Columbia vs Stanford
How Columbia and Stanford stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Columbia | Stanford | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 4.29% | 3.61% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1510-1570 | 1500-1570 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Required |
| Type | Private | Private |
| Location | NY | CA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $89,694 | $90,000 |
| Average cost after aid | $24,498 | $17,000 |
| Supplemental essays | 6 | 8 |
- Stanford is harder to get into than Columbia (3.61% versus 4.29%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Stanford is usually the cheaper option ($17,000 versus $24,498 per year on average).
- On testing, Columbia is test-optional while Stanford requires SAT or ACT scores.
- Stanford asks for more supplemental writing (8 essays versus 6), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Columbia vs Stanford FAQ
Is Columbia or Stanford harder to get into?
Stanford is harder to get into, admitting about 3.61% of applicants versus 4.29% at Columbia.
Is Columbia or Stanford cheaper?
After financial aid, Stanford is usually cheaper, about $17,000 per year on average versus $24,498 at Columbia.
See your real chances at Columbia and Stanford.
Build my college list