Are you looking for fully funded scholarships to study in the USA? The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship 2026 at Stanford University stands out as one of the most prestigious and competitive opportunities available for graduate students worldwide. This scholarship offers more than 100 fully funded scholarships. This program is designed to attract talented, visionary individuals who are committed to making a global impact through leadership, innovation, and academic excellence.
Whether you’re aiming to pursue a Master’s, MBA, JD, MD, or Ph.D., this scholarship offers the financial aid and mentorship you need to excel at one of the most respected universities in the world.
All the students of different nationalities who completed their graduation after January 2018 can apply for this scholarship.
In a time when the cost of higher education can be a barrier for many, fully funded scholarships like Knight-Hennessy provide an unparalleled opportunity. Not only does it cover all major expenses, but it also equips scholars with leadership training, networking opportunities, and access to Stanford’s rich academic resources.
Interested students can apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship 2026 through the official website knight-hennessy.stanford.edu before the deadline October 8, 2025.
In this article, I have given a comprehensive guide to help you understand every detail of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program—from eligibility criteria and benefits to how you can submit a successful application.
Important info
| Scholarship Name | Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program 2026 |
| Host University | Stanford University |
| Host Country | United States |
| Degree Level | All Graduate Programs |
| Financial Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Number of Scholarships | 100+ |
| Duration | Up to 3 Years |
| Application Deadline | October 8, 2025 |
| Eligibility | All Nationalities + Bachelor’s after Jan 2018 |
| Language Requirement | TOEFL (IELTS/PTE for MBA only) |
| Application Requirement | Separate applications to Stanford & KHS |
| Official Website | knight-hennessy.stanford.edu |
Knight-Hennessy Scholarship eligibility criteria
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is open to students from all countries and academic backgrounds. You are eligible if you meet the following criteria:
- This scholarship is applicable for all nationalities around the world.
- Academic Qualification:
- You must have earned your undergraduate degree in January 2018 or later
- For U.S. military applicants: degrees earned in January 2015 or later are accepted
- Stanford Admission: You must apply separately and be accepted to a full-time Stanford graduate program (JD, MA, MBA, MD, MS, PhD, MFA, DMA, or joint/dual degrees)
- New Students Only: Current Stanford graduate students are not eligible
- English Language Proficiency:
- TOEFL required for most programs
- IELTS or PTE accepted for MBA applicants
Scholarship Benefits
The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship offers one of the most generous packages for graduate students in the United States. This scholarship is designed to attract the most talented students around the world and to support them financially, academically. This scholarship provides the benefit of various aspects tuition fees to travel allowances, enabling the students’ academic journey to be smooth.
Here are the benefits of Knight-Hennessy Scholarship:
- Full Tuition Fee: Covers all tuition and mandatory academic fees for up to 3 years.
- Living Stipend: Scholars will receive the living stipends that Include housing, food, books, local transport, and personal expenses.
- Annual Round-Trip Airfare: One economy-class ticket to/from Stanford each year
- Relocation Grant: One-time payment to help to manage the cost to shift at Stanford.
- Conference & Travel Funding: Additional fund will be provided to attend academic conferences or educational trips
- Summer Research Support: Additional funding for summer enrichment or research projects
Also Read: The Alix Earle Scholarship 2025
Required Documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, MCAT, LSAT as applicable)
- One-page resume (CV)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal essays
- Two short-answer responses
- 2-minute video introduction
- Attend an in-person or virtual assessment (if shortlisted)
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for this scholarship requires two separate applications:
Step 1: Apply to a Stanford Graduate Program + Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
You have to apply separately for both the Stanford Graduate program (MBA, MS, PhD, JD, etc.) and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program.
Step 2: Apply to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
While filling application for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, clearly mention which stanford graduate program you have applied for.
Step 3: Fill application form:
Fill the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship application with accurate details and submit your application with all required documents. Make sure all the documents are up to date.
Tip: Use the latest version of Google Chrome or Firefox for a smoother application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the scholarship renewable each year?
Yes. It covers up to three years of graduate study as long as academic progress is maintained.
Q2. Can I apply if I already started a graduate program?
No. This scholarship is only for those applying to begin a new full-time graduate program at Stanford University.
Q3. Is knowledge of English mandatory?
Yes. English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE is required while application.
Q4. Is there an age limit?
There is no age restriction, but applicants must meet the degree completion criteria based on the year.