Stanford University’s Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious graduate scholarship programs in the world. Designed to develop a new generation of global leaders, this program provides exceptional students with full funding for graduate studies at Stanford while immersing them in leadership training, interdisciplinary learning, and mentorship opportunities.
For ambitious students who dream of making a meaningful impact on society, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) Program offers unparalleled financial support, networking opportunities, and personal development resources. Whether you are pursuing a master’s, PhD, MBA, JD, MD, or dual-degree program, this scholarship provides the tools to help you excel.
This guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, application process, selection criteria, and tips to increase your chances of becoming a Knight-Hennessy Scholar.
1. Overview of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (KHS) was established in 2016 with a $750 million endowment from Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and Stanford University. This program aims to create a community of future global leaders by offering full funding for graduate study at Stanford.
Key Features of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program:
✔ Full Financial Support – Covers tuition, living expenses, and other academic-related costs.
✔ Leadership Development – Provides leadership training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
✔ Interdisciplinary Learning – Encourages scholars to collaborate across different academic fields.
✔ Global Community – Welcomes students from all nationalities and backgrounds.
✔ Flexible Degree Options – Available for all graduate programs at Stanford.
Each year, around 100 students from across the world are selected to join the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, making it one of the most competitive scholarship programs globally.
2. Benefits of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program goes beyond financial support. Scholars receive comprehensive resources to develop into well-rounded leaders who can address major global challenges.
A. Financial Benefits
✔ Full Tuition Coverage – The scholarship pays for the entire tuition fee of the selected graduate program at Stanford.
✔ Living Stipend – Covers housing, food, books, and other personal expenses.
✔ Travel Allowance – Provides funds for an annual economy-class flight to and from Stanford.
✔ Health Insurance – Covers the scholar’s health insurance and wellness benefits.
✔ Additional Funding – Some scholars may receive grants for research, internships, and conferences.
B. Leadership and Professional Development
✔ King Global Leadership Program (KGLP) – Scholars participate in workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events designed to enhance leadership skills.
✔ Multidisciplinary Collaboration – Scholars interact with experts, policymakers, and business leaders to gain a broader perspective on world issues.
✔ Personalized Mentorship – Access to world-class mentors and career advisors who help scholars achieve their goals.
C. Community and Networking
✔ Diverse Peer Group – Scholars come from different backgrounds and fields, creating an environment of interdisciplinary learning and cultural exchange.
✔ Global Alumni Network – Graduates of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program become part of a powerful global network of leaders and innovators.
✔ Social Impact Initiatives – Scholars collaborate on projects that address global challenges like climate change, healthcare, and education.
3. Eligibility Criteria for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
Before applying, it is essential to check whether you meet the eligibility requirements for the scholarship.
A. Academic Eligibility
✔ Applicants must apply for and be accepted into a full-time graduate program at Stanford University.
✔ Eligible programs include master’s, PhD, MBA, JD (law), MD (medicine), MFA, or dual-degree programs.
✔ There are no restrictions on field of study, meaning applicants from all academic disciplines can apply.
B. Degree Completion Requirement
✔ Applicants must have earned their bachelor’s degree within the last seven years from the application year.
✔ For example, if you are applying for Fall 2025 admission, your bachelor’s degree must have been awarded in 2018 or later.
✔ Current Stanford graduate students enrolling in a second degree at Stanford are also eligible.
C. Nationality and Background
✔ The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is open to applicants of all nationalities.
✔ There are no restrictions based on country, citizenship, or background.
D. Personal and Leadership Qualities
✔ Applicants should demonstrate leadership skills, innovative thinking, and a commitment to positive global change.
✔ Stanford values students who are collaborative, ambitious, and willing to challenge the status quo.
4. Application Process for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
Applying for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program requires a two-step application process:
1️⃣ Apply separately to your chosen Stanford graduate program.
2️⃣ Submit a Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program application through the KHS portal.
Step 1: Apply for Stanford Graduate Admission
✔ Choose your desired master’s, PhD, or professional degree program.
✔ Complete the Stanford University graduate program application before the program’s deadline.
✔ Each program has specific requirements, such as GRE/GMAT scores, essays, and interviews.
Step 2: Apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
✔ Submit the KHS application online through the official portal.
✔ The application includes:
- Personal statement (describing your leadership journey and aspirations).
- Short-answer questions (highlighting personal achievements).
- Video introduction (to showcase personality and communication skills).
- Letters of recommendation (from academic or professional mentors).
- Resume or CV (highlighting leadership experiences).
Step 3: Selection Process
✔ Applications are reviewed by a selection committee based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and personal character.
✔ Shortlisted candidates are invited for an in-person assessment at Stanford, which includes:
- Team-based exercises
- One-on-one interviews
- Leadership challenges
✔ Final scholars are selected based on their ability to contribute to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars community and global leadership initiatives.
5. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Being Selected
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants applying each year. Here are key strategies to improve your chances:
✔ Demonstrate Strong Leadership – Highlight projects, initiatives, or organizations where you have taken a leadership role.
✔ Showcase Global Impact – Discuss how your work has contributed to positive social change.
✔ Write a Compelling Personal Statement – Your essay should be authentic, inspiring, and reflective of your vision for the future.
✔ Obtain Strong Recommendation Letters – Choose referees who can speak about your leadership, character, and academic achievements.
✔ Prepare for the Interview – Practice answering behavioral and leadership-related questions.
✔ Meet Application Deadlines – Ensure that you submit both the Stanford graduate application and KHS application on time.
Conclusion
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is an extraordinary opportunity for talented students worldwide to pursue graduate studies while developing leadership skills. With full financial support, interdisciplinary learning, and mentorship, this scholarship empowers scholars to make a significant impact on the world.
If you are an ambitious, visionary leader ready to drive positive change, start preparing your application today!