John S. Knight Journalism Fellowships 2027-2028 open with $135,000 stipend
Applications open in October 2026 for the John S. Knight Journalism Fellowships 2027-2028, offering a $135,000 stipend for a nine-month residency at Stanford University. The deadline for U.S. journalists is December 2, 2026.
The John S. Knight Journalism Fellowships 2027-2028 provide a $135,000 stipend for a nine-month fellowship at Stanford University. Applications for the program open in October 2026, with a strict deadline of December 2, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time for U.S. journalists.
The nine-month JSK Fellowship requires full-time residency at Stanford from September through May. Fellows must attend weekly cohort meetings and biweekly individual coaching sessions. Participation in occasional JSK and Stanford events is expected. The program mandates that fellows share their insights and reflections publicly. Collaboration with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives is a core requirement.
Financial and academic support
Fellows receive comprehensive financial and academic support. The $135,000 stipend is supplemented by Stanford tuition coverage and health insurance. A dependent health supplement is available for eligible dependents enrolled in Stanford coverage. The program explicitly states it does not fund books or reporting projects. It is not a startup accelerator.
Eligibility and application process
Applicants need at least five years of professional experience. A college degree or traditional newsroom experience is not required. Eligibility extends to those directly involved in producing journalistic content. Professionals working in operations or strategy roles within news organizations also qualify. Those working with organizations that support or collaborate directly with journalists are eligible.
No extensions or late applications are accepted. The December 2 deadline is strict. Application steps involve visiting the JSK portal, creating an account, and completing the online form. Applicants are urged to review their submission carefully before the cutoff. "Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying," said Global South Opportunities (GSO).
Additional opportunities and expectations
Beyond the stipend, fellows gain access to individualized coaching and customized workshops. They join the global JSK alumni network. The program offers advice on finding rental housing and settling into the Stanford area for fellows and their families. Fellows are expected to use their time to explore Stanford’s wide array of academic and creative offerings.
All application materials must be submitted via the official JSK portal before the December 2, 2026, 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time deadline.
