A year at Stanford will be an unforgettable experience for your spouse or partner and your children.
At the outset, moving your family to California for one year may seem daunting. We understand that there are many considerations for such a decision. The great news is that Stanford GSB and the greater community are renowned for resources that support partners and families. We look holistically at their experience and provide opportunities that can make their year equally life-changing.
Your partner will have an equally enriching year, with access to intellectual endeavors, health and well-being activities, and a vibrant community to support them. Learn more about family life at the GSB.
Intellectual Endeavors
When it comes to education, your partner has many options:
- They are eligible for Stanford Continuing Studies courses, which feature faculty from all seven Stanford schools, including Stanford GSB
- Locally, there are the Palo Alto Adult School, Palo Alto Art Center, Cañada Community College, and Foothill Community College
- Bechtel International Center seminars are also popular
Additionally, our Career Management Center offers a career coaching appointment in the summer quarter for the partners of MSx students.
Your partner may be drawn into the spirit of endless possibilities that we see here at Stanford GSB. Many spouses and significant others have found themselves starting their own business ventures during their year on campus.
Tip: Work for International Spouses
Due to visa limitations, if you are an international spouse and come to Stanford, you will not be eligible to work domestically or internationally, nor take classes for degree credit. You can take continuing studies courses for enrichment.
Health and Well-Being; Arts and Culture
During your year at Stanford, your partner and you may choose to explore any number of activities that span from health and well-being to arts and cultural enrichment.
There are a multitude of options for healthy activities including group fitness classes, yoga and meditation, or rock-climbing.
If you are a sports fan, Stanford is home to world-class athletic teams from American football and championship soccer to swimming and gymnastics. With your student and family’s courtesy cards, you all will have access to cheer on the Cardinal!
For those interested in the arts, there are frequent cultural events across campus, with guest performers from around the world.
Community
With a diverse set of partners and families, your spouse will be exposed to global perspectives in a supportive and inclusive community — no matter where you are from.
If you are a parent, you will find a supportive community that steps up while you and your partner study; helps watch the kids while you attend a class; organizes on- or off-campus outings; or facilitates school drop-off and pick-up. You and your spouse can breathe easy knowing your kids are in a safe, international, and one-of-a-kind living and learning community that will impact their lives for years to come.
Tip: When Your Family Is Not on Campus
If your spouse and family decide to stay home, there are many opportunities to visit each other throughout the year. Check out the academic calendar to see when your breaks are.