Stanford University is currently accepting applications for the John S. Knight (JSK) Journalism Fellowships for the 2026–2027 cohort. This prestigious fellowship enables journalists to step away from day-to-day demands and spend a nine-month academic year reimagining journalism’s future.
During the fellowship, participants will join a global cohort and concentrate on strengthening leadership, building resilience, experimenting with new approaches, and developing strategies that reinforce journalism’s role in vibrant democratic societies.
Fellowship Focus
Fellows are encouraged to propose a specific theme or project to guide their year. Possible areas of focus include (but are not limited to):
- Enhancing particular skills or competencies in journalism
- Addressing challenges facing their news organizations or communities
- Launching or refining a media-related venture
- Deepening expertise in a specific subject or coverage area
Throughout the year, fellows will:
- Receive $130,000 in stipend support
- Be fully integrated into Stanford’s academic, intellectual, and creative ecosystems
- Enjoy access to the JSK alumni network and ongoing mentoring
- Benefit from tailored coaching, workshops, and peer learning
- Have tuition and health insurance covered (with supplemental support for dependents)
- Receive guidance on housing and local logistics
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Experience: At least five years of professional work experience (note: contributions as a student or intern do not count toward this threshold).
- Journalistic engagement: While a degree or traditional newsroom experience is not mandatory, the majority of the applicant’s work must be in journalism.
- Open role types: The fellowship welcomes working journalists, independent journalists, media entrepreneurs, strategists, and innovators.
Fellowship Expectations
- Fellows must reside at Stanford full-time from September through May
- Engage fully in program activities, including weekly cohort sessions and regular coaching
- Participate in JSK and Stanford events
- Share insights publicly and contribute to the cohort experience
- Collaborate respectfully across diverse perspectives
Application Process
To apply:
- Indicate whether you qualify for the U.S. or international fellowship track
- Complete an online application covering your background, career goals, your proposed fellowship plan, and how it aligns with the JSK mission
- Submit supporting materials:
- A short (≈1 minute) “selfie video” outlining your journalism ambitions
- A current resume
- A work sample
- Contact information for three professional references
Application Deadline: December 3, 2025
For additional details or to begin your application, visit the official JSK application portal and the JSK program website.https://jsk.smapply.org/
