For the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, each year up to 90 high-achieving students who are independent thinkers, display purposeful leadership, and have a civic orientation will receive full funding to pursue a graduate education at Stanford.
Application Deadline:
- Knight-Hennessy application: October 6, 2026 (1:00 PM Pacific Time)
- Stanford graduate program application: By the earlier of the program deadline or December 1, 2026
Tell Me About The Award:
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious fully funded graduate leadership programs in the world. Hosted at Stanford University, California, USA, it combines full graduate funding with leadership development, interdisciplinary learning, mentorship, and global networking.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants can pursue nearly all full-time graduate programs at Stanford, including:
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Law
- Business
- Public Policy
- Education
- Humanities & Social Sciences
- Sustainability & Climate Studies
- Artificial Intelligence
- Biotechnology & Scientific Research
Eligible degree types: Master’s, PhD, MBA, JD, MD, and joint/dual degrees.
Type:
- Graduate Scholarship | Stanford University | Fully Funded
Who can Apply?
- Applicants from all nationalities and disciplines.
- Must apply separately to both Knight-Hennessy Scholars and a Stanford graduate program.
- Must be accepted into a Stanford graduate program to receive the scholarship.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to positive global impact.
- Selection emphasizes interdisciplinary exposure, entrepreneurial spirit, and resilience.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Open internationally (all nationalities).
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Stanford University, California, USA.
How Many Awards?
- Approximately 100 scholars selected annually.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Full tuition and fees for Stanford graduate program.
- Living stipend.
- Travel costs (including airfare).
- Leadership development and mentorship.
- Access to Stanford’s global research ecosystem and networking opportunities.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Duration depends on the graduate program (typically 2–5 years).
How to Apply:
- Submit Knight-Hennessy application by October 6, 2026 (1:00 PM PT).
- Submit a separate application to your chosen Stanford graduate program by its deadline or December 1, 2026 (whichever is earlier).
- MBA applicants must apply by Round 1 deadline.
- Current Stanford PhD students or deferred admits only need to submit the Knight-Hennessy application.
Visit the Application Webpage for details
Important Notes: Please note that We highly recommend that you apply using a current version of Google Chrome or Mozilla
