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Stanford Graduate School of Business

  • July 2, 2025
Admitix Editorial Team
Stanford Graduate School of Business - Admitix

The Stanford Graduate School of Business is truly a launchpad for innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial success. Ranked #1 in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025, it’s one of the most competitive and prestigious MBA programs in the world.

For Indian students aiming for transformative leadership roles, especially in tech, VC, startups, and global consulting, Stanford is a top-tier choice.

Here’s what you need to know more:

Why Indian Students Aspire to Stanford Graduate School of Business

FeatureWhy It Matters
#1 QS Global MBA (2025)Global prestige, strong alumni network
Silicon Valley LocationUnmatched access to startups, tech giants, VC firms
Strong Entrepreneurship Focus60%+ of grads pursue startups or early-stage firms
Elite Faculty & ResearchNobel laureates, industry pioneers, thought leaders
Diverse Cohort~40% international students; strong South Asian presence
High ROIAverage post-MBA salary over $200,000/year

Program Highlights at Stanford Graduate School of Business

  • Degree: MBA (2 years, full-time)
  • Special Tracks: Entrepreneurship, Global Management, Social Innovation
  • Dual Degrees: MBA + MS (CS), MBA + JD, MBA + Education (MA)
  • Average Work Experience: 4.8 years
  • Average Age: 28
  • Class Size: ~420
  • Indian Representation: 6–9% of each cohort

Cost of MBA at Stanford (2025 Entry)

ExpenseEstimated Cost (USD/year)
Tuition$82,500
Living Expenses$40,000
Books, Health & Fees$5,000
Total (Approx.)$127,500/year (~₹1.06 crore/year)
Total 2-year cost: ₹2.1 – ₹2.3 crore

Scholarships & Financial Aid

  • Need-Based Aid (offered directly by GSB)
  • Stanford Reliance Dhirubhai Fellowship
    • Covers up to 80% of tuition for 5 Indian students annually
    • Must return to India for 2 years post-MBA
  • Inlaks, JN Tata Endowment, Narotam Sekhsaria Scholarships (external)

Admission Requirements (Indian Applicants – 2025 Cycle)

ComponentDetails
GMAT/GREMandatory; GMAT average ~738
GPATop-tier academic record expected
Work ExperienceMinimum 2 years recommended
EssaysHighly introspective, values-driven essays
LORs2 professional references
InterviewBy invite only (blind interview)
English ProficiencyTOEFL/IELTS required unless UG in English medium

Application Rounds: Typically in September, January, and April
Round 1 is strongly recommended for international applicants.

Career Outcomes & ROI

MetricData
Average Base Salary$175,000
Average Total Compensation$215,000+
Top IndustriesVC, Consulting, Tech, Entrepreneurship
Top RecruitersGoogle, McKinsey, Bain, Sequoia, Goldman Sachs

Why Stanford Graduate School of Business Is Ideal for Indian Students

  • Silicon Valley proximity = ideal for tech & startup careers
  • Prestige and ROI justify high cost for top-tier candidates
  • Global mobility with a Stanford MBA — doors open anywhere
  • Unique blend of analytical rigor + emotional intelligence focus
  • Strong Indian alumni network and targeted fellowship support

You Might Also Like: Harvard or Wharton MBA: Which is Better for You?

Need Personalized Help?

At Admitix, we guide high-potential Indian candidates to global elite MBAs through:

  • Profile positioning for Stanford and other M7 schools
  • Essay strategy grounded in authentic storytelling
  • LOR and SOP support that strengthens your brand
  • Scholarship and fellowship guidance
  • Mock interviews aligned with Stanford’s blind style

FAQs – Stanford Graduate School of Business (United States)

Q. What GMAT score do I need for Stanford?
Aim for 730+ to be competitive. The average is 738, but holistic factors matter.

Q. How hard is it to get into Stanford GSB?
It’s one of the most selective MBA programs globally (~6% acceptance). Strong leadership, self-awareness, and unique impact are key.

Q. What is the Reliance Stanford Fellowship?
A full-tuition fellowship for 5 exceptional Indian students annually. Requires a 2-year commitment to work in India post-MBA.

Q. Can I apply to Stanford GSB without work experience?
Yes, but average experience is 4.8 years. Strong internships or leadership may compensate, especially for deferred programs.

Q. What types of careers do Stanford MBAs pursue?
Tech leadership, startups, consulting, VC, impact investing, and public service — Stanford supports unconventional and purpose-driven paths.