SCHOLARSHIP OVERVIEW
Location: Stanford University, California, USA
Application Deadline: October 8, 2025 (13:00 PT)
Degree Level: Master’s, PhD, JD, MD, MBA, MFA, DMA, Dual & Joint Degrees
Funding Coverage: Fully Funded (Tuition, Living Stipend, Travel, Enrichment)
Citizenship Eligibility: Open to All Nationalities
Program Summary
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program 2026 is now accepting applications from outstanding emerging leaders across the globe. This prestigious opportunity provides full funding for any graduate degree at Stanford University, along with a world-class leadership development experience through the King Global Leadership Program (KGLP).
Up to 100 new scholars will be selected in 2026 to join a diverse, multidisciplinary cohort committed to driving positive change worldwide.
Key Benefits
- Full Tuition and Fees: Paid directly to Stanford
- Living Stipend: Covers housing, food, books, and personal expenses
- Annual Travel Grant: Round-trip economy class airfare to/from Stanford
- Enrichment Funds: Support for conferences, leadership development, or research activities
- Leadership Curriculum: Access to KGLP seminars, mentorship, and global immersion opportunities
- Stanford Community: Engage with a cohort spanning all 7 Stanford schools, plus access to a powerful alumni network
Eligibility Requirements
- Earned your first bachelor’s degree on or after January 2019 (or January 2017 if you completed military service)
- Open to all nationalities and academic backgrounds
- Must also gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program that begins in Autumn 2026
Application Timeline
| Milestone | Date (Pacific Time) |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | June 2025 |
| Knight-Hennessy Deadline | 8 October 2025 – 13:00 PT |
| Video Statement Invites | Rolling in January 2026 |
| Finalist Notification | 28 January 2026 |
| Scholar Offers | 17 March 2026 |
| Stanford Graduate Program Deadline | Latest 2 December 2025 (varies by department) |
Application Process (Two Steps)
- Apply to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program via the KHS portal (no application fee).
- Apply separately to your chosen Stanford graduate program (standard application fees apply; waivers available).
Note: Admission to your Stanford program and Knight-Hennessy are evaluated independently.
Selection Criteria
Candidates are selected based on the following core qualities:
- Independence of Thought: Curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking
- Purposeful Leadership: Courage, resilience, and impact-driven leadership
- Civic Mindset: Commitment to service and collaborative problem-solving
Proven Application Tips
| Focus Area | Suggested Action |
|---|---|
| Independent Thought | Open your essay with a bold, unconventional idea or problem you solved |
| Purposeful Leadership | Show measurable impact—team led, outcomes achieved |
| Civic Mindset | Demonstrate consistent community engagement |
| Stanford Fit | Link your goals to Stanford’s programs, faculty, or initiatives |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It includes tuition, stipend, travel, and limited enrichment funds.
Can current Stanford grad students apply?
Only first-year students with at least two years remaining in their degree by Autumn 2026 may apply.
Is there a minimum GPA or test score?
No fixed thresholds. Applications are evaluated holistically based on potential and alignment with the three pillars.
How competitive is it?
Approximately 2,500–3,000 applicants compete annually for 100 spots.
How to Apply
Step 1: Submit your Knight-Hennessy Scholars application at the official portal.
Step 2: Apply separately to your Stanford graduate program by its respective deadline.
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