The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program at Stanford University is one of the most prestigious and competitive global scholarship opportunities available to graduate students.

Established in 2016, this program aims to develop a community of future global leaders to address complex challenges through collaboration and innovation.Program Overview

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program provides full funding for up to three years of graduate study at Stanford University.

Scholars can pursue any graduate degree program offered at Stanford, from PhDs to professional degrees across all seven schools.

In addition to financial support, scholars benefit from:

Leadership development programming
Mentorship opportunities
Experiential learning through immersive experiences
A diverse, multidisciplinary community of peers

The program seeks to cultivate transformational leadership skills to empower scholars to create positive change on a global scale.

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Eligibility Requirements

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To be eligible for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program for 2025 enrollment, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Apply to enroll in a full-time Stanford graduate degree program
Have earned a bachelor’s degree by September 2025
Meet the admission requirements for their specific Stanford graduate program

There are no age restrictions or required minimum GPAs. The program welcomes applicants from all countries and backgrounds.

Applicants who have already begun graduate studies at Stanford are not eligible, with the exception of current Stanford medical or law students applying for a complementary degree.

Application Process

The application for 2025 enrollment will open in July 2024 and close on October 9, 2024 at 1:00 PM Pacific Time. The process involves two separate but related applications:

Knight-Hennessy Scholars application
Application to the desired Stanford graduate degree program

Both applications must be submitted by their respective deadlines for consideration. The Knight-Hennessy application typically opens earlier and has an earlier deadline than most Stanford graduate programs.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars Application Components

The KHS application consists of the following required elements:

Online application form
Resume/CV (2 pages maximum)
Two short essays (600 words each)
Two short answers (150 words each)
Video submission (2 minutes)
Two letters of recommendation
Academic transcripts
Test scores (if required by graduate program)

Stanford Graduate Program Application

Applicants must separately apply to and be accepted by their desired Stanford graduate program. Each program has its own application requirements and deadlines.

Selection Criteria

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program evaluates candidates based on three primary criteria:

Independence of ThoughtDemonstrates mental sharpness and intellectual ability
Seeks out knowledge and new experiences
Forms independent opinions and beliefs
Purposeful LeadershipInspires and empowers others
Brings humility and kindness to leadership roles
Takes initiative and motivates positive change
Civic MindsetShows concern for community wellbeing
Committed to public service and social impact
Understands global challenges and opportunities

The selection process also considers applicants’ potential to thrive in and contribute to the diverse, multidisciplinary KHS community.

Funding Details

Knight-Hennessy Scholars receive funding for up to three years of graduate study at Stanford. The scholarship covers:

Tuition and fees
Living stipend
Travel allowance
Academic supplies

Scholars pursuing degrees longer than three years (e.g. MD or PhD programs) receive KHS funding for three years and are then supported through standard departmental funding packages for the remainder of their program.

Application Tips

To create a compelling application for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program, consider the following tips:

Start early: Begin preparing months in advance to allow time for reflection and revision.
Showcase your unique perspective: Highlight experiences and insights that demonstrate your distinctive worldview and potential for leadership.
Demonstrate impact: Provide concrete examples of how you’ve made a difference in your communities or field of study.
Align with program values: Show how your goals and experiences resonate with the KHS mission of collaborative leadership and global impact.
Be authentic: Present your genuine self rather than trying to fit a perceived mold of the “ideal” scholar.
Seek feedback: Have mentors, peers, or writing centers review your essays and overall application.
Practice for the video component: Prepare and rehearse your video submission to ensure clear, engaging delivery.
Research Stanford programs: Demonstrate informed interest in your chosen graduate program and how it aligns with your goals.

Key Dates for 2025 Cohort

Mark your calendars for these important dates in the 2025 application cycle:

July 2024: KHS application opens
October 9, 2024 at 1:00 PM PT: KHS application deadline
January 2025: Finalists notified and invited to remote interviews
February 2025: Immersion Weekend for finalists (if conditions allow)
March 2025: Scholars notified of selection results

Note that Stanford graduate program deadlines vary and may be earlier than the KHS deadline. Be sure to check specific program websites for their application timelines.

Preparing a Competitive Application

To maximize your chances of selection, focus on developing and articulating these key areas:

1. Leadership Experience

Highlight leadership roles in academic, professional, or extracurricular settings
Demonstrate how you’ve inspired and empowered others
Showcase your ability to collaborate and work effectively in teams

2. Academic Excellence

Maintain strong grades in challenging courses
Pursue research opportunities or independent projects
Seek out academic awards or recognition in your field

3. Global Perspective

Engage in international experiences (study abroad, work, volunteering)
Demonstrate understanding of global issues relevant to your field
Show how you’ve bridged cultural or disciplinary divides

4. Innovation and Creativity

Highlight instances where you’ve developed novel solutions or approaches
Showcase any entrepreneurial ventures or creative projects
Demonstrate your ability to think outside the box and challenge conventions

5. Community Impact

Engage in meaningful volunteer work or community service
Show how you’ve addressed social issues or challenges in your community
Demonstrate a commitment to creating positive change

6. Interdisciplinary Interests

Highlight experiences that bridge multiple disciplines
Show how you integrate diverse perspectives in your work or studies
Demonstrate curiosity and engagement beyond your primary field

7. Personal Growth

Reflect on challenges you’ve overcome and lessons learned
Show how you’ve developed resilience and adaptability
Demonstrate self-awareness and a commitment to continuous improvement

Crafting Compelling Essays

The essays are a crucial component of your Knight-Hennessy Scholars application. Here are some strategies for writing impactful essays:

Tell your story: Use anecdotes and specific examples to bring your experiences to life.
Connect past, present, and future: Show how your background has shaped your goals and how the KHS program fits into your vision.
Be specific about Stanford: Explain why your chosen graduate program at Stanford is the ideal next step for you.
Address the selection criteria: Weave examples throughout your essays that demonstrate independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and civic mindset.
Show, don’t tell: Instead of simply stating qualities, provide concrete examples that illustrate them.
Be concise: With strict word limits, make every word count. Avoid repetition and focus on your most compelling points.
Seek feedback: Have others review your essays for clarity, impact, and adherence to the prompts.

Leveraging Letters of Recommendation

Strong letters of recommendation can significantly enhance your application. Consider these tips:

Choose recommenders wisely: Select individuals who know you well and can speak to your potential as a leader and scholar.
Provide context: Brief your recommenders on the KHS program and selection criteria.
Suggest specific examples: Remind recommenders of key experiences or achievements they might highlight.
Request early: Give recommenders ample time to craft thoughtful letters.
Follow up: Politely check in to ensure letters are submitted on time.

Making the Most of the Video Statement

The 2-minute video statement is a unique opportunity to bring your application to life. Consider these approaches:

Be yourself: Authenticity is more important than production value.
Practice, but don’t over-rehearse: Aim for a natural, conversational tone.
Use the time wisely: Focus on aspects of yourself not fully captured in other application components.
Consider your setting: Choose a location that reflects your personality or interests.
Test your technology: Ensure good audio and video quality before recording.

After Applying

After submitting your application, here’s what to expect:

Confirmation: You’ll receive an email confirming receipt of your application.
Application review: A selection committee will review all complete applications.
Finalist notification: If selected as a finalist, you’ll be invited to participate in remote interviews in January 2025.
Immersion Weekend: Finalists may be invited to Stanford for an in-person weekend in February 2025, if conditions allow.
Final decisions: Scholars will be notified of selection results in March 2025.
Graduate program decisions: Remember that admission to KHS is contingent on acceptance to your Stanford graduate program.

Conclusion

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program offers an unparalleled opportunity for future global leaders to pursue graduate education at Stanford University.

By thoroughly understanding the program’s mission, carefully preparing each application component, and authentically showcasing your unique experiences and potential, you can present a compelling case for your selection.

Remember that the application process itself is a valuable exercise in self-reflection and goal-setting.

Regardless of the outcome, engaging deeply with the KHS application can provide clarity on your aspirations and path forward as a leader in your field.

For the most up-to-date information and to begin your application, visit the official Knight-Hennessy Scholars website:

CLICK TO APPLY

Good luck with your application!

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