Program Information
The Stanford Humanities Circle is suspended for the 2020-2021 academic year. We encourage you to explore our other academic enrichment programs.
Questions?
Frequently Asked Question
What is an enrichment "Circle"?
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What is an enrichment "Circle"?
Circles are weekly gatherings that follow a model of education that emphasizes interactive education and deep engagement. Our enrichment circles are evening after-school programs intended for students who are passionate in a given subject and want to learn more beyond what is available in their schools. Through lectures, activities, and hands-on engagement, circles encourage students to develop creative and critical problem solving skills.
I do not live in the Stanford area. Am I able to participate?
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I do not live in the Stanford area. Am I able to participate?
Yes! Students from any geographic location are welcome to enroll in the online Circles program. Students are expected to attend all live online classes, and should only register for sections that are appropriate for their schedule and time zone. Please note that all class times are in Pacific Time.
Can I fill out the whole application for my child?
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Can I fill out the whole application for my child?
No, students must at least fill out the section of the application asking for their written response, or else their application will be rejected. Parents may, of course, help fill out the rest of the application, but the written response must come from the student.
How can I be notified about the registration opening?
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How can I be notified about the registration opening?
We will post the link to our online registration as it becomes available. When the registration period is closed, please sign up for our mailing list to be notified when the application will be available for next quarter.
I was not accepted this quarter. Will you reevaluate your decision?
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I was not accepted this quarter. Will you reevaluate your decision?
Given the heavy demand for the limited available space, students are admitted via a lottery, and applications will only be available for a short period of time. If a student is not admitted in a particular quarter, we will not be able to reevaluate our admission decisions.
Tuition Questions
What is the tuition used for?
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What is the tuition used for?
The tuition fee covers expenses for session leaders, website maintenance, administrative costs, and use of the Stanford University facilities.
Program Questions
How much earlier can I arrive to campus each week?
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How much earlier can I arrive to campus each week?
Remember that we are visitors on a college campus and that University staff, faculty, and students may be working or attending classes nearby. We must try to minimize noise and obstructions inside University buildings, so we ask that students and families not wait in the hallways outside a classroom more than 5 minutes before class.
What should I bring?
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What should I bring?
Each student should bring a notebook and a writing utensil for notes. Special supplies for any class activitites will be supplied by your instructor.
Is there homework for Stanford Humanities Circle?
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Is there homework for Stanford Humanities Circle?
Homework is either not assigned, or consists of very small assignments, so participation conflicts as little as possible with other school commitments. A small amount of pre-reading may also be assigned.
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies General Questions
Will attending a Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies program improve the chances of getting into Stanford?
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Will attending a Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies program improve the chances of getting into Stanford?
Many colleges and universities are familiar with the rigor and academic level of Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies programs. However, the fact that a student has participated in a given program, activity, or work is not in and of itself the value-add to their college application. What is most valuable is how students learn, grow, and develop their talents and curiosity because of these experiences.
Stanford University’s undergraduate admissions process is separate and independent from Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies programs. As with any extracurricular activity, participation in this program can help students present themselves as strong candidates, but does not guarantee admission into Stanford University.