WPI Fellowship Program 2026 is now inviting young journalists and media professionals to apply for the 2026 program. This prestigious fellowship with The World Press Institute (WPI) offers an intensive, nine-week professional experience in the United States, designed to strengthen journalism skills, global understanding, and professional networks.
Selected fellows will travel to the United States between August and November 2026 to participate in a demanding, cross-country program that begins and ends in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. The program provides firsthand exposure to U.S. journalism, media institutions, public affairs, and civic life.
Application Timeline
- Application opens: December 1, 2025
- Application closes: February 15, 2026
- Selection announcement: May 2026
Benefits of the Fellowship
Successful applicants will receive:
- A fully funded nine-week professional program in the United States
- International exposure to leading U.S. media organizations, institutions, and experts
- Opportunities to strengthen journalistic, analytical, and storytelling skills
- Cross-cultural exchange and learning with peers from around the world
- Long-term access to a global alumni network of journalists and media leaders
- Enhanced professional credibility and career advancement opportunities
What You Need to Apply
To complete the online application, applicants must prepare the following:
- User account: Create a username and password and validate your account via the confirmation email.
- Work samples: Three publicly accessible samples of your work (e.g. articles, videos, audio, or multimedia). These may be hosted on media websites or platforms such as YouTube or Dropbox.
- Photo: A high-resolution, color head-and-shoulders photo against a plain background, suitable for print.
- References: Names and valid email addresses of three referees who will submit online letters of recommendation.
Applicants must complete the application online and may save their progress and return to it multiple times before the deadline. It is important to:
- Validate your account before starting the application.
- Save your work frequently to avoid losing information.
- Contact your referees in advance to confirm their availability and email addresses.
- Monitor the submission of reference letters through your application dashboard.
Do not mark your application as complete until all sections are finished and referee details are confirmed. Once submitted, the application and references are treated as confidential.
Additional Information
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and detailed guidelines on the WPI website before applying.
This opportunity is ideal for motivated young professionals seeking international exposure, advanced journalistic experience, and global networks.
The 2026 WPI Fellowship Program offers young journalists a fully funded, nine-week professional experience in the United States, providing hands-on exposure to U.S. media, skill development, global networking, and long-term career growth. Applications open on December 1, 2025 and close on February 15, 2026.
