<p>I have seen it suggested on cc that MIT has a slight advantage over Stanford in preparing students for careers in research/ academia, whereas Stanford has an edge in preparing students who want to participate in partnering with the business community. So, if the goal is to begin a startup company or a CEO of a high tech company, Stanford might be better. On the other hand, if you’re planning on becoming a professor, publish research etc then MIT could be be the ticket.</p>