Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
# #3
QS Subject Rankings
48 months
Program duration
Yes
Scholarships
Program Overview
Main Subject
International Relation
Degree
BA
Study Level
Undergraduate
Study Mode
On Campus
The undergraduate program in International Relations is an interdisciplinary undergraduate major allowing students to explore how global, regional and domestic factors influence relations between actors on the world stage. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze choices and challenges that arise in this arena. IR majors pursue study in world politics, including courses in political science, economics, history, and language, focusing on issues such as international security, political economy, economic development, and democratization. Students must spend at least one quarter overseas. The major prepares students for careers in government and the corporate sector, and for admission into graduate programs in law, business, economics, and political science.
Eligibility Requirements
High School GPA (U.S. equivalent):
Most admitted students have GPAs of 3.9 to 4.0 (unweighted) on a 4.0 scale, which means top grades in the most rigorous courses available (like AP, IB, or honors).
International Students:
Should be top performers in their national curriculum—typically in the top 5% or higher of their class.
Standardized test requirements
No minimum SAT/ACT is required (test-optional for Fall 2025), but competitive scores often fall within:
SAT: 1470–1570
ACT: 33–35
English Language Proficiency
TOEFL iBT 100
IELTS Academic 7.0
Duolingo English Test 125 (unofficial but often accepted)
PTE Academic 68
Tuition fees
Domestic Students
Tuition Fee/year $65,127 | Other Expenses |
International Students
Tuition Fee/year $65,127 | Other Expenses
|
Application Deadline
Restrictive Early Action:
Domestic Deadline | International Deadline |
|---|---|
 | November 1, 2024 |
Regular Decision :
Domestic Deadline | International Deadline |
|---|---|
| January 5, 2025 |
Curriculum
Introduction to International Relations: Study of the basic principles and theories of international relations.
Introductory Economics: Courses like ECON 1: Principles of Economics.
Foreign Language: Begin or continue language studies to meet proficiency requirements.
Electives: Choose courses that align with personal interests and potential specializations.
program benefits
The BA in International Relations at Stanford University offers a world-class interdisciplinary education that equips students with deep insights into global politics, economics, history, and diplomacy. Students benefit from access to leading faculty, cutting-edge research, and real-world experience through study abroad programs and policy practicums. The program develops critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills vital for careers in international law, government, NGOs, business, and global institutions. With Stanford’s strong global network and proximity to Silicon Valley and major policy hubs, graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles and graduate studies in international affairs and related fields.
Career possibilities
A BA in International Relations from Stanford opens diverse career paths in diplomacy, international law, global business, journalism, policy analysis, and development work. Graduates often work for government agencies (e.g., U.S. State Department), international organizations (e.g., United Nations, World Bank), NGOs, think tanks, or multinational corporations. Many pursue advanced degrees in public policy, law, or international studies. With skills in cross-cultural communication, research, and global analysis, alumni thrive in roles such as foreign service officers, policy advisors, intelligence analysts, human rights advocates, or global consultants, contributing to solving complex international challenges.
Research Opportunities
The BA in International Relations at Stanford offers rich research opportunities through faculty-led projects, honors theses, independent studies, and research assistantships. Students can collaborate with leading scholars at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, Center for International Security and Cooperation, and other interdisciplinary centers. The program encourages students to explore global issues such as conflict resolution, human rights, international development, and environmental policy. Study abroad programs often include research components, and students can also apply for summer research grants. These experiences prepare students for graduate school or careers requiring strong analytical, writing, and policy evaluation skills
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