Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program: Empowering Future Global Leaders

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is one of the world’s most prestigious scholarship programs, designed to attract and nurture a multidisciplinary cohort of visionary leaders who will tackle global challenges. Hosted by Stanford University, this program provides comprehensive funding for graduate-level study while emphasizing leadership, community, and innovation.

If you aspire to make a meaningful impact on the world, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program offers the resources, education, and network to help you realize your vision.

About the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

Launched in 2016 through a generous endowment from Nike co-founder Phil Knight and Stanford University, the program supports up to 100 scholars annually from around the world. Its mission is to cultivate leaders who are committed to creating positive change across diverse fields, including business, law, engineering, medicine, and the humanities.

Key Features of the Program:

• Open to students pursuing graduate degrees in any of Stanford’s seven schools.
• Focuses on leadership development, interdisciplinary education, and global engagement.
• Encourages a vibrant and diverse community of scholars.

What the Program Covers

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is a fully-funded scholarship that includes:

1. Full Tuition and Fees: Covers the cost of tuition for any graduate program at Stanford.
2. Living Stipend: Provides a stipend to cover room, board, and personal expenses.
3. Travel Allowance: Covers one annual round-trip ticket to and from Stanford.
4. Supplemental Funding: Includes support for academic enrichment such as conferences and internships.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Admission to a Stanford Graduate Program:
   • You must apply separately to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program and your desired Stanford graduate program.
   • Admission to both is required for eligibility.
2. Educational Background:
   • You must hold a bachelor’s degree earned in 2017 or later for the 2024 application cycle.
   • Applicants from all academic disciplines and nationalities are welcome.
3. Leadership Potential:
   • Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire others.
   • A commitment to making a positive global impact.
4. Strong Academic Record:
   • Proven excellence in your academic pursuits.
5. Proficiency in English:
   • All scholars must demonstrate English proficiency as Stanford’s programs are taught in English.

Application Process

The application process for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is competitive and involves several steps:

Step 1: Apply to a Stanford Graduate Program

• Choose from more than 125 graduate programs offered across Stanford’s seven schools.
• Submit your graduate application by the program-specific deadline.

Step 2: Apply to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

• Complete the Knight-Hennessy Scholars application, which includes:
  • Online application form.
  • Résumé or CV.
  • Personal statement explaining your vision and values.
  • Short-answer responses.
  • Video introduction.
  • Recommendation letters.

Step 3: Interview

• Finalists are invited to a multi-day Immersion Weekend at Stanford, which includes interviews, leadership exercises, and networking events.

Step 4: Await Decision

• Successful applicants are notified in the spring and join the next cohort of scholars in the fall.

Key Deadlines

• Knight-Hennessy Application Deadline: Early October (varies by year).
• Stanford Graduate Program Deadlines: Vary by program but are generally between October and January.

Applicants are encouraged to start the process early to ensure they meet all deadlines.

Why Choose the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program?

1. Global Community: Scholars hail from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment.
2. Leadership Development: The program emphasizes leadership training through workshops, mentorship, and experiential learning.
3. Interdisciplinary Focus: Opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, promoting innovative solutions to complex challenges.
4. Stanford Excellence: Access to world-class resources, faculty, and facilities at Stanford University.
5. Network of Changemakers: Join a lifelong network of peers and alumni committed to driving change.

Alumni Impact

Knight-Hennessy Scholars have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields, including public health, technology, law, and social entrepreneurship. The program’s emphasis on leadership and global impact ensures that its graduates are equipped to tackle pressing challenges and drive innovation.

Conclusion

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is more than a scholarship—it’s a transformative journey for aspiring leaders who are committed to creating a better future. With its comprehensive support, world-class education, and vibrant community, the program empowers scholars to turn their visions into reality.

If you’re passionate about driving meaningful change and want to study at one of the world’s leading universities, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program could be the opportunity of a lifetime.

For more information and application details, visit the official Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program website.