Introduction

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program at Stanford University, established in 2016, is a prestigious graduate-level scholarship aimed at preparing students to assume leadership roles and devise innovative solutions to complex global issues. Named after John S. Knight, founder of Knight-Ridder, Inc., and Henry T. Hennessy, Jr., former chairman and CEO of Knight-Ridder, the program is funded by a generous $600 million gift from the Knight Foundation and the Hennessy Family Foundation.

Program Details

Funding

The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship provides funding for up to three years of graduate study at Stanford University, covering:

• Tuition and fees
• Stipend for living and academic expenses
• Travel stipend for one annual trip to and from Stanford

Additional Provisions

• Newly enrolling scholars receive a one-time relocation stipend.
• Second and third-year scholars can apply for supplemental funds for academic enrichment activities, such as conference travel.
• Funding is initially determined by the KHS admission letter. Scholars pursuing additional graduate programs or those exceeding three years may need to seek additional funding.

Eligibility Criteria

The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship is open to applicants from all countries with no restrictions based on age, field of study, or career aspirations. Key eligibility requirements include:

1. Admission to Stanford: Applicants must apply to and be accepted by a full-time Stanford graduate degree program (e.g., DMA, JD, MA, MBA, MD, MFA, MPP, MS, or PhD) in the same year they apply to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program.
2. Undergraduate Degree Date: Applicants must have earned a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution in January 2017 or later. Military service members receive a two-year extension (degree completion in January 2015 or later). Current college students must earn their first degree by September 2024.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are evaluated based on three main criteria:

1. Independence of Thought: Intellectual curiosity, analytical thinking, and a desire for cross-cultural perspectives.
2. Purposeful Leadership: Courageous and ethical leadership, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth and inspiring positive change.
3. Civic Mindset: Empathy, integrity, and a genuine passion for making a positive societal impact.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Online Application: Including questions about academic background, research interests, and leadership experiences.
• Resume: Highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and extracurricular activities.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended.
• Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores, if applicable.
• Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic achievements, research interests, and leadership potential.
• Short Answers: Responses to questions about academic interests, research goals, and leadership experiences.
• Essay: A personal statement outlining motivations for applying to the program and plans for utilizing the scholarship to make a global impact.

Application Process

To apply, applicants must submit two separate applications:

1. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program: Evaluated based on the selection criteria.
2. Stanford Graduate Degree Program: Follow the specific application process and meet the admission requirements of the desired program.

Scholarship Deadline

The deadline for the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship (KHS) program is October 9, 2024. The deadline for the Stanford graduate degree program varies by course, so applicants should check the specific program for details.

This scholarship offers a unique opportunity for aspiring leaders to further their education at one of the world’s leading universities while being part of a vibrant and diverse community dedicated to addressing global challenges.

knight-hennessy.stanford.edu/admission/planning-apply