One of the most prominent fully financed graduate scholarship programs in the world is Stanford University’s Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) Program. The program, which was created to prepare future world leaders, places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, leadership development, and meaningful interaction in a varied, diverse community.
In addition to having access to specialized leadership training, mentorship, and chances for practical learning outside of the classroom, Knight-Hennessy Scholars receive full financial assistance for their graduate studies at Stanford. The program unites gifted people from all around the world who are dedicated to using creativity and teamwork to solve difficult global issues.
For aspiring changemakers in all fields, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity with its combination of top-notch instruction, extensive funding, and a robust international network.
This guide will help you prepare a competitive application by guiding you through the eligibility requirements, selection criteria, benefits, and important application dates if you intend to pursue graduate courses at Stanford.
Host Country: USA
Funded By: Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) Program
University: Stanford University
Opportunity Type: Master’s, PhD
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded,
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must apply to, be admitted to, and enroll in a full-time graduate degree program at Stanford University, such as DMA, JD, MA, MBA, MD, MFA, MPP, MS, or PhD.
Candidates may:
- Apply to both Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) and Stanford University in the same application year.
- Hold a deferred admission to Stanford for the 2026 intake.
- Be a first-year Stanford PhD student and apply for KHS to begin funding in their second year of study.
Undergraduate Degree Requirement:
- Applicants must have completed their first or bachelor’s degree in January 2019 or earlier.
- Candidates with military service are eligible if they earned their bachelor’s degree in January 2017 or later.
Benefits:
- complete payment of the applicable academic fees and tuition for the chosen Stanford graduate program.
- a living allowance to cover personal expenditures, meals, and accommodation during the school year.
- a yearly stipend for one round-trip ticket to and from Stanford University.
- exclusive access to professional networking opportunities, community-building events, and leadership development programs.
- membership in an international alumni network of leaders and innovators for life.
Deadline: 10 October 2026
