Cardinal Quarter

Spend a summer or quarter building knowledge, skills, and networks while making meaningful contributions to communities across the globe.

What is Cardinal Quarter?

Cardinal Quarter is a full-time, public service experience designed to integrate your academic learning with field-based experience. Dedicate a summer or a quarter to addressing an issue you care about with a partner organization. Over 500 opportunities are offered each year through almost 30 campus partners involved in the Cardinal Quarter initiative.

Cardinal Quarter participants become a part of the broader public service community at Stanford. Engage in preparatory programs, cohort activities, faculty advising sessions, and reflection activities designed to prepare you for your role and help you get the most out of your service experience. You will also receive a stipend to support travel and living costs.

Student and Cardinal Careers advising staff

Talk to an advisor

Application Process

Cardinal Quarter offers opportunities for full-time public service experiences with a partner organization. For the 2024-25 academic year, students may apply for opportunities in the fall, winter, spring, or summer quarters. Explore opportunities to find out if you're eligible and how to apply.

Resources for Fellowship Applicants

Featured Opportunities

Stanford Pride Fellowship

Explore more opportunities

Meet with an Advisor

Need more information? Get started by meeting with a Cardinal Quarter advisor. Program staff and peer advisors are available to answer your questions on Cardinal Quarter opportunities and the application process.