Lehigh vs Stanford

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic focuses of Lehigh University and Stanford University?

  Lehigh University excels in engineering, business, and arts & sciences, offering a strong practical and career-oriented education. Stanford University, while also strong in these areas, is renowned for its cutting-edge research, particularly in technology, medicine, and law, with a greater emphasis on theoretical and innovative exploration.

• How do the campus environments and locations differ between Lehigh and Stanford?

  Lehigh University is situated in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, offering a traditional college town experience with a close-knit community. Stanford University is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, California, providing a more suburban setting with access to a vibrant tech industry and a larger, more diverse environment.

• What is the typical class size and student-to-faculty ratio at each university?

  Lehigh University generally has smaller class sizes and a lower student-to-faculty ratio (around 9:1), fostering more personalized attention from professors. Stanford University, while also maintaining a respectable student-to-faculty ratio (around 5:1), may have larger introductory lecture classes, especially in popular fields.

• How do the undergraduate admissions processes compare between Lehigh and Stanford?

  Both universities have highly selective admissions processes. However, Stanford University is significantly more competitive due to its global reputation and larger applicant pool. Both institutions consider academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation, but Stanford places even greater emphasis on exceptional achievements and demonstrated leadership potential.

• What are the differences in tuition costs and financial aid opportunities?

  Both Lehigh and Stanford have high tuition costs. However, Stanford University has a larger endowment and offers more generous financial aid packages, particularly for low- and middle-income families. Lehigh also provides financial aid and merit-based scholarships, but the overall availability may be more limited compared to Stanford.

• What types of extracurricular activities and student organizations are available at each university?

  Both Lehigh and Stanford offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, Greek life, and volunteer opportunities. Stanford, given its larger size and location, boasts a more extensive and diverse selection of organizations, particularly those related to technology, entrepreneurship, and global affairs. Lehigh offers a strong sense of community through its clubs and organizations, with a focus on student leadership and involvement.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities differ between Lehigh and Stanford?

  Both universities provide comprehensive career services, including career counseling, resume workshops, and job fairs. Stanford University benefits from its proximity to Silicon Valley, offering unparalleled internship and job opportunities in the tech industry. Lehigh University has strong connections with companies in the Northeast, particularly in engineering and business, providing excellent career prospects in those fields.

• What is the overall academic rigor and workload at Lehigh and Stanford?

  Both Lehigh and Stanford are academically rigorous institutions. Stanford University is known for its intense academic environment and high expectations, attracting highly motivated and ambitious students. Lehigh University also demands a significant workload, but the atmosphere may be perceived as slightly less competitive, with a greater emphasis on collaboration and practical application.

• How do the graduate programs and research opportunities compare?

  Stanford University is a leading research institution with a vast array of graduate programs and research opportunities across various disciplines. Lehigh University also offers graduate programs and research opportunities, particularly in engineering and applied sciences, but the scale and scope are generally smaller compared to Stanford.

• What are the key differences in the alumni networks of Lehigh and Stanford?

  Both Lehigh and Stanford have strong and supportive alumni networks. Stanford University's alumni network is globally recognized and influential, particularly in the tech industry and venture capital. Lehigh University's alumni network is strong in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, with a strong presence in engineering, business, and finance.

• How does campus culture differ between Lehigh and Stanford?

  Lehigh has a strong sense of community and tradition, with a vibrant Greek life and a focus on undergraduate experience. Stanford has a more diverse and entrepreneurial culture, driven by its location in Silicon Valley and its emphasis on innovation and global impact. The social scene at Stanford is also influenced by its proximity to San Francisco and other major cities.

• What are some notable strengths of Lehigh University that might make it a better choice than Stanford for some students?

  Lehigh's smaller size fosters a close-knit community and allows for more personalized attention from professors. Its strong engineering and business programs, combined with its location in the Northeast, make it an excellent choice for students seeking a career-focused education with strong regional connections. The lower cost of living in Bethlehem, PA, compared to Silicon Valley, can also be a significant factor.

• What are some notable strengths of Stanford University that might make it a better choice than Lehigh for some students?

  Stanford's unparalleled access to Silicon Valley and its world-renowned faculty make it an ideal choice for students seeking to be at the forefront of technological innovation and entrepreneurship. Its diverse student body and global network provide a unique learning environment and unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth. The generous financial aid packages offered by Stanford can also make it an affordable option for many students.