Welcome to the start of your graduate studies at Stanford! You are joining a vibrant and diverse graduate community of over 9,400 graduate students across seven distinguished schools. We are excited that you have chosen Stanford for the next chapter of your academic and professional journey.

Stanford offers extensive resources for your intellectual and personal development, as well as countless collaborative opportunities with fellow students and faculty. We encourage you to explore new opportunities and share your interests, passions, and experience with our Stanford community as you deepen your expertise, nurture your creativity, and prepare for your future. 

In close collaboration with your school and degree program, the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate of Education and the Office of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs are dedicated to your success and well-being during your studies. 

• The Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education (VPGE) encompasses graduate policy, academic advising, fellowships and funding, teaching support, professional development, and initiatives that support diversity, inclusion, and interdisciplinary learning. 

• The Office of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs (VPSA) includes medical and mental health services, seven campus community centers, career education, student organizations, immigration/visa services, disability accommodations, registrar, and Graduate Life Office.

Here are some actions to take and information to review before you arrive on campus:

• Bechtel International Center: Learn more about Bechtel If you have visa-related or immigration-related questions.

• Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL): Whether serving as a Teaching Assistant, Course Assistant, Instructor, or in another teaching role, CTL offers services to help you reflect on and refine your practice, according to research-based and inclusive methods.

• Gateway for New Graduate Students: Check out the Gateway for New Graduate Students and learn about the many resources available to you throughout your academic journey.

• Graduate Housing: If you will be living in Residential & Dining Enterprises (RD&E) housing, review move-in information and submit housing questions with a ServiceNow ticket.

• IDEAL Initiative: Dive into Stanford’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access in a Learning Community (IDEAL) initiative. Be sure to read the Provost's Statement on Diversity and Inclusion.

• Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program: First-year PhD students may apply to Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) until October 11 to join the 2024 cohort. Review KHS admission and upcoming KHS admission events for more information.

• New Graduate Student Orientation: Check out New Graduate Student Orientation, which runs from Sept. 17 - 23 and is open to all new students.

• Stay Updated on Information From Your Degree Program: Read the messages you receive from your degree program, which include important information about program-specific orientations, class start dates, and orientation and advising expectations.

• Update Your Pronouns: Indicate your pronouns to support Stanford’s inclusive community. Pronouns appear on class rosters and on Canvas.

• Stanford Graduate Summer Institute: We encourage you to participate in the Stanford Graduate Summer Institute (SGSI), a week-long collection of accelerated courses held before Autumn Quarter. It's free and is a great way to connect with students across departments and schools while engaging in complex, interdisciplinary topics. Registration is open now!

• Title IX Training: Complete Stanford’s Title IX training, which addresses harassment and discrimination prevention and provides tools for responding to and reporting such behavior.

• Well-Being Resources: Explore the many mental health and well-being resources available to you, including peer counselors, well-being coaches, and the confidential support team.

During your time at Stanford you will find many who are eager to offer guidance and support. Our university community, including our dedicated staff, is committed to supporting your well-being and success.

We are thrilled to welcome you to graduate and professional studies at Stanford and look forward to meeting you soon! 

With best wishes,

Stacey F. Bent
Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs
Jagdeep and Roshni Singh Professor in the School of Engineering
Professor of Energy Science and Engineering

Susie Brubaker-Cole
Vice Provost for Student Affairs