Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) Program
A fully-endowed, multidisciplinary leadership development program for graduate students at Stanford University. Scholars receive up to three years of financial support to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford while engaging in leadership training.
Quick Facts
Status
Opening SoonFunding
Fully FundedDeadline
October 6, 2026, 1:00 pm Pacific Time
Country
United StatesAbout the Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) Program
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) program is a multidisciplinary leadership development initiative for graduate students at Stanford University. It brings together a diverse cohort of scholars from around the globe to pursue graduate studies at any of Stanford's seven schools, preparing them to be visionary and collaborative leaders capable of addressing complex global challenges.
Scholars participate in up to three years of programming that complements their academic studies. This includes leadership development experiences, community engagement, and collaborative projects designed to prepare them for leadership roles in academia, industry, government, and the nonprofit sector.
The program is built on three core pillars: independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset. Each year, a new cohort joins the community, adding to a diverse group of scholars with varied backgrounds, nationalities, and academic disciplines.
Funding is provided for up to three years for any graduate degree program at Stanford. This includes tuition, a stipend for living and academic expenses, and a travel stipend for one annual trip to and from Stanford. Additional support is available for relocation and academic enrichment activities.
Applicants must apply separately to both the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program and their chosen Stanford graduate degree program. Admission to the graduate program is a prerequisite for selection as a Knight-Hennessy scholar.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Multidisciplinary and multicultural community of graduate students
Comprehensive financial support covering tuition, living, and travel expenses
Dedicated leadership development programming
Access to a global network of scholars and mentors
Opportunity to pursue any graduate degree across Stanford's seven schools
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
5 requirements
Documents Checklist
7 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Apply separately and concurrently to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program and a full-time Stanford graduate degree program
Submit all required application materials through the online portal by the deadline
Undergo evaluation process by the KHS committee
Participate in the Finalist Experience if invited
Receive final admission decision for both the graduate program and the scholarship
Application Timeline
October 6, 2026
Application Deadline
1:00 pm Pacific Time
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Ensure your application reflects the three core criteria: independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and civic mindset
Apply to your chosen Stanford graduate program as early as possible to ensure your application is complete
Use the reflection questions provided on the website to prepare your essays
Be prepared to articulate how your background and future goals align with the KHS community
Check the specific funding commitment for your chosen degree program, as some programs have different durations
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions - click any to expand
Yes, you remain eligible as long as you earned your first bachelor's degree in January 2020 or later.
No, there are no restrictions based on age.
No, KHS does not defer scholar offers. You must reapply if you are unable to enroll.
Yes, if you have been granted DACA status or are otherwise undocumented, you are eligible to apply.
Ready to Apply?
Applications open Varies - confirm on official site - get your documents ready now.
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