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Yale University and Stanford University are both private nonprofit institutions — Yale University in New Haven, CT and Stanford University in Stanford, CA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
New Haven, CT · Private
Acceptance rate: 3.9%
Undergrad enrollment: 6,758
Tuition: $67,250/year
Student-faculty ratio: 5.0:1
Graduation rate: 95.7%
Top programs: Social sciences, Biological sciences, Computer science
Best for: Students who want a private campus in New Haven, CT with published program strength in Social sciences and Biological sciences.
Stanford, CA · Private
Acceptance rate: 3.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 7,554
Tuition: $65,910/year
Student-faculty ratio: 6.0:1
Graduation rate: 91.9%
Top programs: Computer science, Social sciences, Engineering
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Stanford, CA with published program strength in Computer science and Social sciences.
| Factor | Yale University | Stanford University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 3.9% | 3.6% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1470–1570 |
| 1510–1580 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 33–35 | 34–35 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 6,758 | 7,554 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $67,250/year | $65,910/year |
| Average net price after aid | $23,777 | $13,807 |
| Graduation rate | 95.7% | 91.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $100,533 | $124,080 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 5.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | New Haven, CT | Stanford, CA |
| Largest program areas | Social sciences, Biological sciences, Computer science | Computer science, Social sciences, Engineering |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (3.9% vs 3.6%). Stanford University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($13,807 vs $23,777). Yale University reports the higher graduation rate (95.7% vs 91.9%). Stanford University is the larger undergraduate campus (7,554 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Yale University and Stanford University
Yale University has an acceptance rate of 3.9%; Stanford University is around 3.6%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Yale University tuition is $67,250/year. Stanford University is $65,910/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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