Stanford Open House welcomes prospective students, families, and educators for an immersive look at campus life, groundbreaking research, and innovative programs. This event highlights how Stanford connects academic excellence with real-world impact through hands-on experiences and personalized guidance.
Across sprawling lawns and state-of-the-art labs, visitors explore pathways from artificial intelligence to public service, guided by current students, faculty, and alumni. The event is designed to turn curiosity into confident decision-making for anyone considering the next step in their educational journey.
| Event Date | Time | Location | Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 5–6, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | Main Quad, Stanford Campus | High school students, families, educators |
| April 12–13, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | Engineering Center & Cantor Arts Center | Prospective undergrads and transfer applicants |
| Virtual sessions available | Evening slots | Online platform | International families and working students |
| On-site tours | 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM | Depart from Student Center | All registered guests |
Undergraduate Admissions Experience
Stanford Open House highlights the undergraduate admissions journey with tailored sessions that explain application options, deadlines, and financial aid. Students gain insight into programs such as Human Biology, Computer Science, and International Relations through interactive exhibits and mini-lectures.
Admissions advisors guide visitors through campus priorities such as collaboration across disciplines, undergraduate research, and community impact. Families learn how to build a balanced college list, compare financial packages, and understand deadlines without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Small-group workshops allow prospective students to practice interview skills, review essays, and discuss major pathways with current Stanford undergraduates. These interactions help visitors picture themselves thriving in rigorous courses, student organizations, and residential life on campus.
Graduate and Professional Programs
Graduate and professional school representatives explain cohort-based learning, mentorship structures, and hands-on projects at Stanford Open House. MBA, MS in Data Science, Education Policy, and Medicine candidates learn about specialized tracks, internship partnerships, and alumni outcomes shaping their field.
Each program area features sample schedules, capstone experiences, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and nonprofit partners. Visitors can compare admissions cycles, application fees, and standardized test policies with guidance from current graduate students and faculty members.
Interactive exhibits showcase research centers such as the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence and the Woods Institute for the Environment. Prospective graduate students see how lab work, field studies, and policy labs translate into careers in technology, public service, and global health.
Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Campus Resources
Stanford Open House provides detailed information on financial aid, including need-based grants, merit scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Financial aid staff help families understand the cost of attendance, budgeting tools, and application procedures for federal, state, and university support.
Campus resource booths introduce visitors to academic support, mental health services, career coaching, and multicultural programs. Students learn about housing options, dining plans, transportation, and safety measures that contribute to a balanced college experience.
Guides highlight sustainability initiatives, internship pipelines, and global engagement options like study abroad and international research. This overview helps families evaluate how campus services align with their academic, personal, and professional goals.
Planning Your Stanford Journey Beyond Open House
- Register early for preferred tour times and session availability.
- Review program-specific prerequisites and application timelines.
- Prepare questions about research opportunities, internships, and student life.
- Connect with academic advisors and financial aid staff during open office hours.
- Follow up with admissions contacts using the personalized link provided at check-in.
FAQ
Reader questions
How early should my family arrive for the main campus tour on April 5?
Arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled tour time to complete check-in, receive a campus map, and settle in before the group departs.
Can high school counselors attend sessions designed for parents and students?
Yes, counselors are welcome to join student–family sessions and gather materials to support their work when advising your college planning process.
Are there specific sessions for transfer applicants at Stanford Open House? Yes, dedicated transfer sessions cover credit evaluation, application strategy, and pathway options tailored to students moving from community college or other institutions. What accessibility services are available during the event for guests with mobility or sensory needs?
Registered guests can request wheelchair access, large-print guides, quiet spaces, and captioned sessions in advance to ensure a comfortable visit for all needs.