and on campus. The program begins in September.

What is the class size at Stanford GSB?

The Class of 2027 has 434 students.

How international is the Stanford GSB MBA?

International students make up 38% of the Class of 2027, from 64 countries.

Career

What is the median salary for Stanford GSB graduates?

The Class of 2025 median base salary was $185,000 and the median signing bonus was $30,000.

What share of Stanford GSB graduates find jobs?

In the Class of 2025, 90% of job seekers had an offer and 81% had accepted an offer within three months of graduation. 16% of the class started a new business.

What are the top industries for Stanford GSB graduates?

For the Class of 2025: technology (35%), finance (33%), and consulting (11%).

Financial

How much is tuition at Stanford GSB?

First-year MBA tuition for 2026-27 is $89,187.

What is the total cost of attendance at Stanford GSB?

The 2026-27 first-year cost of attendance is $140,940 for a single student and $168,825 for a married student.

What is the application fee for Stanford GSB?

$275. Defer-eligible applicants pay $100, and the fee is waived for U.S. military service members and veterans.

Application

What essays are required for the Stanford GSB application?

Two essays: "What matters most to you, and why?" (up to 650 words) and "Why Stanford for you?" (up to 350 words). Joint MBA and MSx applicants write a third essay.

How many recommendation letters does Stanford GSB require?

Two: one from your current direct supervisor (or next best alternative) and one from someone else who has supervised you.

Does Stanford GSB require the TOEFL or IELTS?

Only if any of your undergraduate courses were taught in a language other than English, unless you later completed a graduate program taught entirely in English. Minimums: TOEFL 100 (5.0 for tests from January 21, 2026), IELTS 7.0, PTE 68.

Does Stanford GSB accept test waivers?

No. All MBA applicants must submit a valid GMAT or GRE score. The Executive Assessment is not accepted.

Background

Where is Stanford GSB located?

Stanford, California, United States.

What undergraduate backgrounds do Stanford GSB students have?

The Class of 2027 majored in engineering (29%), business/commerce (24%), economics (18%), social sciences (12%), math/sciences (12%), and arts/humanities (5%).

What industries do Stanford GSB students come from?

The largest pre-MBA industries for the Class of 2027 were consulting (20%), investment management/PE/VC (17%), and technology (15%).