Application Deadline: 13 February 2026, 23:59 (UK time)
Applications are currently open for the 2026/2027 edition of the University of Oxford Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship Programme. This internationally respected fellowship is designed for practising, mid-career journalists who wish to step away from their daily newsroom responsibilities to deepen their understanding of journalism and the evolving global media landscape.
Hosted by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford, the programme offers selected fellows the opportunity to engage in independent research, participate in academic seminars, attend professional networking events, and exchange ideas with journalists from around the world. Most participants receive full financial support, including funding for programme fees as well as a living and travel allowance.
During the fellowship period in Oxford, participants are expected to develop a professional project that contributes directly to their career growth, strengthens their newsroom, and adds value to the wider media industry. Fellows are encouraged to integrate insights gained from research and discussions into practical outcomes that can be applied after returning to work.
Requirements
To qualify for the fellowship, applicants must have at least five years of professional journalism experience or demonstrate equivalent expertise in exceptional cases. Freelance journalists are welcome to apply. However, individuals currently working in public relations, public affairs, or corporate communications are not eligible.
The programme is open to journalists from all regions, including Africa, Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, and Latin America. Applicants must intend to continue working in journalism after completing the fellowship.
While there is no formal English language test, candidates should be comfortable participating in academic discussions and professional activities conducted in English.
Benefits
Most selected fellows receive full funding for the programme. This includes coverage of tuition-related costs and a monthly stipend of £2,000 to support accommodation, meals, and daily living expenses in the UK.
The fellowship also pays for international travel and visa-related expenses. Participants are expected to focus fully on the programme and should not engage in professional work during the fellowship period.
Each year, approximately 30 journalists from different parts of the world are selected, bringing diverse perspectives and extensive professional experience to the institute.
Fellows become part of a leading research environment that influences global conversations on journalism and media innovation. The Reuters Institute is known for producing high-quality research on critical issues affecting the news industry.
Participants also benefit from being part of a globally connected academic community at the University of Oxford, one of the world’s most prestigious universities, with access to outstanding libraries, research facilities, and academic support.
Oxford’s location offers additional advantages, with London just one hour away by train, providing easy access to major international media organizations such as the BBC, The Guardian, and the Financial Times.
How to Apply
Journalists with at least five years of newsroom experience are eligible to apply for the Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship. Applicants are advised to review the frequently asked questions on the official fellowship webpage before submitting their application.
Required documents include:
A one-page project proposal outlining the topic you intend to research, the materials you plan to study, and the people or organizations you hope to engage with. This must be submitted as a PDF.
A short summary of your project idea of no more than 150 words.
A one-page personal statement explaining your motivation for applying, why you want to carry out your project at the Reuters Institute, and how you plan to use the project after returning to your newsroom. This should also be saved as a PDF.
A two-page curriculum vitae detailing your education and professional background. You may include links to published work. Submit as a PDF.
Two letters of recommendation from professional referees who are familiar with your work. Each letter should include the referee’s name, job title, relationship to you, and contact information, and should not exceed one page. These must also be submitted as PDFs.
Each uploaded document must not exceed 25 MB. Applications must be completed through the official online application portal. Incomplete submissions will not be reviewed.
For More Information
Visit the official website of the University of Oxford Reuters Institute Journalism Fellowship Programme for full details and application instructions.
