<p>It is certainly possible to get books and supplies for less. Here’s the thing, though - Stanford has three quarters instead of two semesters, so students have to buy books a “third” time. Traditionally students take ten classes in a year, but Stanford students can take upwards of twelve. It all depends on how thrifty you are and what classes you take. The standard campus job amount is $2500; the standard student contribution is $4500. Everyone has a student contribution, total, of at least $4500. But remember, that usually goes toward books, travel and personal expenses (that is, NOT tuition, room and board, or fees).</p>