Stigler Center Journalists In Residence Program 2026 Offers Journalists An Unmatched Fellowship Opportunity For Growth -

About the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026

The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business is designed to foster the next generation of global business journalists. Established in 2017, the program provides journalists with a transformative academic and professional experience, enabling them to deepen their understanding of political economy, markets, and regulatory issues while gaining access to world-class faculty and scholars.

This 12-week fully funded residency takes place at the Hyde Park campus in Chicago, USA, and immerses participants in rigorous academic coursework, exclusive seminars, and collaborative opportunities with peers from around the world. Journalists gain first-hand exposure to cutting-edge research, strengthen their analytical skills, and build a powerful international network to enhance their reporting on complex economic and financial topics.

Eligible Fields

The program is open to journalists working across all forms of media, including:

Print journalism (newspapers, magazines, journals)
Broadcast journalism (television and radio reporters, producers, anchors)
Online journalism (news websites, digital magazines, blogs)
Multimedia and investigative journalism
Business, economics, political, and financial reporting in any medium

There are no restrictions regarding specific subject beats, as long as applicants have a demonstrated interest in understanding political economy, markets, regulation, and public policy.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026, applicants must:

Be professional journalists with at least several years of experience in the media industry.
Have proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
Demonstrate a strong interest in expanding their knowledge of political economy, regulation, and market dynamics.
Be available to spend 12 consecutive weeks in Chicago, USA, during the program.
Submit all required application materials through the online portal by October 1, 2025, 11:59 p.m. CT (Chicago time).

Non-native English speakers may need to provide proof of English proficiency, unless they have completed a degree at an English-language institution or have extensive English-language work experience.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are selected based on the following considerations:

Professional experience in journalism and quality of previous work.
Demonstrated interest in topics related to political economy, business, and regulation.
Clarity of personal statements regarding how the program will help achieve professional goals.
Recommendations from respected editors, colleagues, or mentors validating the applicant’s professional abilities and potential.
English proficiency, assessed through submitted documents or prior academic/work history.

A selection committee comprising University of Chicago faculty and Stigler Center leadership will review applications. Only complete and competitive applications will be considered.

Eligible Countries

The program is open to journalists worldwide without geographic restrictions. Applicants from both developed and emerging economies are strongly encouraged to apply.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the following documents via the official online application portal:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining professional experience.
Personal statements detailing interest in the program and professional goals.
Two letters of recommendation from editors, managers, or colleagues.
Three published news articles (with English translations if not originally in English).
- For TV or radio journalists: include video/audio links in a document with English transcriptions.
Proof of English proficiency (if applicable), such as TOEFL/IELTS scores, work experience in an English-speaking office, or a letter from an employer affirming language skills.

Note: Materials submitted by email, social media, or any channel other than the online portal will not be accepted.

Benefits of the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026

Participants receive a comprehensive fellowship package that includes:

$14,000 stipend to cover living expenses during the 12-week residency (subject to up to 14% tax withholding for international fellows).
Economy-class round-trip airfare to and from Chicago, plus reimbursement for SEVIS and visa fees.
Full participation in academic coursework at one of the world’s top business schools.
Access to seminars, workshops, and events hosted by the Stigler Center and Chicago Booth faculty.
Designated study space and collaboration opportunities with Booth students and faculty.
Opportunity to write for the ProMarket publication, enhancing global visibility.
Certificate of participation upon successful completion of the program.

How to Apply

Visit the official Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program application portal.
Complete the online application form and upload all required documents (CV, personal statements, recommendations, published work, proof of English proficiency if required).
Submit the application no later than October 1, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT (Chicago time).
Await confirmation and follow any additional instructions regarding interviews or next steps.

Final Thoughts

The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity to sharpen journalistic expertise, deepen understanding of political economy, and build an international professional network. For 12 weeks in Chicago, fellows receive not only financial support but also an immersive academic experience that can transform their reporting careers. If you are an ambitious journalist ready to take your knowledge and impact to the next level, this program is your gateway to becoming a globally recognized voice in economic and business journalism.