Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) Program at Stanford University is one of the world’s most prestigious fully funded graduate scholarships. Designed to cultivate a new generation of global leaders, the program combines comprehensive financial support, world-class education, and immersive leadership development opportunities.
Scholars benefit from a vibrant multicultural community, mentorship from leading academics and industry experts, and access to Stanford’s unparalleled academic resources. The program is open to students from all academic disciplines who wish to pursue graduate studies at Stanford starting in Fall 2026.
Degree Levels
The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship 2026 is available for:
-
Master’s programs (MA, MBA, MPP, MS, MFA, etc.)
-
Doctoral programs (PhD, MD, DMA, JD, etc.)
-
Dual-degree options combining graduate-level programs
Eligible Fields of Study
All graduate programs offered at Stanford University are eligible, including but not limited to:
-
Business & Management – MBA, MSx, Management Science & Engineering
-
Law & Public Policy – JD, LLM, JSM, MPP
-
Medicine & Health Sciences – MD, PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Epidemiology
-
Engineering & Technology – Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
-
Humanities & Social Sciences – Political Science, Sociology, History, Education
-
Natural Sciences – Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences
-
Arts & Creative Fields – MFA in Fine Arts, Music, Design
-
Interdisciplinary Programs – Sustainability, Data Science, International Relations
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars receive comprehensive funding and support, including:
-
Full tuition and associated fees
-
Annual living stipend for accommodation, meals, and personal expenses
-
Annual travel allowance for one round-trip ticket to and from Stanford
-
Access to exclusive leadership development programs and workshops
-
Networking opportunities with global leaders and Stanford alumni
Why Choose the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program?
-
Multidisciplinary Learning – Collaborate with peers from diverse academic backgrounds across Stanford’s seven graduate schools.
-
Global Community – Engage with scholars from multiple nationalities, cultures, and professional experiences.
-
Transformative Leadership Training – Participate in hands-on leadership workshops, mentorship, and experiential learning activities.
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants from any country can apply, provided they meet the academic and degree date requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
-
Secure Admission to Stanford University
-
Apply to a full-time graduate program (MA, MBA, PhD, etc.) at Stanford.
-
You may apply to both KHS and your chosen Stanford program simultaneously.
-
Deferred admission and first-year PhD applicants may also apply.
-
-
Degree Date Requirement
Selection Criteria
The admissions committee evaluates candidates based on:
-
Independence of Thought – Intellectual curiosity, creativity, and open-mindedness
-
Purposeful Leadership – Integrity, resilience, and ability to inspire change
-
Civic Mindset – Empathy, humility, and dedication to serving others
Application Process
Deadline: October 8, 2025 (1:00 PM Pacific Time)
Steps to Apply:
-
Complete the Knight-Hennessy Scholars application, including essays, recommendation letters, and personal statement.
-
Submit a separate application for your chosen Stanford graduate program before its specific deadline.
-
Attend an information session (live or recorded) to understand the application process in depth.
Note: Stanford MBA applicants must apply by Round 1 to be eligible for KHS consideration.
Meta Description
Apply now for the Stanford University Knight-Hennessy Scholarship 2026 in the USA. Fully funded for Master’s and PhD programs across all disciplines. Deadline: October 8, 2025.
FAQs – Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program 2026
1. What is the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship at Stanford University?
It is a fully funded scholarship program for graduate students worldwide, offering tuition, living expenses, and leadership development opportunities.
2. Who can apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program?
Applicants from any nationality who meet Stanford’s graduate admission requirements and the degree date criteria can apply.
3. What degree programs are covered?
All graduate programs at Stanford University, including Master’s, PhD, and dual degrees, are eligible.
4. Does the scholarship cover living expenses?
Yes, it provides an annual living stipend covering accommodation, meals, and personal costs.
5. Can current Stanford students apply?
Yes, first-year PhD students can apply to join KHS in their second year.
6. Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, but you must have earned your first degree within the specified timeframe.
7. How many scholars are selected each year?
Up to 100 scholars are selected annually from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds.
8. When is the application deadline?
The Knight-Hennessy application closes on October 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM Pacific Time.
9. Is IELTS or TOEFL required?
English proficiency requirements depend on your chosen Stanford graduate program.
10. How do I apply?
Submit separate applications to both the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program and your chosen Stanford graduate program before their respective deadlines.