Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University 2026 — Fully Funded Leadership Fellowship for Global Innovators 

Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University 2026: Overview

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University is one of the world’s most prestigious, fully funded graduate fellowship programs designed to develop a new generation of global leaders. Each year, up to 100 outstanding scholars from all over the world are selected to pursue any graduate degree at Stanford—from MBA to PhD, MD, JD, and more—while participating in an intensive leadership development program that emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and civic responsibility.

This initiative is not just about funding education; it’s about transforming visionary students into purposeful leaders who can address complex global challenges through multidisciplinary and multicultural perspectives.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the 2026 cohort, applicants must meet both of the following:

1. Admission to Stanford

   • You must apply to, be accepted by, and enroll in a full-time Stanford graduate degree program (e.g., MA, MBA, MS, PhD, MD, MFA, etc.).

   • You may apply concurrently to both KHS and Stanford, or as a current Stanford student, meeting the outlined conditions.

   Ineligible programs:

   • Honors Cooperative Program

   • Master of Liberal Arts

   • Doctor of Science of Law (JSD)

   • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)

   • Coterminal master’s programs

2. Undergraduate Degree Date

   • Must have earned your first bachelor’s degree on or after January 2019 (or January 2017 for military applicants).

   • Current students who will graduate by September 2026 are also eligible.

Selection Criteria

Knight-Hennessy Scholars are chosen based on three defining qualities:

1. Independence of Thought

   • Visionary thinkers who are intellectually curious, analytical, and creative.

   • Open to new experiences and capable of solving complex, ambiguous challenges.

2. Purposeful Leadership

   • Courageous leaders who act ethically, persist through challenges, and inspire others toward positive change.

3. Civic Mindset

   • Community-driven individuals who are humble, empathetic, and dedicated to serving humanity.

Program Benefits

• Full funding for your entire Stanford graduate program (tuition, stipend, travel, and living expenses).

• Leadership development training through workshops, mentorship, and real-world problem-solving.

• Multidisciplinary and multicultural community of peers from diverse academic, cultural, and professional backgrounds.

• Global alumni network of changemakers across industries and continents.

Application Process

• Apply separately to both Stanford University and Knight-Hennessy Scholars.

• Submit all required documents, including essays, recommendation letters, and a video statement.

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Finalist Experience at Stanford for interviews and networking.

Application window: Opens mid-2025 for the 2026 cohort.

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University 2026 — Fully Funded Leadership Fellowship for Global Innovators