The Knight-Hennessy Scholars (KHS) Program 2027 at Stanford University is a prestigious fully funded scholarship opportunity for outstanding graduates from around the world who wish to pursue graduate studies in the United States. The program welcomes applicants who demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to positive impact, and the ability to address global challenges through collaboration and innovation.
The scholarship supports students admitted to eligible full-time Stanford graduate programs, including degrees such as MA, MBA, MD, JD, MFA, MS, MPP, DMA, and PhD programs. Applicants must separately apply for admission to a Stanford graduate program and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program.
The program is designed for individuals who want to create meaningful solutions to complex global issues in areas such as healthcare, climate change, education, government, and public policy. Successful applicants will become part of an international network of scholars and benefit from Stanford’s academic resources, leadership development opportunities, and multicultural learning environment.
Scholarship Benefits
Knight-Hennessy Scholars receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full tuition coverage for the Stanford graduate program.
- Funding support for up to three years from the time of admission and selection.
- A living allowance covering expenses such as accommodation, meals, books, academic supplies, instructional materials, local transportation, and personal expenses.
- Economy-class return airfare to and from Stanford.
- A one-time relocation stipend to assist with moving and technology-related costs.
- Additional funding opportunities for academic enrichment activities such as conferences and travel.
- Access to a global community of scholars and opportunities for cultural exchange.
Additional Benefits
Beyond financial support, Knight-Hennessy Scholars gain access to the King Global Leadership Program, which provides leadership development through workshops, lectures, projects, and practical experiences. Scholars also become part of a diverse international community where they can collaborate with peers from different disciplines and cultures, exchange ideas, and build professional networks through platforms such as Denning House.
Eligibility Criteria for The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Candidates from any country, nationality, ethnicity, gender, or age group can apply.
- Applicants must apply for and enroll in a full-time Stanford graduate degree program.
- Candidates must be new students entering a graduate program at Stanford.
- Applicants must have earned their first bachelor’s degree in 2019 or later.
- Applicants are generally eligible if they apply within four years and enroll within five years after completing their first bachelor’s degree.
- Applicants from the US military (active or veteran) must not have earned their degree before 2017.
- Candidates must meet the admission requirements of the Stanford graduate program they intend to pursue.
- Applicants must demonstrate leadership qualities, a commitment to collaboration, and the potential to create positive change.
Applicants must also meet one of the following conditions:
- They are applying simultaneously to both the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program and a Stanford graduate degree program starting in the same year.
- They have received deferred admission to a Stanford graduate program and will begin both programs in the same year.
- They are current Stanford graduate students applying for a second Stanford graduate degree program.
- They are first-year Stanford PhD students applying to join KHS in their second year.
English Language Requirements
Stanford graduate programs generally accept TOEFL scores as proof of English proficiency. However, Stanford’s MBA program also accepts IELTS and PTE scores.
Applicants should obtain the required test scores before beginning their Stanford graduate program application.
Required Application Documents
- Online application form
- Essays
- Two short-answer responses
- One-page resume
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores
- Two recommendation letters
- In-person assessment
How to Apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
Interested applicants must complete two separate but connected applications:
- Apply for admission to a full-time Stanford graduate degree program.
- Submit an application for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
Applicants should ensure they meet both Stanford graduate admission requirements and Knight-Hennessy eligibility criteria before submitting their applications.
The application deadline is October 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM Pacific Time.