Knight Hennessy Scholarship 2026 Stanford University USA
This is a popular and completely free scholarship program in America. It is given by the famous Stanford University. It gives intelligent children from all over the world the opportunity to study any major degree like Masters or PhD at Stanford for free. Their goal is to create intelligent leaders who are from different fields and can solve the world's big problems together. Every year, about 100 very good students are selected for this scholarship.
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1. What Will You Get from the Knight Hennessy Scholarship? (Benefits)
This scholarship is completely free, meaning that Stanford University itself will bear most of your expenses:
- Your entire Masters or PhD tuition fee, absolutely free.
- You will receive a good amount of money each month for living expenses (such as rent, food, etc.). (Last year it was about $40,000 per year, this year it may even increase slightly).
- You may also receive some money for living in a hostel etc. at Stanford.
- You will receive a round-trip airfare to and from Stanford each year.
- Your health will be insured during your studies at Stanford, meaning that if you get sick, the cost of treatment will be covered by the scholarship.
- This includes books, course materials, and some help with your personal expenses.
Special Leadership Program
This scholarship does not only provide money, but also provides you with specific leadership training. You will have the opportunity to participate in workshops, receive mentorship from experienced people, and work closely with other brilliant scholars.
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2. Who Can Apply? (Requirements)
The following requirements must be met for the Knight Hennessy Scholarship:
- This scholarship is open to students from all countries of the world.
- Your academic record should be very good. Your previous degree (bachelor's or master's) should have very good grades.
- You received your first bachelor's degree in January 2019 or later. (If you have served in the military, you can get a 2-year exemption, meaning that even if you have a degree after January 2017, it will still work).
- You must be admitted to a master's or PhD-level program at Stanford University. This scholarship is only for major degree programs at Stanford.
- You must meet Stanford University’s English language requirements (such as good scores on the IELTS or TOEFL), unless you get a waiver.
They look for students who have three specific qualities:
- Independent Thinking: Those who have big, innovative ideas and strive to make them a reality.
- Good Leadership: Those who can lead others well and work to solve big problems.
- Sense of Community: Those who want to help others and are interested in making the world a better place.
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Important:
You must apply separately for the Knight Hennessy Scholarship and for the Stanford University Masters or PhD program you want to attend. You must be accepted to both before you will receive the scholarship.
3. How to Apply?
The entire application process for the Knight Hennessy Scholarship is done online and involves two main applications:
a. Knight Hennessy Scholarship Application:
- Go to the Online Website: Create an account by visiting the Knight-Hennessy Scholars website.
- Fill Out the Form: Complete the online form, which includes your education, work experience, and other information.
Prepare the Necessary Documents:
- Previous Degrees: A transcript of all your previous degrees.
- Your CV/Resume: A maximum of two pages, which includes your education, achievements, and work experience.
- Personal Essays: You will be required to write two short essays, the topics of which may change each year. These will demonstrate your thinking, leadership, and goals.
- Answers to Short Questions: You will also be required to answer a few short questions.
- 2 Letters of Recommendation: Get letters from people who know you well and can speak to your leadership and academic abilities. These letters will be sent directly by your recommenders.
- A Video: A short (approximately 2 minutes) video in which you tell a little about yourself.
- Interview (if selected): If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to an interview at Stanford or online and some group activities.
b. Application to a Stanford Masters/PhD Program:
You must also apply for admission to
a Stanford Masters or PhD program at the same time as or before applying for
the Knight Hennessy Scholarship.
Each program has its own deadlines, documents, and admission requirements. You
should check the details of your preferred program on the Stanford University
website.
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4. Important Dates (for 2026)
- August 2025: Knight Hennessy Scholarship applications open online.
- October 8, 2025 (approx.): Knight Hennessy Scholarship Application Deadline. (This date is from last year, be sure to check the exact date on the Knight-Hennessy website!).
- December 2025 to January 2026 (Approximately): Deadlines for admission to various Stanford Masters/PhD programs (each program has its own specific dates, you will need to check on Stanford’s website).
- January/February 2026: Interviews (for those shortlisted).
- By the End of February 2026: Announcement of selected scholars.
- September 2026: Start studying at Stanford University.
5. Some Easy Tips for Success
- The application process is a long and arduous one. Start preparing at least 6 to 8 months in advance.
- Both the Knight Hennessy application and the Stanford application should be excellent. If either one is weak, it can be difficult.
- In your essays, CV, and letters of recommendation, clearly demonstrate what kind of leadership you have, how you want to make a positive impact on the world, and how different your thinking is.
- Get letters from people who know you well and can attest to your unique talents. Let them know well in advance and let them know the specifics of the scholarship.
- Choose the program at Stanford that best matches your goals and talents.
Conclusion
The Knight Hennessy Scholarship is a huge opportunity that could change your life. The competition is fierce, but if you have those unique qualities, then definitely give it a try!