Applications are Open for Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2027–2028 at the University of Michigan: Explore Eligibility, Benefits and Application Deadlines

Overview

The Knight-Wallace Fellowships at the University of Michigan are a professional development programme hosted by the Wallace House Center for Journalists in Ann Arbor. The programme offers experienced journalists dedicated time and resources to pursue immersive study projects, strengthen professional skills, and examine challenges facing the journalism industry. Fellows participate in an in-person academic year beginning in late August 2027, with selected participants arriving in Ann Arbor by mid-August.

Who can apply

The programme is open to experienced professionals working in journalism for news organisations or as independent journalists, including reporters, editors, data specialists, visual journalists, audio producers, engagement specialists, designers, developers, entrepreneurs, and organisational change agents from the United States and around the world. Applicants must have at least five years of professional journalism experience, currently work in some aspect of journalism, and demonstrate that journalism represents the majority of their professional work if they are not full-time journalists. Public relations writers, internal trade writers, lobbyists, public advocates, and individuals seeking an academic degree are not eligible.

Requirements

Applicants must be prepared to participate in the in-person fellowship programme in Ann Arbor, maintain residency there throughout the programme, attend all seminars and scheduled events, and make the fellowship their primary professional focus. U.S. citizens must apply through the U.S. application portal regardless of where they work, and non-U.S. citizens must apply as international applicants even if employed by an American news organisation; permanent residency or a Green Card does not qualify an applicant as a U.S. citizen. U.S. journalists may also apply for the specialised Great Lakes Local News Fellowship through the general application process by addressing the specific focus and requirements in their application essays.

How to apply

Interested journalists should review the official application, fellowship frequently asked questions, and relevant preparation guidelines for either international or U.S. applications before completing the application form online through the OpenWater platform. Applicants must ensure they use the correct application portal matching their citizenship status.

Key dates

International applications are due by December 1, 2026, with international finalists interviewed during January and February 2027, and offers expected by mid-February 2027. U.S. applications are due by February 1, 2027, with U.S. finalists interviewed in April 2027, and offers expected by early May 2027.