Stanford University vs Yale University

Stanford University is the more selective of the two at 4%, versus 4% at Yale University. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Stanford University
Most selective
4%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1570
Private · California
Yale University
Most selective
4%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1570
Private · Connecticut

Stanford University vs Yale University: the differences that matter

How Stanford University and Yale University stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Stanford University and Yale University are almost equally selective (4% vs 4%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Stanford University leans more on class rank, standardized test scores, while Yale University puts more weight on a similar mix of factors. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Stanford University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1570 and Yale University's is around 1570. Their admitted ranges are nearly identical. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorStanford UniversityYale University
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresvery importantimportant
Application essayvery importantvery important
Recommendationsvery importantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesvery importantvery important
Talent / abilityvery importantvery important
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Stanford University or Yale University harder to get into?

Stanford University is harder to get into, with a 4% acceptance rate versus 4% at Yale University.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Stanford University and Yale University?

Stanford University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1570, and Yale University's is around 1570.

What are my chances at Stanford University and Yale University?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.