Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) is a fully funded, leadership-focused graduate scholarship at Stanford University. It supports up to three years of graduate study across Stanford’s schools (e.g., Engineering, Humanities & Sciences, Medicine, Education, Law, Business, Sustainability). Scholars join the King Global Leadership Program (KGLP), which includes workshops, talks, and immersive experiences designed to cultivate impact-driven leadership.
Key Facts (Quick Look)
- Host: Stanford University, California, USA
- Level: Master’s, PhD, JD, MD, MFA, MBA, and other Stanford graduate degrees
- Funding: Full tuition, stipend for living and academic expenses, and travel allowance (up to three years; some programs may require additional departmental funding beyond three years)
- Focus: Leadership development via KGLP; interdisciplinary community
- Citizenship: Open to applicants of all nationalities
Eligibility Snapshot
- Applicants must apply both to KHS and to an eligible Stanford graduate program.
- Academic preparation that meets Stanford’s program requirements.
- Degree recency window: typically a first/bachelor’s degree earned within a set timeframe before enrollment (extensions exist for military service).
- English proficiency as required by Stanford programs.
- No age limit and no field restrictions (beyond Stanford’s offerings).
What the Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition and associated fees for the Stanford program (for up to three years).
- A living stipend intended to cover housing, food, local transport, and personal expenses.
- Economy-class airfare for one annual trip to and from Stanford.
- Enrichment funding for academic/professional development may be available.
Timeline (2025–2026 Cycle)
- Knight-Hennessy application deadline: Early October 2025 (exact time is specified on the official site).
- Stanford program deadlines: Vary by program; usually no later than early December 2025.
- Finalist/selection notifications: Early 2026.
Always verify your specific Stanford program deadline and submit the KHS application before or by the KHS deadline. You submit two applications: one to KHS and one to the Stanford program.
Selection Criteria (What Reviewers Look For)
- Independence of Thought: Originality, intellectual curiosity, clarity of purpose.
- Purposeful Leadership: Evidence of impact, initiative, and capacity to lead.
- Civic Mindset: Humility, inclusivity, and service to a broader community.
Required Materials (Typical)
- Online KHS application (biographical info, academic history).
- Résumé/CV.
- Short-answer responses and a personal statement.
- A video introduction/statement.
- Recommendation letters (usually two, occasionally three).
- English test scores if required by Stanford program.
- Separate, full graduate program application to Stanford (transcripts, test scores, writing samples, etc., depending on program).
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Map your graduate goals: Identify the Stanford program(s) that fit your trajectory.
- Confirm eligibility and deadlines for both KHS and your degree program.
- Assemble recommenders who can speak to leadership and intellectual distinction.
- Draft essays and video: Tell a cohesive story of impact and vision.
- Submit KHS early: Don’t wait—technical issues happen.
- Submit Stanford program application ahead of that program’s own deadline.
- Prepare for interviews: Review your application, clarify your leadership examples, and articulate your long-term contribution.
Tips to Stand Out
- Connect past leadership to a future plan that leverages Stanford’s resources.
- Show interdisciplinary curiosity—KHS values breadth and collaboration.
- Use the video to convey authenticity (not production quality).
- Demonstrate global/civic impact: measurable outcomes and what you learned.
Common Questions
Can I apply if I already started a Stanford program?
Sometimes, yes—check the KHS rules for current Stanford students and the timing of your program.
What if my program exceeds three years?
KHS funds up to three years; work with your department on funding for additional years if your degree is longer (e.g., PhD, MD, JD).
Do I need a separate TOEFL/IELTS?
Follow Stanford’s program requirements; many require proof of English proficiency.