GRE Score for Stanford – Latest Requirements by Program (2025-26)

GRE  is the most universally accepted test for candidates applying for postgraduate studies. It measures your verbal ability, quantitative ability, and analytical writing, which are crucial metrics to judge students.

For students interested in applying to Stanford University, it is crucial to know the GRE score for Stanford. Although there is no university-wide GRE requirement at Stanford, most of its leading programs, like engineering, business, and sciences, still require a good GRE score. For other schools. The GRE score is voluntary, but providing a good score can improve your application.

No matter, if you are applying to a master's, MBA, or PhD at Stanford, being aware of when and where to report your GRE score for Stanford is crucial. In this article, we will discuss the GRE requirement for Stanford, the suggested score range, and how the GRE contributes to your overall application package.

Overview of GRE Requirements for Stanford University

GRE, or Graduate Record Examination, is a standardised test used by universities globally and hence also by Stanford to assess students for postgraduate and doctoral studies. GRE is aimed at gauging readiness in two general areas: Quantitative Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning. Where both sections amount to 170 marks each.

At Stanford University, the Stanford GRE score is utilised by most programs as part of their holistic review process, particularly for quantitative programs such as Engineering, Data Science, and Economics.

Despite this, not all Stanford programs make it necessary to submit a GRE score. Some departments have opted to make the GRE optional, while a couple have eliminated consideration of the GRE altogether. 

Stanford does not grant waivers to forego the submission of GRE scores where they are necessary; students who are experiencing financial difficulties may request a GRE fee waiver to lower their test expenses.

You should also read: Stanford University Fees for International Students 2025

What is a Good GRE Score for Stanford?

Stanford has a holistic admission process, and the application considers multiple elements, not just GRE scores. Also, because GRE score requirements vary from department to department, it is hard to state a single number as a good GRE score for Stanford. However, based on the data available, a score of 320+ is a good GRE score for Stanford. 

Minimum and Recommended GRE score for Stanford

Although officially, there is no minimum cutoff for Stanford because of the holistic application process of Stanford, taking a look at past data trends, we can have an estimate of a minimum and a good GRE score for Stanford. 

Based on 2026 class data, the minimum GRE score on which applicants were selected was 305, with 152 in the verbal section and 153 in the quantitative section. Although a good recommended GRE score for Stanford would be 327, with 163 in the verbal section and 164 in the quantitative section, as these were the median scores of the applicants who got accepted.

How Important is GRE in Stanford Admissions?

Stanford has a holistic admissions process, which means they look at every part of your application, not just your test scores. They want to see your full academic and personal story. This includes your GPA, Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), work experience, and, when required, your GRE score for Stanford.

A high GRE score is not a guarantee for getting admission, and neither does a low score disqualify you from the admission process. Applying to Stanford using your GRE scores is very easy you can just follow these steps: 

1. Visit the Stanford Graduate Admissions website and start your application process.
2. Go to the "Explore Graduate Programs" section to see all available courses.
3. Choose your specific program from the list of graduate programs.
4. Check the admission requirements to see if the GRE score for Stanford and other documents are needed.
5. Create an account on the Stanford graduate application portal.

You should also read: Cost of Living in USA for Indian Students & Professionals: Can You Manage on a Budget?

Stanford University Admission Requirements

Stanford has a holistic intake process and hence requires multiple elements. These admission requirements help Stanford have a better understanding of the students and helps them assess the students in a more nuanced manner. 

The Stanford University admission requirements are as listed below: 

Requirement	What Is Required
GPA	Strong academic record, usually 3.5+ (varies by program)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	Clear academic goals, research interests, and reason for applying
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)	2–3 letters from professors or employers familiar with your work
GRE Score	Required for some programs; no universal minimum,q but strong scores recommended
English Language Test (TOEFL/IELTS)	TOEFL iBT ≥ 100 or IELTS ≥ 7.0 (varies by program); required for non-native English speakers
Resume / CV	Summarises academic, research, and work achievements

 Weightage of GRE vs GPA, SOP, LORs

Harvard follows a holistic admission process, and all the components of your application are crucial pieces of your profile for Stanford. Although some components are better representatives of a student's merit than others, and hence they have more weightage. 

The weightage of each component of an applicant's application is discussed below: 

Application Component	Importance in Review
GPA & Academic Transcript	Most important. Stanford places the highest emphasis on consistent academic performance and rigorous coursework.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)	Highly important. SOP outlines your research interests, goals, and fit with Stanford.
Letters of Recommendation	Highly important. Provide deep insight into your abilities, character, and potential.
GRE Score for Stanford	Supportive role. GRE is considered alongside other metrics, not a standalone decision-maker.

How to Send GRE Scores to Stanford University?

Once you have your GRE score for Stanford, you need to send it officially through ETS. Stanford does not accept unofficial score reports uploaded by applicants. Sending your scores is a simple online process through your ETS account.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Log in to your ETS account: Use your GRE registration email and password to access your account.
2. Navigate to score reporting: Go to the section where you can send your test scores to universities.
3. Select Stanford University: Enter Stanford’s institutional code 4704 to find the correct school.
4. Choose score options: Select if you want to send your most recent scores, all your scores, or specific ones from the last five years.
5. Confirm and pay: Review your choices, pay the fee if needed, and submit your score request.

Tips to Improve GRE Score for Stanford Admission

Admission to Stanford involves competing against some of the brightest applicants globally. A good GRE score at Stanford can also enhance your profile, particularly for highly competitive courses like Engineering, MBA, and Data Science.

You should also read: Stanford and Harvard University: Where Leaders are Created

Section-wise Prep Tips (Quant, Verbal, AWA)

A competitive GRE score can do wonders for your application and help you gain an edge over other applicants. To improve your GRE score for Stanford admissions need a focused strategy to efficiently and effectively prepare for each section of the GRE. 

Here are targeted strategies for you to strategise and enhance your GRE performance in each section:

• Quantitative Reasoning: Emphasis on speed and accuracy of simple math, algebra, and data interpretation. Get practice through ETS PowerPrep, Manhattan Prep, or Magoosh. Begin with topic-wise exercises, followed by full-length tests.
• Verbal Reasoning: Enhance vocabulary through GRE word lists (Magoosh, Barron's). Enhance reading comprehension through scientific or academic passages. Train yourself in recognising tone and argument structure.
• Analytical Writing (AWA): Practice 1-2 essays a week. Practice with sample prompts from ETS. Pay attention to clear structure: intro, 2-3 body paragraphs, and conclusion. Study high-scoring samples to emulate your writing.

You should also read: Score High on GRE: How to Get Good Score in GRE

Retaking the GRE – When & How?

Students should consider retaking the GRE if their score is lower than the average GRE score for Stanford by 5-7 points. When preparing for the second attempt, students should use their score report to identify their weakest section and focus on that section. 

Stanford will accept the highest valid GRE score from the last 5 years, and students are not penalised for retaking the test.

Conclusion

Securing a strong GRE score for Stanford can significantly strengthen your graduate school application, especially for competitive programs in engineering, sciences, and business. While Stanford’s admissions are holistic and flexible, many top departments still value a high GRE score as part of your overall academic profile.

 By understanding the score expectations, staying updated on waiver policies, and preparing strategically, you can maximize your chances of admission. Start early, aim for excellence, and let your GRE score reflect your potential as a Stanford candidate in 2025–26.