The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious and generous graduate-level scholarships globally. It was established in 2016 at Stanford University and this program is designed to develop a community of future leaders dedicated to addressing complex global challenges. By combining world-class education with leadership training, this program prepares scholars to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields and communities.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars cultivates and supports a multidisciplinary and multicultural community of graduate students from across Stanford University, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare graduates to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders who address complex challenges facing the world.
Stanford University was founded in 1885 and is one of the top world universities. It is a well known place for learning, discovery, innovation, expression, and discourse. They have changed with the world over the last 125+ years, often leading the way with new ideas and discoveries and their Knight-Hennessy Scholarship Program in the United States is a big magnet for talents all over the world.
Eligibility Criteria
Knight-Hennessy Scholars has no restrictions based on age, college or university, field of study, or career aspiration. They encourage citizens and residents of all countries to apply and they do not require applicants to seek endorsements from colleges, universities, or other institutions. Additionally, there are no quotas by discipline or program.
There are two baseline eligibility requirements which include:
1. Admission to Stanford
You must apply to, be accepted by, and enroll in a full-time Stanford graduate degree program including, but not limited to, DMA, JD, MA, MBA, MD, MFA, MPP, MS, or PhD programs. You must meet at least one of the following four conditions:
- You are applying separately but concurrently to KHS and a full-time Stanford graduate degree program such that you will start both in the same year.
- You have already been offered and deferred admission to a full-time Stanford graduate degree program, and will apply to KHS such that you will start both in the same year.
- You are a current Stanford graduate student who will apply to add a second full-time Stanford graduate degree program, such that you will start both KHS and the new program in the same year.
- You are a current Stanford PhD student in your first year of enrollment, and will apply to KHS such that you will start KHS in your second year of PhD enrollment.
2. Undergraduate Degree Date
You must have earned, in January 2018 or later, a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a college or university of recognized standing. For applicants who served in the military, the eligibility window is extended by two years in acknowledgement of longer service commitments; you must have earned your degree in January 2016 or later to enroll in 2025. Current college students are eligible if they will earn their first degree by September 2025.
Application Process
The application process for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is rigorous and requires careful preparation. It involves two separate but concurrent applications: one for the graduate program at Stanford and one for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program.
Step 1: Research Stanford Graduate Programs
- Identify the graduate program(s) at Stanford that align with your academic and professional goals.
- Each program has its own admission requirements and deadlines.
Step 2: Apply to the Graduate Program
- Submit a complete application to the Stanford graduate program of your choice. Ensure you meet all requirements and deadlines.
Step 3: Apply to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
- Complete the Knight-Hennessy Scholars application, which includes:
- Personal Information: Basic details about your background and education.
- Essays and Short-Answer Questions: Thoughtful responses about your leadership experiences, vision for the future, and why you are pursuing graduate studies.
- Video Statement: A short video introducing yourself to the selection committee.
- Recommendation Letters: Two recommendation letters that speak to your leadership abilities, character, and potential.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting academic, professional, and extracurricular achievements.
Step 4: Participate in the Final Interview
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in an Immersion Weekend at Stanford, which includes interviews and interaction with faculty, scholars, and alumni.
Deadlines
- Knight-Hennessy Scholars applications are typically due in early October.
- Graduate program application deadlines vary but generally fall between November and January.
Award Benefits
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program offers an array of benefits designed to support scholars academically, financially, and personally.
1. Comprehensive Financial Support
- Tuition and Fees: Full coverage of tuition and associated fees for the duration of the graduate program.
- Living Stipend: A generous stipend to cover living expenses such as housing, food, and personal needs.
- Travel Allowance: A separate annual allowance for round-trip airfare to and from Stanford.
2. Leadership Development
- Scholars participate in the King Global Leadership Program, which includes workshops, seminars, and immersive experiences focused on leadership, communication, and collaboration.
- The program emphasizes self-awareness, adaptability, and effective decision-making.
3. Global Network
- Scholars join a diverse and dynamic community of leaders from around the world.
- Alumni become part of a lifelong network of professionals, innovators, and changemakers committed to addressing global challenges.
4. Interdisciplinary Learning
- Opportunities to collaborate across disciplines and engage with faculty and peers from various fields.
- Access to Stanford’s vast resources, including research centers, libraries, and entrepreneurial initiatives.
Conclusion
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is more than a scholarship, it is a transformative experience that equips scholars with the skills, resources, and network to drive meaningful change in the world. For ambitious, forward-thinking leaders with a vision for global impact, this program offers an unparalleled opportunity to pursue advanced studies at Stanford while honing leadership and civic engagement skills.