The wait is over! The prestigious Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University has officially opened its application portal for the 2026 cohort. If you are an ambitious, driven, and visionary student from anywhere in the world, this is your moment to step forward and claim your seat at one of the world’s most elite academic and leadership programs.
What Is Knight-Hennessy?
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is more than just a scholarship—it’s a life-changing leadership journey. It fully funds your graduate studies at Stanford University in any discipline while placing you in a high-impact leadership development environment surrounded by scholars from across the globe.
From MBAs to PhDs, MDs to JDs, you can apply to almost any full-time Stanford graduate program and simultaneously apply to Knight-Hennessy for a complete funding package and global leadership immersion.
What’s Covered by Knight Hennessy Scholars Program in 2026?
This is a fully funded scholarship, which includes:
- Full tuition and fees
- Living and academic expenses
- Leadership training, mentorship, and networking events
- Travel stipend to and from Stanford
You don’t just study—you grow, network, and lead with purpose on a global stage.
Who Should Apply?
You’re eligible if:
- You’ll have completed your undergraduate degree between January 2019 and August 2025
- You are applying for a full-time graduate program at Stanford starting in Fall 2026
- You are a forward-thinker with leadership potential, independent thought, and a deep commitment to service.
Application Timeline (2026 Cohort)
The application for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars 2026 cohort is now officially open as of June 1, 2025. Interested applicants must submit their complete Knight-Hennessy application by the deadline of October 8, 2025, no later than 1:00 PM Pacific Time.
In January 2026, selected applicants will be invited to submit a video statement as part of the next stage of the selection process. Finalist notifications will be sent out on January 28, 2026. Those selected as finalists will then be invited to participate in an in-person Immersion Weekend, including interviews and group activities, scheduled for March 6–7, 2026.
Finally, successful applicants will be notified of their selection as Knight-Hennessy Scholars on March 17, 2026.
How to Apply?
You must complete two applications:
- Knight-Hennessy Scholars Application – includes essays, CV, recommendation letters, and transcripts
- Stanford Graduate Program Application – apply separately to the degree program of your choice
Both applications must be submitted for you to be considered for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars cohort as per this call https://knight-hennessy.stanford.edu/admission/before-you-apply.