Deadline: December 4, 2025
Applications are now open for the Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme 2026, a prestigious opportunity offered by the Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI) in collaboration with the Al Jazeera Media Network (AJMN). The fellowship is designed to support journalists and media researchers in the Global South, helping them advance their work through research, innovation, and exposure to the newsroom culture of one of the world’s most respected media organisations.
The Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme 2026 focuses on promoting high-quality journalism, encouraging adaptation to modern technologies, and enriching journalistic content across developing regions. This initiative empowers journalists to explore contemporary issues, innovate within their craft, and contribute meaningfully to the evolution of media practice globally.
About the Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme 2026
The Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme is a unique opportunity that enables journalists and researchers to undertake an intensive research and newsroom experience at Al Jazeera’s headquarters. Participants will produce an in-depth 7,000-word research paper on a topic relevant to journalism, media innovation, or digital communication.
During the programme, fellows will engage with editors, reporters, and production teams across the Al Jazeera Media Network. This direct exposure allows participants to understand the workings of an international media organisation while developing skills essential for modern journalism.
The fellowship aims to:
- Contribute to the growth of high-quality journalism in the Global South.
- Support journalists in adopting new and emerging media technologies.
- Encourage innovation and research in the field of media and communication.
- Enhance the diversity and depth of journalistic content across different contexts.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- Be a working journalist or media researcher, either full-time or freelance, with a minimum of four years of professional experience in journalism or a media-related research role.
- Demonstrate strong research and writing skills and be fluent in English, both spoken and written.
- Applicants from non-Arab countries are eligible for the English-language track. Applicants from Arab countries may apply to the Arabic-language version of the fellowship.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents, preferably in PDF format:
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing professional and academic experience.
- A fellowship research proposal that includes:
- Title and area of interest
- Research objectives
- Methodology
- Abstract or summary of the intended study
- Three work samples in English showcasing the applicant’s journalistic or research expertise.
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant’s professional work and capabilities.
Incomplete applications or those missing any required documents will not be considered.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 4 December 2025
Applicants are advised to submit early to avoid last-minute technical difficulties and ensure a thorough review of their materials before submission.
Why Apply?
The Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme 2026 offers participants the chance to merge academic research with real-world newsroom experience. Fellows will gain valuable insight into international journalism while building their networks within a globally recognised media organisation.
Key benefits include:
- Access to Al Jazeera’s editorial, research, and production teams.
- The opportunity to conduct original, high-impact research in journalism and media.
- Enhanced visibility and credibility as a global media professional.
- A platform to contribute to the advancement of journalism in the Global South.
This fellowship is ideal for media professionals who are passionate about exploring the future of journalism, media innovation, ethics, and storytelling in a digital era.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Begin preparing your proposal early and choose a topic that aligns with global media trends or challenges faced by journalists in your region.
- Ensure that your three writing samples reflect originality, clarity, and relevance to the media field.
- Secure recommendation letters from reputable professionals who can attest to your experience and academic potential.
- Highlight in your proposal how your research will benefit journalism in your home country or region.
- Double-check that all documents are properly formatted and meet the fellowship’s submission guidelines.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official fellowship application portal. Ensure that all required documents are included and formatted as requested before submission.
Contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review.
