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US holisticUnited States · Master’sResearched 0d ago

Computer Science

Stanford University
PortPath researches criteria from public sources and can be incomplete or out of date. Always verify against the program’s official announcement before relying on it. PortPath never predicts admission chances.
Overview
Stanford's MS in Computer Science uses a US graduate holistic review. The official checklist emphasizes the statement of purpose, transcripts/academic record, and English proficiency tests when needed; there is no stated portfolio requirement and GRE is not required.

Admission criteria

PortfolioLow

No portfolio or work-sample requirement is listed for the CS MS application.

Bar to clear: Not used by this program

Statement of PurposeHigh

Stanford asks for a concise, focused essay on your reasons for applying, preparation for the field, research interests, future plans, and anything that helps the committee judge aptitude and motivation.

Bar to clear: No more than 2 pages, single-spaced

Academics & GPAHigh

The program requires a strong academic record, including an earned or expected bachelor's degree, transcripts for all postsecondary study, and evidence of strong quantitative and analytical preparation.

Bar to clear: U.S. bachelor's degree or equivalent; no published GPA cutoff

Test scoresLow

GRE is not required for MS applicants; TOEFL/IELTS is required only for applicants who do not qualify for an English-proficiency waiver, with Stanford minimums for admission consideration.

Bar to clear: TOEFL iBT 90+ or IELTS 7.0+ if required; GRE not required

Application components

Statement of purposeUnofficial transcripts / GPA recordTOEFL/IELTS score report (if required)
How to stand out
Use the SOP to show a specific fit between your background and Stanford CS.
Present a transcript with strong grades in core CS, math, and quantitative coursework.
If English testing is required, aim above Stanford's minimum rather than just meeting it.
Since there is no portfolio requirement, lean on clear evidence of technical depth in your transcript and SOP.

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