Discover the Stanford Knight‑Hennessy Scholars Program

The Knight‑Hennessy Scholars is Stanford University’s flagship, fully funded graduate fellowship designed to cultivate global leaders and changemakers. Launched in 2016 and named after Nike cofounder Phil Knight and Stanford President Emeritus John Hennessy, the program provides a three‑year scholarship for ANY full-time Stanford graduate degree, from law and medicine to engineering and public policy.

What Makes Knight‑Hennessy Special?

• Comprehensive Funding Scholars receive full tuition, a living stipend, travel support, relocation allowance, and even grants for conferences or global projects covering virtually all graduate school costs.
• Leadership Development Beyond financial aid, the program offers leadership training through the King Global Leadership Program and quarterly McMurtry Leadership Lectures featuring high‑impact leaders like Melinda Gates and a Nobel laureate.
• Vibrant Community Scholars become part of a diverse, multidisciplinary group gathering at Denning House, a hub for collaboration, dialogue, and creativity.

✅ Who Should Apply?

Eligibility Highlights (2026 cohort)

• Apply and be admitted to a full‑time Stanford graduate program (e.g., MA, MBA, MD, PhD).
• Earned your bachelor’s degree in January 2019 or later (older if military service).
• No age, nationality, or discipline restrictions.

Selection Criteria

Stanford seeks candidates who vividly demonstrate:

1. Independence of Thought – curiosity, creative problem‑solving, and clarity.
2. Purposeful Leadership – initiative, courage, resilience, impact.
3. Civic Mindset – humility, empathy, collaboration, service‑oriented.

This isn’t about a “formula” but about uniquely reflecting how you embody these values

The Application Journey

The KHS application complements rather than replaces your Stanford graduate application. It includes:

• Online application
• Resume, transcripts, test scores (if required)
• Two recommendation letters
• Short essays + optional 500‑word essay
• Finalists submit a video statement and participate in an immersive Finalist Experience weekend.

Timeline for 2026:

• Apply separately to both Knight‑Hennessy and your Stanford program.
• Evaluations begin post‑submission and include selection of finalists.
• Interview weekends typically happen in early spring.
• Application deadline is usually early October 8, 2025, 1 pm PT knight-hennessy.stanford.edu.

🎯 Insider Tips

From past applicant reflections and advisor insights:

• Start early - don’t leave hidden essays and videos for the last minute.
• Be authentic - share your fears, failures, motivations, and civic passions, not just your achievements.
• Prepare behavioral answers - finalist interviews often include “tell me about a time when...” question formats.
• Reflect deeply - use the video and essays to connect your experiences, inner growth, and future vision.