Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
What supplies should a student bring?
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What supplies should a student bring?
Each student should have a notebook with graph paper that is dedicated to Stanford Math Circle, a small pencil case with a few pencils, markers or colored pencils, an eraser, a glue stick, and scissors with rounded edges. Students will not need to purchase textbooks for the program.
Is there homework?
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Is there homework?
Yes. Math circle homework is an essential part of the class. It is important that parents and guardians spend some time with their children discussing what was done in class and spending time working on (not necessarily solving) the homework problems.
Does Stanford Math Circle help with mathematics contest preparations?
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Does Stanford Math Circle help with mathematics contest preparations?
We will do some practice sessions for middle school and high school mathematics contests (such at the AMC contests, BAMO, ARML, etc.), but that is not our primary emphasis.
My child is in kindergarten, but advanced mathematically. Can they participate in Stanford Math Circle?
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My child is in kindergarten, but advanced mathematically. Can they participate in Stanford Math Circle?
We do restrict participation the elementary math circle to students in first grade and above. This is because of social readiness, not mathematical ability! We do recognize that there are many kindergarten students who are capable of exceptional mathematical reasoning. Similarly, we do not permit students in grades 1–2 to participate in the 3–4 grade circles.
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.
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies 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.