Applications are now open for the University of Oxford Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship Programme 2026/2027, one of the world’s most prestigious fully funded fellowships for mid-career journalists.
Hosted by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford, this programme allows experienced journalists to step away from daily newsroom demands and spend time reflecting, researching, and strengthening their impact on the global media landscape.
Each year, around 30 journalists from across the world are selected to join the fellowship, most of whom receive full funding plus a monthly stipend to cover living and travel expenses in the UK.
About the Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship
The Journalism Fellowship Programme is designed for practising journalists who want to explore journalism in depth, examine the future of news, and work on a research project that has direct relevance to their career, newsroom, and the wider media industry.
Fellows spend their time at Oxford engaging in:
- Independent research on a journalism-related project
- Seminars and workshops on media, technology, and public trust
- Networking events with global journalists, academics, and media leaders
- Peer discussions with an international cohort of experienced reporters
By the end of the fellowship, participants produce a project that contributes meaningfully to debates about journalism and media practice worldwide.
Fellowship Duration and Location
- Academic Year: 2026/2027
- Location: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Host Institution: Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism
- Number of Fellows: Approximately 30 journalists annually
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have a minimum of five years’ professional journalism experience (or equivalent expertise in rare cases)
- Be a practising journalist working in newsrooms or as a freelancer
- Freelancers are eligible
- Applicants working in public relations, public affairs, or corporate communications are not eligible
- Be willing to return to journalism after completing the fellowship
- Be able to participate fully in discussions conducted in English
- Open to journalists from all regions, including Africa, Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, and Latin America
Fellowship Benefits
Most selected fellows receive full financial support, which includes:
- Full coverage of programme fees
- Monthly stipend of £2,000 to cover accommodation, food, and living costs
- Travel to and from the UK
- Visa costs are fully covered
- Access to Oxford’s world-class libraries, research centres, and academic resources
Fellows are expected to refrain from professional work during the fellowship period to focus fully on their research and learning experience.
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Why Apply for the Reuters Institute Fellowship?
As a fellow, you will:
- Be part of a globally respected research institute shaping media debates
- Learn alongside journalists from diverse countries and media systems
- Gain insight into challenges facing journalism, including trust, technology, and sustainability
- Build a powerful international professional network
- Study at one of the world’s leading universities
- Enjoy proximity to London, just one hour away by train, with access to major media organisations such as the BBC, The Guardian, and the Financial Times
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents via the online application portal:
- One-page project statement (PDF)
- Outline the research idea you plan to work on during the fellowship
- 150-word project summary
- One-page motivation statement (PDF)
- Explain why you want the fellowship, why Oxford is the right place, and how the project will benefit your journalism career
- Two-page CV (PDF)
- Include career history, education, and optional links to published work
- Two letters of reference (PDF)
- Each referee must include their full name, job title, relationship to you, and contact details
Important:
- The maximum file size is 25 MB per document
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
How to Apply
If you have more than five years of professional journalism experience and want to deepen your impact on the media industry:
- Review the Fellowship Programme FAQs on the official website
- Prepare all required documents in PDF format
- Submit your application through the online application portal
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the University of Oxford Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 is February 13, 2026, 23:59 (UK time).
For full details, deadlines, and application guidelines, visit the official webpage of the University of Oxford Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship Programme.
APPLY FOR THE REUTERS INSTITUTE JOURNALISM FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME
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