Student Life

Generations of Diverse Perspectives

Stanford’s founders believed in the strength of a diverse student body. The university opened in 1891 as co-educational and nonsectarian – forward thinking at the time. Stanford’s commitment to inclusion continues today and its campus community reflects racial, ethnic and gender diversity, as well as a wide range of physical abilities, religions and socioeconomic backgrounds. Resources to support student life – residential living, health resources, international student, community and public service centers – are centrally located here. White Plaza and its memorial fountain, “The Claw,” were built in 1964. White Plaza has long been a place for students to express their viewpoints through protests and to gather for rallies, job fairs and student club events. Tresidder Memorial Union, nearby, offers eateries, gathering space and services.

Building Community

During the university’s formative years, students resourcefully banded together to play competitive sports, start drama troupes or conduct debates. Today students have formed more than 650 campus organizations, finding common ground in academic, social and cultural activities. The hub of these student-led communities, including the governing body, is located here at Old Union, originally built in the 1920s.

Studying Abroad

To help students gain a broader perspective, Stanford launched its first overseas campus program in Germany in 1958. Today, Stanford’s Bing Overseas Studies Program lets students immerse themselves at one of 11 Stanford-run campuses and two consortiums around the world. Nearly 50 percent of every graduating class participates.

Education Within Reach

Stanford has made investing in financial aid a high priority in order to place a world-class education within reach of students from a wide range of backgrounds and nationalities. In 2016, Stanford’s 125th year, more than 75 percent of undergraduates graduated without any student debt. In 2018, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program will begin providing graduate-level scholarships to students from around the world.

Kiosk 17 location highlighting White Plaza, Bing Overseas Study Program and Stanford Financial Aid and Scholarships.