Knight-Hennessy Scholars — Stanford University

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program is Stanford University's premier graduate fellowship, funded by a $750M endowment from Nike co-founder Phil Knight and former Stanford President John Hennessy.

Each cohort has ~100 scholars from across the world studying in any Stanford graduate school. Nepali students are eligible and have been selected in past cohorts.

Knight-Hennessy covers full tuition at any Stanford graduate program, a living stipend of roughly $50,000 per year (adjusted annually), and an academic/travel allowance. Funding lasts for up to three years of graduate study.

Beyond funding, scholars join the King Global Leadership Program — a multi-year leadership development experience with global travel, workshops, and a tight-knit cohort.

You must have completed your bachelor's degree no more than 7 years ago (with some exceptions). You must be applying to a Stanford graduate program for the same admission cycle — Knight-Hennessy is not a standalone admission.

There is no citizenship restriction — Nepali students apply on the same footing as U.S. citizens. The program looks for independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and civic mindset.

Submit two separate applications: one to Knight-Hennessy (due early October) and one to your target Stanford graduate program (deadline varies by school, usually November–January).

The Knight-Hennessy application includes essays, two letters of recommendation, video responses, and your CV. Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview round in Spring.

You must be admitted to your Stanford graduate program to receive the scholarship — Knight-Hennessy does not guarantee Stanford admission.