Knight-Hennessy Scholars program in United States

Applications are now open for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program, a fully-endowed, multidisciplinary leadership development program at Stanford University. This prestigious scholarship is open to graduate students from all countries pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees across any of Stanford’s seven schools. The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program provides fully-funded support for up to three years of graduate study.

There are no application fees, and all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their nationality, field of study, career aspirations, or educational background. Whether you are applying to start your graduate studies or are already a Stanford graduate student, this program welcomes visionary leaders committed to addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here

What This Scholarship Offers:

• Fellowship covering all tuition and associated fees
• Monthly funds for room, board, food, and personal expenses
• Funds for books, supplies, and educational materials
• Economy-class round-trip ticket to and from Stanford once per year
• One-time stipend for newly enrolling scholars for moving costs and technology
• Additional funds in years 2-3 for conferences and research
• Mentorship to develop courageous, ethical leadership
• Connection with elite scholars from around the world
• Engage with leaders across all Stanford schools
• Access to support services and professional guidance
• Develop skills to tackle global challenges with vision and collaboration

Eligibility Criteria:

• You must apply to, be accepted by, and enroll in a full-time Stanford graduate degree program
• You qualify if you meet at least ONE of the following conditions:
  • You are applying concurrently to Knight-Hennessy Scholars and a full-time Stanford graduate degree program, with both starting in the same year
  • You have received a deferred admission offer from a full-time Stanford graduate degree program, and will apply to Knight-Hennessy Scholars to start both in the same year
  • You are currently a Stanford graduate student applying to add a new full-time graduate degree program, starting both the scholarship and new degree in the same year
  • You are a current Stanford PhD student in your first year, applying to join Knight-Hennessy Scholars in your second year of PhD enrollment
• Eligible degree programs include: DMA, JD, MA, MBA, MD, MFA, MPP, MS, and PhD
• Ineligible programs include: Honors Cooperative Program, Master of Liberal Arts, Doctor of Science of Law (JSD), Master of Legal Studies (MLS), current PhD students adding a master’s degree in their same PhD discipline, and standard coterminal degrees
• You must have earned a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its international equivalent from a recognized college or university
• For 2027 cohort entry, your bachelor’s degree must be earned by January 2020 or later
• If you have served in the military, the deadline extends to January 2018 or later
• If you are currently enrolled in college, you are eligible if you will complete your degree by September 2027
• We do not prioritize candidates based on how recently they earned their degree, as long as it falls within the eligibility window

Selection Criteria: Three Core Values:

Independence of Thought

• Intellectual ability and clear thinking
• Effective communication and self-reflection
• Curiosity about new perspectives and cross-cultural learning
• Navigate complexity and ambiguity
• Generate innovative solutions

Purposeful Leadership

• Achieve meaningful, impactful results
• Demonstrate courage and resilience facing challenges
• Inspire others toward positive change
• Make ethical decisions aligned with values

Civic Mindset

• Show humility, integrity, and accountability
• Consistent service orientation
• Respect diverse perspectives and experiences
• Passion for contributing to the greater good

FAQ:

I graduated from a non-U.S. institution. Am I eligible?

Yes. You must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university and meet your graduate program’s requirements. Contact Stanford Graduate Admissions for details on international degree equivalency.

I earned my bachelor’s degree before 2020. Can I still apply?

No, if you earned your bachelor’s degree more than seven years before your intended enrollment date (2019 or earlier for autumn 2027 entry), you are not eligible. Military service members receive two additional years of eligibility.

I’m undocumented. Am I eligible?

Yes. If you have DACA status, are undocumented, or do not hold formal citizenship, you are eligible to apply to Stanford and Knight-Hennessy Scholars. See Undocumented at Stanford for more information.

I already have a graduate degree. Am I eligible?

Yes, as long as you earned your first bachelor’s degree in 2020 or later (or 2018 or later if you served in the military).

I’m a Stanford graduate student. Can I apply?

• PhD students in first year starting 2026: You may apply in 2026 to start KHS in 2027 (your second PhD year)
• Currently enrolled (2025 or earlier): You are not eligible for your current program
• Applying to a new Stanford degree program: You may apply if the new program starts in 2027

Can I defer my Knight-Hennessy Scholars offer?

No. Knight-Hennessy Scholars does not offer deferrals. If you cannot enroll the year you’re selected, you must reapply for the year you intend to enroll.

I deferred my Stanford graduate program enrollment. Can I apply to KHS?

Yes. You may apply to start KHS the year you actually enroll in your graduate program, as long as you meet all other eligibility requirements.

I have a fellowship from Stanford. Can I still apply to KHS?

It depends on your fellowship. Some fellowships cannot be combined with KHS. Refer to your program or the KHS website for a complete list. Contact KHS directly if you have questions.

Should my KHS and Stanford program applications be the same?

No, they should be distinct. Your content may overlap, but write different essays answering each application’s specific prompts. Some materials like transcripts may be identical, but consider different recommenders for each application.

Can I apply to multiple Stanford graduate programs?

Yes, but you typically cannot apply to more than one program simultaneously. Check Stanford Graduate Admissions policies for details.

Does KHS review my Stanford degree program application?

No. Knight-Hennessy Scholars receives only your KHS application. The two application processes are completely separate, though KHS verifies with departments that you remain competitive for your degree program.

Can I edit my application after submitting it?

No, except for:

• Adding test scores
• Changing recommenders
• Changing your intended Stanford degree program
• Uploading an updated resume

Make changes through your Application Status page.

Can I change my degree program after applying?

Yes. You may update your intended degree program via your Application Status page after submitting your KHS application.

Does KHS provide application fee waivers for my degree program?

No. Knight-Hennessy Scholars has no application fee, but your Stanford degree program may charge fees. KHS cannot provide waivers for degree program applications. Contact Stanford Graduate Admissions for information on fee waivers you may qualify for.

What if my field has specific prerequisites?

In most cases, you may apply to a graduate program even if you didn’t study that field as an undergraduate. Check your specific program’s website for any prerequisite requirements.

How to Apply:

• Step 1: Apply to Your Graduate Degree Program
• Step 2: Apply to Knight-Hennessy Scholars
  • Submit required materials:
    • Personal background and academic history
    • Statement of purpose and leadership vision
    • Academic transcripts
    • Letters of recommendation (2-3)
    • Resume or CV
    • Video statement (if selected as finalist)
• Step 3: Apply before October 6, 2026