Is Stanford University, USA a better option than IIM Bangalore, India for doing MBA?

The overall fee at Stanford comprises tuition costs and living expenses, which may vary based on the students' lifestyles. The tuition at Stanford University is around INR 58 L for undergraduate programs, and ranges between INR 25 L and INR 1.23 Cr for postgraduate programs. Along with the tuition cost, students must make a budget for additional expenses such as accommodation, transportation, insurance, books and supplies, food, and miscellaneous and personal expenses. Students can check the table below for tuition costs of popular programs:

The living costs to pursue any master's or undergraduate programs at Stanford depend on various factors, including the type of course, living standards, housing choice, and personal expenses. The estimated cost of living for Indians can range between INR 20L and INR 30L, excluding tuition costs. This cost may cover expenses like health insurance, transportation, meals, housing, and personal expenditure. International students are advised to make a proper budget before enrolling in any programme at Stanford.

According to the successful applicants, there are certain things that they did differently and got a chance. Some of the crucial factors that must be considered by students to improve their chances are listed below:

• Aim for excellent grades and top marks in test scores
• Indulge in impactful research opportunities, projects, and internships
• Showcase leadership qualities in clubs, sports, and community service
• Provide a compelling essay and show authenticity, vision, and curiosity.
• Ask for a letter of recommendation from the teachers or mentors who know you well.

Stanford University offers a range of programs that provide a high return on investment for international students. Some of the popular programs with high ROI are Computer Science, Data Science, and MBA. The reason for their high ROI is its thriving tech and business ecosystem in Silicon Valley, and the graduates secure roles in companies such as Google, Apple, Meta, or other ventures. The salaries of these graduates range between INR 1 Cr to INR 1.3Cr, which offsets tuition and living costs. Students can also opt for courses like Engineering and Bioengineering.

Stanford University attracts students worldwide for its programs, including Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Business, Bioengineering, Electrical Engineering, and more. These programs usually belong to the School of Engineering and the Graduate School of Business. The reason for the program's popularity is Silicon Valley resources, excellent faculty, and cutting-edge labs. International students usually opt for specializations such as Machine Learning, Sustainable Energy, Product Design, and Sustainable Energy. Students can also combine courses across departments.