Stanford University

2026-27 · Common App

Auto-compiled from official sources, August 2026 — confirm on the application.

Restrictive Early Action November 1, 2026Regular Decision January 5, 2027

Main personal statement required (250-650 words), plus:

short take50 words (hard cap)required
What is the most significant challenge that society faces today?
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activity elaboration50 words (hard cap)required
How did you spend your last two summers?
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creative quirky50 words (hard cap)required
What historical moment or event do you wish you could have witnessed?
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activity elaboration50 words (hard cap)required
Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a job you hold, or responsibilities you have for your family.
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roommate personal50 words (hard cap)required
List five things that are important to you.
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intellectual curiosity100-250 words (hard cap)required
The Stanford community is deeply curious and driven to learn in and out of the classroom. Reflect on an idea or experience that makes you genuinely excited about learning.
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roommate personal100-250 words (hard cap)required
Virtually all of Stanford’s undergraduates live on campus. Write a note to your future roommate that reveals something about you or that will help your roommate—and us—get to know you better.
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community identity100-250 words (hard cap)required
Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests, and character would help you make a distinctive contribution as an undergraduate to Stanford University.
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REA Nov 1. 5 short answers + 3 short essays.