The World Press Institute (WPI) Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded, nine-week immersive program in the United States for experienced international journalists. Each year, WPI selects a small cohort of top journalists to provide them with firsthand insight into the American media landscape, culture, and the principles of a free press. The program involves travel across the U.S., with meetings and briefings with media professionals, policymakers, and business leaders.
Program Benefits
- Fully Funded: The fellowship covers all associated costs, including:
- Roundtrip airfare to the United States.
- All travel and lodging within the U.S. during the program.
- A daily stipend for meals and personal expenses.
- Immersive Experience: Fellows travel across the country, from the Midwest to major hubs like New York City and Washington D.C., to explore diverse social fabrics and political intricacies.
- High-Level Access: Participants engage directly with leading journalists, media executives, government officials, and policy experts.
- Professional Development: The program focuses on urgent themes shaping modern journalism, such as the impact of AI, innovative business models, and navigating polarized political climates.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Experience: Have at least five years of full-time employment in print, broadcast, or online journalism. This includes roles such as reporters, editors, photojournalists, editorial cartoonists, and producers.
- Current Employment: Must be currently employed as a non-U.S. journalist working outside of the United States.
- Exclusions: Individuals working in public relations or for organizations whose primary business is not media are not eligible.
- Language: Must be fluent in both written and spoken English.
- Leadership: Must demonstrate leadership potential.
Application Process
- Application Period: Applications for the 2026 fellowship will be open from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026.
- Program Dates: The fellowship will take place in the late summer and fall of 2026.
- Notification: The selected cohort will be announced in May 2026.
Application Link:
The application portal will open on December 1, 2025. Please refer to the official WPI website for the application form and detailed instructions.
