College Comparison
Massachusetts Institute of Technology vs Stanford University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Cambridge, MA
Stanford, CA
Total Enrollment
11,886
18,625
Undergrad Enrollment
4,535
7,904
Student-Faculty Ratio
3:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
4.5%
3.6%
Average GPA
4.00
3.96
SAT Range
1520–1580
1510–1580
ACT Range
34–36
34–35
Test Policy
Required
Optional
Application Fee
$75
$90
Total Applicants
28,232
57,326
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,870
$79,018
Avg Net Price
$20,000
$26,000
Tuition (In-State)
$57,590
$57,693
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$57,590
$57,693
Room & Board
$20,280
$21,325
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
61.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,734
$62,755
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
97.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
78.0%
Retention Rate
99.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$143,372
$124,080
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Explore by Location
MIT is in Cambridge, MA
Stanford is in Stanford, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at MIT is $20,000 per year, compared to $26,000 at Stanford University. MIT is $6,000 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at MIT typically score between 1520-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Stanford University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
MIT has a graduation rate of 97%, while Stanford University has a graduation rate of 96%. MIT has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
MIT has a student-to-faculty ratio of 3:1, while Stanford University has a ratio of 6:1. MIT offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At MIT, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,734. At Stanford University, 61% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,755.
The median earnings for MIT graduates 10 years after enrollment is $143,372, compared to $124,080 for Stanford University graduates. Graduates from MIT tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
MIT is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting. Stanford University is located in Stanford, CA in a suburb: large setting.

