The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is one of the most prestigious and fully funded graduate scholarships in the world. Designed to prepare a new generation of global leaders, the program provides outstanding students from all disciplines and countries with the opportunity to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford with full financial support. If you’re aiming to study in the U.S. in 2025, this program is a top-tier opportunity.
What is the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program?
Launched in 2016, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program empowers students to develop leadership and technical skills through interdisciplinary education, transformative experiences, and a strong global community. It accepts up to 100 scholars annually.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
- Full tuition and associated fees
- Living and academic stipend
- Travel stipend for one annual round-trip to and from Stanford
- Additional funding for academic enrichment (e.g., conferences, research trips)
This extensive funding allows scholars to immerse fully in their academic and leadership pursuits without financial concern.
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Eligibility Criteria for 2025 Intake
- Open to applicants of all nationalities
- Must apply to and be accepted by a full-time graduate program at Stanford (e.g., PhD, JD, MBA, MD, MA, MS)
- Must have earned a bachelor’s degree in January 2018 or later (for those applying in 2024 for the 2025 cohort)
- Must demonstrate leadership, independence of thought, and civic-mindedness
Participating Stanford Programs
Knight-Hennessy supports all Stanford graduate programs, including:
- School of Engineering
- School of Law
- School of Medicine
- Graduate School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Humanities and Sciences
Application Process
- Apply to Knight-Hennessy: Submit a separate application via the Knight-Hennessy website
- Apply to Stanford Program: Submit a standard application to your chosen Stanford graduate program
- Submit Required Documents: Transcripts, recommendation letters, resume, and personal essays
- Video Submission and Interview: Short video introduction and finalist interviews (if selected)
Key Deadlines (for 2025 Intake)
- Knight-Hennessy Application Deadline: October 2024
- Stanford Program Deadlines: Typically between October–December 2024, depending on department
- Finalist Interviews: Early 2025
- Program Begins: Fall 2025
Tips for a Competitive Application
- Be Yourself: Showcase authenticity in your essays and video submission
- Highlight Global Mindset: Demonstrate leadership, resilience, and cross-cultural experience
- Start Early: Coordinate both the Knight-Hennessy and Stanford graduate program applications
- Get Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who can speak to your leadership potential and academic excellence
Why Choose Stanford + Knight-Hennessy?
- Access to one of the top universities in the world
- Fully funded education in any discipline
- Leadership training, mentorship, and community engagement
- Exposure to Silicon Valley innovation and global thought leaders
Final Thoughts
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program isn’t just about financial support—it’s about building a community of future global leaders with the passion and potential to make a difference. If you’re driven, visionary, and committed to excellence, this scholarship could be your launchpad to impact.
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