Fully Funded John S. Knight (JSK) Journalism Fellowships 2025/2026 At Stanford University, USA: Apply Now!

About the John S. Knight (JSK) Journalism Fellowships

Applications are now open for the prestigious and fully funded John S. Knight (JSK) Journalism Fellowships 2025/2026 at Stanford University, offering a transformative journey for experienced journalists from across the globe. Selected fellows will embark on a 9-month program designed to strengthen leadership skills, deepen their impact in journalism, and cultivate a supportive professional network. With a generous stipend and access to the diverse intellectual resources at Stanford, this fellowship provides the perfect setting for journalists eager to explore innovative solutions and lead change in a dynamic field.

The JSK Journalism Fellowships provides a unique opportunity that allows experienced journalists to take a break from their regular professional duties and immerse themselves in a program geared towards personal and professional growth. Launched with the intent of fostering a global community of journalistic leaders, the fellowship provides fellows with extensive resources, individual coaching, and mentorship to develop resilience and leadership capabilities essential in today’s media landscape.

Stanford University’s JSK Fellowship fosters a collaborative environment, bringing together journalists from diverse cultural backgrounds to explore effective strategies and innovations in journalism. The fellowships are structured to provide not only time and freedom but also a supportive network that encourages creative solutions to journalism’s most pressing challenges.

Eligibility Criteria

The JSK Journalism Fellowship is open to both U.S. and international journalists with at least five years of full-time professional experience in journalism. Eligible applicants include:

Journalists in news organizations: Those working within established media houses who are looking to contribute to the field with fresh perspectives and innovations.
Independent and freelance journalists: Freelancers who have demonstrated an impact in journalism and are looking to scale their influence or introduce groundbreaking practices.

Entrepreneurial journalists and journalism innovators: Those who have founded or worked with startups in journalism or have created new platforms and initiatives to address journalism’s challenges.

Note: Academic roles, public information, public relations, government employees, and journalists in trade or in-house publications are ineligible for this fellowship. Furthermore, the fellowship is not intended for those looking to fund book or reporting projects or those seeking a business accelerator experience.

Selection Criteria

Ideal candidates for the JSK Fellowships are those who:

Exhibit exceptional commitment to the values and future of journalism.
Demonstrate a passion for innovation in the field, with a clear focus on using journalism to address societal challenges.
Have an established track record of impactful work in journalism.

Show an interest in self-reflection and personal growth, willing to engage in a diverse, intellectually stimulating environment.

Expectations and Commitments for JSK Fellows

JSK Fellows are expected to fully commit to the fellowship, dedicating their time and attention to the program’s unique offerings. The fellowship has specific requirements to ensure that each fellow benefits maximally from the experience:

Full-time dedication: Fellows are expected to reside at Stanford for the academic year, from September to May, focusing entirely on the fellowship without engaging in other professional commitments.

Active engagement in cohort activities: Fellows will join weekly meetings with their cohort, biweekly one-on-one advisory sessions, and occasional JSK events. These meetings are designed to encourage collaboration, foster professional connections, and allow for shared learning among a network of peers.
Collaborative mindset: Fellows are expected to engage with individuals who bring varied ideas, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity strengthens the cohort experience, exposing fellows to innovative ways of thinking and problem-solving in journalism.
Public sharing of insights: Fellows are encouraged to publicly share their progress, discoveries, and ideas throughout the fellowship. This requirement fosters transparency, collaboration, and community learning within and beyond Stanford’s walls.

Benefits of the Fully Funded John S. Knight (JSK) Journalism Fellowships

The fellowships offer an array of benefits that support the holistic development of each fellow, ensuring they leave the program equipped to make meaningful contributions to journalism worldwide.

Financial Support:
- Stipend: Fellows receive a generous stipend of $125,000 for the duration of the fellowship, allowing them to focus entirely on the program without financial strain.
- Health Insurance: Stanford health insurance is provided for fellows, along with an additional supplement for dependents, ensuring peace of mind throughout the academic year.
- Stanford Tuition: All fellows receive a full tuition waiver for the fellowship year.
- Rental Assistance: Guidance and support are available to help fellows find and secure rental housing in the Stanford area, simplifying the relocation process.

Professional and Personal Development:
- Individual Coaching and Customized Workshops: Fellows gain access to individualized coaching, workshops, and training programs, each designed to foster resilience, leadership, and the ability to adapt to change.
- Meaningful Cohort Experience: The fellowship cohort is intentionally curated to include individuals from diverse backgrounds, providing opportunities for fellows to form enduring personal and professional relationships that extend well beyond the program.
- Stanford’s World-Class Resources: Fellows have the time and freedom to explore Stanford’s extensive academic and intellectual offerings, including lectures, classes, and events that align with their interests in journalism and related fields.
- JSK Alumni Network: As JSK fellows, graduates join a vast alumni network, giving them access to experienced mentors and a community of peers that can provide continued support, resources, and opportunities throughout their careers.
Exposure to Innovative Journalism Practices:
- Fellows will be involved in the latest discussions and explorations of journalism trends, ethics, technology, and strategies that help elevate journalism standards worldwide.
- Hands-on training with industry experts and peers helps fellows stay at the cutting edge of journalism, learning effective methods for addressing some of the most challenging issues in today’s media landscape.

How to Apply for the John S. Knight (JSK) Journalism Fellowships

To apply for the JSK Journalism Fellowships, candidates are required to complete the online application by December 4, 2024. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

Application Components:
- Resume/CV: A comprehensive overview of your academic and professional history, along with accomplishments that highlight your dedication to journalism.
- Personal Statement: A reflection of your commitment to journalism and why you seek to join the JSK Fellowship, focusing on how you intend to leverage this experience to contribute to the future of journalism.
- Letters of Recommendation: References from professionals who can speak to your journalistic impact, leadership abilities, and commitment to ethical journalism.
Evaluation:
- Applications are reviewed by the JSK selection panel, considering each candidate’s professional experience, leadership potential, and alignment with the fellowship’s goals.

To learn more about this exceptional opportunity, or to begin your application, visit the official JSK Journalism Fellowship website linked below. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your career and impact as a journalist while joining a global community of innovators and change-makers at Stanford University.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY