Welcome to the Parents and Family Page

Stanford’s approach to its relationship with its undergraduates is based on a philosophy that recognizes their status as young adults--even those few who have not yet reached the majority age of 18.  Stanford respects the role of parents, even if its primary relationship is with its students. Stanford parents are our partners: parents interact with students, and Stanford interacts with students. The student is at the center--and the focus--of this important partnership.

Excerpted from “A Guide for Parents 2011-12”

For Parents of New Undergraduate Students.

• 2012 Approaching Stanford: A Handbook for Entering Students (PDF). This publication is included in the first Approaching Stanford mailing sent to incoming freshmen in mid-May (and to incoming transfers students in mid-June).
• New Student Orientation Information for Parents.  Go here to view detailed information about parent events during New Student Orientation (NSO).  This page includes information about getting to, getting around, and parking on campus.
•  New Student Orientation Parent Events Calendar 2012 (PDF) This lists the parent events that will occur on Tuesday, September 18 during the 201 New Student Orientation.  (Parents will receive printed copies of the calendar when their student checks into their residence.)

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Guides and Publications for Parents

• The Stanford Parents' Gateway This webpage features online publications, information about events, and parent links.  You can also click here to purchase your tickets to the Parent Dinner with the Provost during NSO.
• Parents' Newsletter This links to the Stanford Parents’ Newsletter.
• Career Development Center Register on the Career Development Center’s website to receive a semi-annual Parent Newsletter via email.

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Events and Organizations

• Parents' Weekend Held in February, Parents Weekend showcases a variety of activities designed to give parents a taste of the Stanford undergraduate experience. Parents' Weekend 2013 is scheduled for February 22-23, 2013.
• Parent Events in your Area This website details Stanford-related events for parents around the country.
• Parents’ Club The Parents’ Club was founded to support Stanford and its students and to involve parents in the life of the university. It offers many activities and services, including the Distinguished Faculty Speakers series and the popular birthday cake, balloon, flower, and plant delivery services for special occasions.

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Stanford Administrative Offices and Services

• Financial Aid The Financial Aid Office provides information on financial matters for students, their families, and alumni.
• Cardinal Care Insurance This page provides information to parents on the Cardinal Care Insurance program for Stanford students.
• Stanford ePay Learn how to pay your university bills online. Your student can add you as an authorized payer and give you access to the ePay system.
• Student Services Center This office can assist with with questions on a range of topics, include the university bill, financial aid disbursements, enrollment, Stanford degree policies and procedures, Stanford ID Cards, and more.
• Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education The Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education (VPUE) focuses on the academic lives of students. (650) 725-8815.
• Vice Provost for Student Affairs (VPSA) The Office of the Vice Provost for Student Affairs (VPSA) focuses on the social and personal lives of students.

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Keeping in touch with the Stanford community

• Stanford Report The Stanford Report provides up-to-date news about the Stanford community.
• Stanford Daily The online version of the daily newsletter is written and edited by Stanford students, providing an undergraduate perspective on news, events, and issues
• Stanford Magazine The University's magazine is sent to parents while their son or daughter is an undergraduate.

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