Deadline: December 1, 2025 (International) / February 1, 2026 (US Applicants)
Are you an experienced journalist seeking to deepen your skills, explore innovation, or take time to pursue a unique journalism project? The Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2026-2027 offer an exceptional opportunity to take your career to new heights — all while receiving a fully funded stipend and access to one of the world’s most respected journalism fellowship programmes at the University of Michigan.
About the Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2026-2027
The Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2026-2027 provide journalists with time and resources to work on a journalism project, refine their expertise, or explore new ideas in media innovation. Hosted by the University of Michigan’s Wallace House, the fellowship runs for eight months, from late August 2026 to April 2027, and brings together talented journalists from around the world.
During the fellowship year, participants design and pursue an individual project — this could range from an in-depth reporting initiative to a data-driven media venture or newsroom transformation idea. Fellows also enjoy access to the university’s world-class courses, faculty, workshops, and weekly seminars designed to foster professional growth and collaboration.
Fellowship Benefits
The Knight-Wallace Fellowships offer one of the most generous packages for journalists globally. Each fellow receives:
- A stipend of USD 85,000, disbursed monthly from August through April.
- An additional USD 5,000 relocation allowance to support moving expenses.
- Health insurance coverage for fellows.
- Auditing privileges for University of Michigan courses.
- Access to workshops, mentorship, and required fellowship activities.
- Relocation assistance and support in finding suitable housing.
- Opportunities for spouses or partners to audit courses and participate in fellowship activities.
This combination of financial support and academic resources ensures fellows can focus fully on their journalism projects and professional enrichment.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2026-2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Have a minimum of five years of professional journalism experience.
- Be actively working in journalism — this includes roles such as reporters, editors, producers, data journalists, photojournalists, or those involved in digital media, podcasting, and documentary production.
- Demonstrate a commitment to journalistic excellence and a clear project proposal that aligns with the fellowship’s goals.
- Not be engaged in full-time academic work, public relations, lobbying, or advocacy roles.
The fellowship welcomes applications from both U.S. and international journalists.
Application Categories
- U.S. Applicants: Must apply under the U.S. applicant track.
- International Applicants: Non-U.S. citizens should apply under the international category. Note that possession of a U.S. Green Card does not automatically qualify you for the U.S. track.
Application Deadlines
- International Applicants: December 1, 2025
- U.S. Applicants: February 1, 2026
Early preparation is strongly recommended to ensure your project proposal, references, and portfolio are ready before the deadline.
Why Apply for the Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2026-2027
This prestigious fellowship offers more than financial support — it provides an immersive experience designed to help journalists think deeply about their craft, explore innovative storytelling methods, and connect with peers from across the world. Past fellows have gone on to produce impactful projects, lead newsroom initiatives, and shape the future of journalism globally.
Whether you’re investigating an emerging issue, designing a media start-up, or exploring new storytelling formats, the Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2026-2027 give you the time, space, and guidance to make it happen.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should prepare their fellowship application online. Required documents typically include:
- A project proposal,
- A personal statement,
- Work samples, and
- Letters of recommendation.
Successful candidates will be notified after the selection process concludes in early 2026.
👉 Read more about the Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2026-2027 here
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