Are you dreaming of a fully funded scholarship at a leading universities? The Knight Hennessy Scholarship 2026 is now open.
Unlike many other USA scholarships, the Knight-Hennessy program at Stanford University welcomes applicants from every country, academic background, and career path, with absolutely no age restrictions, no requirement for endorsements, and no quotas by field or region. If you’re passionate about change and global impact, this might be your gateway to a world-class education.
What You Need to Be Eligible
Requirement 1: Admission to Stanford Graduate Programs
To qualify, you must apply to a full-time graduate degree at Stanford, such as MA, MBA, MD, MFA, JD, PhD, MPP, or MS. You can:
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- Apply concurrently to both KHS and a Stanford program for a joint start in 2026
- Have a deferred offer from a previous year and plan to begin in 2026
- Be a current Stanford student, adding a second full-time degree
- Be in your first year of a Stanford PhD and start KHS in your second year
Note: Some programs like the Honors Cooperative Program and the Master of Legal Studies (MLS) are not eligible.
Requirement 2: Your First Degree Must Be Recent
You must have earned your first bachelor’s degree in January 2019 or later. If you served in the military, your window is extended to January 2017. Students currently completing their undergraduate degree by September 2026 are also eligible.
Who Can Apply?
Everyone! Whether you’re a citizen, resident, international student, or undocumented, you are welcome to apply as long as you meet Stanford’s graduate admission standards and degree equivalency. This program is open to all, regardless of your past university or where you earned your degree.
Already have a graduate degree? That’s okay — you’re still eligible if your first bachelor’s degree was earned in 2019 or later.
Why Knight-Hennessy?
- Covers full tuition, stipends, and travel
Offers leadership development, innovation hubs, and global networking
Access to Stanford’s world-class resources across fields like technology, law, public health, business, and education
By joining the Knight-Hennessy Scholars, you become part of a bold, diverse community shaping the future of leadership and discovery, whether you’re pursuing higher education in the USA, looking for graduate funding, or chasing your PhD dreams.
Apply with Confidence
If you’re applying to graduate school in the USA and looking for elite, fully funded opportunities, Knight-Hennessy is one of the best scholarships available. With no financial burden and access to Stanford’s unmatched academic and professional environment, this is your chance to stand out globally.
Deadline approaches fast. Start preparing your documents and apply today for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program 2026.
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program?
Anyone who has earned a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its international equivalent in January 2019 or later is eligible. If you served in the military, the eligibility window extends to January 2017. You must also apply to and be accepted by a full-time Stanford graduate degree program.
2. Can I apply if I graduate by September 2026?
Yes! If you’re currently completing your undergraduate studies and will graduate by September 2026, you are eligible to apply for the 2026 Knight-Hennessy cohort.
3. I earned my degree outside the United States. Am I still eligible?
Absolutely. International students are welcome to apply. You just need to meet Stanford’s minimum admission requirements for your chosen graduate program and have a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s from a recognized institution.
4. What if I graduated before 2019?
Unfortunately, if you earned your first degree in 2018 or earlier, you’re not eligible for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars 2026 intake — even if you’ve earned another degree later. Exceptions apply only to military veterans.
- I am undocumented. Can I still apply?
Yes. Undocumented students, including those with DACA status or without formal citizenship, can apply and enroll at Stanford and through Knight-Hennessy Scholars. Visit the Undocumented at Stanford site for more information.
6. I already have a graduate degree. Am I still eligible?
Yes, as long as your first bachelor’s degree was awarded in 2019 or later. Military applicants may use the 2017 window.
7. Can I defer my Knight-Hennessy offer?
No. KHS does not defer admissions. If you’re selected and can’t enroll that year, you must reapply for your intended start year.
- I am a Stanford student already. Can I still apply?
If you are in your first year of a Stanford PhD program, yes — you may apply and start KHS in your second year. Otherwise, if you’re enrolled in a program before 2025, you’re not eligible for KHS for your current degree.
9. I am applying for another Stanford program. Can I apply for KHS too?
Yes! You can apply for a new full-time graduate program at Stanford starting in 2026 and apply to KHS simultaneously.
10. Can I combine KHS with other fellowships?
Some Stanford fellowships are compatible with Knight-Hennessy (like SGF, ARCS, and RAISE), but others (like CCSRE or Shoucheng Zhang Fellowships) are not. Make sure to check with the program before applying.
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