Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find answers to many frequently-asked questions about Stanford University and the Stanford web. If you cannot find the information you are seeking, there is a link at the bottom of this page to contact us with your question.

Where can I learn about admission criteria and procedures?

For undergraduates: The Office of Undergraduate Admission provides admission information and materials as well as an online application.  For additional questions, please e-mail admission@stanford.edu.

For graduates:The Graduate Admission website contains information about graduate study at Stanford University and the admissions process.

How do I locate specific websites at Stanford?

The website you want may be listed in the A-Z Index of Websites or through the university's search engine. If the website is academic-related, you also can contact the school or department that may be familiar with the website's subject matter.

Where can I find contact information for students, faculty and staff?

StanfordWho is Stanford's official online directory. Also available is a listing of other useful campus directories.

What is Stanford's primary address?

450 Serra Mall
Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305

Please note that departments and buildings on campus each have unique mailing addresses, so please consult individual websites or University directories for this information.

How can I find a job at Stanford?

Jobs.stanford.edu lists open staff positions and benefits information. Open faculty positions are listed by school.

How can I get medical advice from Stanford doctors?

The Stanford Referral Center can provide information on how to access physicians and services at Stanford Hospital & Clinics and the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. The School of Medicine's website also may have useful information.

Why are Stanford's athletic teams named the Cardinal and does Stanford have a mascot?

Cardinal has been the color of Stanford athletic teams since 1892. In 1930, Stanford officially adopted the Indian symbol and nickname for its teams. In 1972, the Indian mascot was dropped at the request of American Indian students, and the color cardinal was adopted as the name of Stanford athletic teams.

The Tree, the beloved mascot of the Stanford Band, can be found wandering the sidelines at basketball and football games. This mascot references the university's seal, which incorporates a tree. More about the Tree and the nickname Cardinal

I heard a story about how Stanford was founded that mentioned Harvard. Is it true?

No, the story is not true. Our website's history section provides more information about the university's founding and rich history.

Are there any academic-oriented summer programs for high school and college students?

Stanford's Summer Session offers programs both for high school and college students. The Education Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY) offers both residential and online programs for middle-school and high-school students.

Does Stanford offer any other summer programs or camps?

Numerous conferences and camps are held at Stanford during Summer Quarter -- some which are sponsored by the University and others which just take place on campus.

Here's a list of some frequently requested programs: Summer Session, Education Program for Gifted Youth, English for Foreign Students, Stanford Conferences Services, Athletics camps, educational programs for youth

What online/distance education courses does Stanford offer?

The Stanford Center for Professional Development offers distance education classes in a range of subjects, from accounting and career development to bioengineering and computer science. The Education Program for Gifted Youth offers on-line courses for students 5 to 18 in a variety of subjects.

What other continuing studies opportunities are available?

Stanford offers various opportunities for lifelong learning. Continuing Studies schedules a broad range of courses, seminars and workshops for people in the Bay Area. The Graduate School of Business and the Law School also offer executive education programs. And the local community can participate in programs for area children and teachers. Complete listing

Who do I contact about computer security, copyright infringement or network abuse?

The Computer Security Office handles problems of computer or network misuse or abuse involving Stanford University. Consult our copyright complaints page for information about how to report copyright infringements.

Where should I go for other technical assistance?

HelpSU provides technical support to the campus community.

Who can I contact if I have a question or comment about this website?

Contact the University Communications' web team who maintains this website.