By The daily Torch media.
Stanford University has firmly denied claims that it offered UK politician Kemi Badenoch a medical school scholarship at the age of 16.
The denial counters a narrative previously promoted by Badenoch and the Conservative Party, suggesting she was awarded a pre-medical scholarship due to an exceptionally high SAT score but declined the offer for personal reasons.
Jon Reider, the Stanford admissions officer at the time, stated that he would have overseen Badenoch’s application and confirmed that no such offer was extended. He noted that Stanford’s admissions process is holistic and does not base acceptance solely on test scores.
Reider further explained that Stanford offers full financial aid to admitted students who demonstrate need, covering the full cost of attendance. “I made the selections myself, subject to the approval of the dean. I was never overruled by any of the three deans for whom I worked,” he said.
Stanford’s position is backed by Ivy League admissions experts, alumni, and a former Ivy League vice-provost, all of whom affirmed that admission is not granted based solely on exam performance.
Additionally, Stanford University’s website confirms it does not offer a pre-med major, as medicine is a graduate-level program.
While the Conservative Party has rejected Stanford’s rebuttal, the Liberal Democrats are calling on Badenoch to clarify the full details behind her claims.
