Fully Funded Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship 2025/26 At The University Of Michigan, USA: Apply Now!

About the Fully Funded Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship

The Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship 2025/26 at the University of Michigan offers a transformative, fully funded experience for journalists seeking to enhance their professional skills and knowledge. This prestigious fellowship is designed for accomplished journalists who wish to dedicate time to personal and professional growth. Fellows spend an academic year at the University of Michigan, utilizing its extensive resources to focus on journalism projects of their choosing.

During the fellowship, up to 20 journalists from diverse backgrounds will immerse themselves in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where they will be free from daily newsroom pressures to explore issues such as data-driven reporting, newsroom challenges, and the development of new journalistic ventures. The fellowship encourages professional development through academic engagement, workshops, and seminars. Journalists have the freedom to pursue topics that will influence their careers and impact the media landscape.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship 2025/26, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Journalism Experience:
- Applicants must have at least five years of professional journalism experience.
- They must currently be working in journalism, either with a news organization or as independent journalists.
Professional Scope:
- A wide variety of journalism professionals are encouraged to apply, including:
  - Reporters
  - Editors
  - Data experts
  - Visual journalists
  - Audio producers
  - Engagement specialists
  - Designers
  - Developers
  - Entrepreneurs
  - Organizational change agents
- If the applicant is not a full-time journalist, the majority of their work must be in journalism.

Ineligibility:
- Full-time academics, public relations writers, trade writers, lobbyists, public advocates, or individuals seeking a degree are not eligible to apply.
Citizenship:
- U.S. citizens must apply as U.S. applicants, regardless of where they work or for whom they work.
- Non-U.S. citizens must apply as international applicants, even if they work in the U.S. or for an American news organization.
- Green Card holders are considered international applicants, not U.S. citizens.

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship is highly competitive and thorough. It aims to assemble a diverse group of Fellows who bring a variety of journalistic experiences, specializations, and perspectives. Each year, the program selects up to six international journalists alongside ten to twelve U.S. journalists.

The fellowship selection process values diversity in:

Journalism specialty

Geographical region
Type and size of the news organizations represented by the applicants.

International finalists are typically interviewed in January and February to ensure enough time for visa processing once selections are made. U.S. finalists are interviewed in April.

Benefit of the Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship

The Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship 2025/26 offers a range of exclusive benefits to the selected journalists, including:

Eight-Month Immersive Experience:
- Fellows step away from daily newsroom responsibilities to focus on personal projects and long-term journalism goals.

Access to University Resources:
- Fellows can tap into the vast resources at the University of Michigan, including specialized faculty and research tools relevant to their work.
Private Seminars:
- Exclusive, off-the-record discussions with newsroom leaders, innovators, and journalism experts offer fresh insights into the profession’s evolving landscape.
Skill-Building Workshops:
- Workshops designed to sharpen journalistic skills, improve leadership abilities, and foster innovation in storytelling.

Stipend:
- Fellows receive a $85,000 stipend, paid monthly from August through April, ensuring financial stability throughout the program.
- An additional $5,000 relocation allowance is provided to cover moving expenses.

Health Insurance and Other Benefits:
- The fellowship covers health insurance, all required workshops, course auditing, and participation in all fellowship activities.
Relocation Support:
- Fellows receive individual relocation assistance, including help with finding suitable housing in Ann Arbor.
Family Participation:
- Spouses and partners are welcome to engage in fellowship activities and audit university courses, making the experience family-inclusive.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply for the Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship through the official application process by completing the online application form. The application must include all supporting documents, such as: