Spencer Education Journalism Fellowship 2027–2028 at Columbia University: Receive Up to $85,000 in Funding to Produce Impactful Education Journalism Projects

Overview

The Spencer Education Journalism Fellowship is hosted at Columbia Journalism School in the United States and runs for one academic year. The programme is dedicated to strengthening public understanding of education by supporting individuals who want to investigate important issues affecting schools, students, families, education systems, and society. Selected participants work on ambitious, research-driven journalism projects that can be developed into books, magazine articles, documentaries, podcasts, and other forms of reporting intended for general audiences.

Who can apply

Applicants must be United States citizens or permanent residents holding a green card. The programme is particularly suitable for experienced journalists who report on education or related social issues, as well as educators who have developed experience in journalism and storytelling. There is no requirement to hold a particular academic qualification. Applicants may choose between a residential arrangement, which requires living in New York City or its immediate vicinity, and a non-residential arrangement for those living anywhere within the United States who provide a brief explanation of genuine hardship in relocating.

What you get

Residential fellows receive a stipend of $85,000 for the fellowship year to support living expenses and gain access to Columbia University faculty mentorship, academic resources, and networking opportunities. Non-residential fellows receive a stipend of $43,000 and have their airfare and hotel expenses covered for required trips to New York City. Additionally, fellows receive a dedicated research and travel budget of $7,500.

Requirements

Applicants must submit their proposals for a research-driven journalism project. Non-residential applicants must also provide a brief explanation of why the non-residential arrangement is appropriate for their circumstances.

How to apply

Applications are submitted to the fellowship programme for the 2027–2028 cohort.

Key dates

The application deadline is February 4, 2027.