Wallace House at the University of Michigan is accepting applications for the Knight-Wallace Fellowships 2027–2028. It’s one of the best-known fellowships for working journalists: an academic year in Ann Arbor, USA to take a break from deadlines, study across the university and pursue a research project. Each year, up to six international journalists join a group of 10–12 US journalists.
Deadline for international journalists (anyone without a US passport): 1 December 2026. US applicants have until 1 February 2027. International applications submitted through the US portal won’t be considered.
At a Glance
| Host | Wallace House Center for Journalists, University of Michigan |
| Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA |
| Duration | Academic year, from late August 2027 |
| Places | Up to 6 international fellows (plus 10–12 US fellows) |
| Who can apply | Working journalists from any country |
| International deadline | 1 December 2026 |
| Decisions | Offers to international fellows by mid-February 2027 |
Benefits
- A full academic year at the University of Michigan, with the chance to audit courses across the university
- Time to pursue a project you choose, away from daily deadlines
- Seminars and workshops at Wallace House with leading journalists and experts
- A close community of US and international journalists, and a lifelong alumni network
- A stipend and relocation support. Several listings report US$85,000 plus US$5,000 for relocation, along with health insurance. Wallace House’s public pages didn’t confirm these amounts, so check them with Wallace House.
Eligibility
- You must be a working journalist, either on staff at a news organisation or independent.
- Listings report that applicants need at least five years of journalism experience.
- International applicants are those without a US passport. You must apply through the international application.
- Fellows are expected to arrive in Ann Arbor by mid-August 2027 and stay for the full academic year.
How to Apply
- Read the international applicant guidance on the Wallace House website.
- Complete phase one of the international application on Wallace House’s online application platform (OpenWater) by 1 December 2026.
- Shortlisted applicants are invited to a phase two submission, because international fellows need extra information.
- Offers to international fellows are made by mid-February 2027.
Official Knight-Wallace page for international applicants · Application FAQs
Tips for African Journalists
- Use the international portal. Applications sent through the US portal are rejected.
- Pitch a clear, useful project, such as investigating corruption, climate reporting, press freedom or sustainable newsrooms in Africa.
- Show your track record with strong clips and evidence of impact.
- Watch Wallace House’s applicant webinars before you submit.
