Frequently Asked Questions
My mathematics background isn't that strong. Should I still apply?
A strong mathematics background, especially in probability, statistics and linear algebra, is important in the admission process. However, it is not the only factor that determines which applicants are admitted. You may consider strengthening your math background and applying later, or just hope that factors such as breadth or research exprience will compensate for a relatively weak math background.
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Are there any prerequisite courses?
No, there are no specific prerequisite courses to complete before applying. However, see the answer to the above question concerning a strong mathematics background and the kinds of courses one should excel at.
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Do you offer any degrees part-time or online for working individuals?
No. It is not possible to complete a degree online. The department offers a small number of courses online through SCPD (mostly in summer); but the majority of courses must be completed on campus during normal business hours.
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What are the deadlines?
Please refer to the Admissions Calendar.
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Where do I mail my application materials?
The department address is
:
Statistics Admissions
Statistics Department - Sequoia Hall
390 Serra Mall
Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305-4065
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What is the Statistics department code for test score reporting?
Stanford's institution code for the GRE and TOEFL is 4704. No department code is required. You may leave that field blank.
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Will completing the MS increase my chances of admission to the PhD in Statistics at Stanford?
Students with a strong mathematical background who wish to go on to a PhD in Statistics should consider applying directly to the PhD program. Completing the MS in Statistics does not help one's chances of admission to the PhD program.
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Is funding offered to MS students?
There is no financial support available through the Statistics department to support students in the master's program; therefore, students are expected to fund their course of study at Stanford in its entirety. If you who have a grant or fellowship from an outside source, however, you are welcome to apply that toward the tuition cost of the program.
It may be possible to obtain an RA or TAship in another department, but these must be arranged individually by the student and should not be anticipated as a significant source of funding. Positions as graders within the Statistics and Mathematics departments occasionally become available -- they are announced if the need arises during the academic year and again, should not be anticipated as a significant source of funding.
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How many applicants do you accept each year?
We receive approximately 120 PhD applications each year, and we are able to admit 10-12 new students each year. We receive about 280 MS applications each year, and admit approximately 15% of the MS applicants each year.
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What is the minimum GPA/GRE test score required?
We do not have minimums required for application. But of course we expect students to have earned a high GPA and GRE scores. The higher your score, the better your chances of admission.
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What are the average GRE and TOEFL scores of admitted applicants?
Average General GRE scores (in percentiles) of admitted applicants:
Verbal 83%, Quantitative 91%, Analytical Writing 52%
Average Math Subject GRE score (percentile) of admitted applicants (PhD only):
82%
Average TOEFL scores of admitted applicants:
109 Total, Internet-Based
28 Listening
30 Reading
25 Speaking
27 Writing
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Can the GMAT score replace the GRE?
No, it cannot.
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Can I send more than the required number of letters of recommendation? Will this enhance my chances of being offered admission to the PhD or MS programs in Statistics at Stanford?
The department only requires three letters of recommendation. You may include one additional, if you wish (though, we prefer that you only submit three letters). If you submit more than four letters of recommendation, we will only review the first four letters that were submitted.
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Do you have rolling admission?
No. Please refer to the Admissions Calendar for the application deadlines.
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Can I apply for Spring?
No. External students are admitted for the autumn quarter only.
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Can I apply to more than one graduate program at Stanford?
No, you may apply to only one degree program per academic year. An exception is within the Biosciences, in which you may apply to up to three Ph.D. programs within your one application. You may apply concurrently to one departmental program and to a professional school program (law, medicine or business).
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If I am accepted, may I defer admission?
No. We do not allow deferral of admission. Students who are accepted but cannot enroll may reapply for a future year when they are available to begin their studies.
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Are Statistics courses offered in the summer?
Some courses, such as the core statistics classes Stats 116, Stats 191 and Stats 217 are offered in the summer.
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Where can I find information about graduate housing at Stanford?
Please visit Student Housing for information about campus housing at Stanford, including information on eligibitliy, application process, and deadlines.
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Where can I find information about the estimated cost of living at Stanford?
Please visit Student Budget for information about estimated cost of living on-campus as a graduate student (this is only an estimate; your actual expenses may be different).
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