The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is a highly competitive, fully funded scholarship program designed to prepare future global leaders by providing financial support for graduate studies at Stanford University. Established in 2016 through a $750 million endowment from Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and former Stanford University President John L. Hennessy, this program aims to develop scholars with strong leadership, multidisciplinary thinking, and a commitment to positive global change.

Each year, up to 100 scholars from around the world, including the United States, are selected to pursue graduate degrees at Stanford while participating in leadership development, mentorship, and global impact training.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, applicants must:

• Apply and be admitted to a full-time graduate degree program at Stanford University
• Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from any accredited institution
• Have earned their undergraduate degree in 2018 or later (for applicants applying in 2024)
• Demonstrate independent thinking, leadership skills, and a commitment to making a positive impact

Applicants can be from any nationality, discipline, or background, making the program one of the most diverse and inclusive scholarships in the world.

Scholarship Benefits

The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship is a fully funded award that covers:

• Full tuition and associated fees for any graduate program at Stanford University
• A living stipend for housing, meals, and personal expenses
• Round-trip airfare for an annual trip to and from Stanford
• Additional funding for academic and professional development, such as conferences and travel

Beyond financial support, scholars gain access to a multidisciplinary leadership program, world-class faculty, and mentorship from global industry leaders.

Fields of Study

One of the unique aspects of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is that it is open to all graduate programs at Stanford, including:

• Business (MBA) – Stanford Graduate School of Business
• Law (JD, LLM, JSD) – Stanford Law School
• Medicine (MD) – Stanford School of Medicine
• Engineering (MS, PhD) – School of Engineering
• Humanities & Sciences (MA, PhD) – School of Humanities & Sciences
• Public Policy, Education, and Environmental Science

Scholars have the flexibility to combine multiple programs or design interdisciplinary study paths.

How to Apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

The application process is highly competitive and involves multiple steps:

1. Apply to a Stanford Graduate Program

• Applicants must first apply and be accepted into a graduate degree program at Stanford University.

2. Submit the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Application

• This is a separate application that includes:
  • Personal Statement: Explaining your leadership experience, vision for the future, and why you’re a good fit for the program.
  • Short-Answer Responses: Answering key questions about your ambitions and values.
  • Video Introduction: A short recorded introduction to showcase your personality and motivation.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Strong references highlighting leadership, intellectual curiosity, and personal character.
  • Resume/CV: Showcasing academic achievements, research, and leadership roles.

3. Participate in the Final Interview

• Shortlisted candidates are invited to Stanford for an in-person assessment, including group exercises, leadership challenges, and interviews.

4. Selection and Enrollment

• Finalists are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and alignment with the program’s mission.
• Scholars begin their studies at Stanford in the fall.

Why Choose the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program?

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is more than just a scholarship—it is a leadership incubator that equips scholars with the skills, resources, and networks needed to address global challenges.

Scholars receive mentorship from world-renowned experts, access to Stanford’s cutting-edge research and entrepreneurial ecosystem, and opportunities to collaborate on global initiatives. Graduates of the program go on to lead Fortune 500 companies, launch nonprofits, influence public policy, and drive innovation in technology, healthcare, and social change.

Apply Now

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study at Stanford University while developing leadership skills and joining a global community of changemakers. To learn more about eligibility, application deadlines, and selection criteria, visit the Official Knight-Hennessy Scholars Website. To begin your application, visit the Apply Now page.