Deadline: February 18, 2026
Applications are open for the Allbritton Journalism Institute (AJI) Reporting Fellowship 2026-2028. AJI is a one-of-a-kind institution in Washington: a nonprofit educational organization that trains the political journalists of the future — and partners with NOTUS to accomplish that goal. Every September, AJI welcomes a cohort of early-career reporters to D.C. for a two-year fellowship.
The program begins with a four-week immersion course in the practical application of journalism skills, from ethics and newsgathering to writing and distribution. After four weeks, fellows balance ongoing classwork with hands-on experience: reporting and producing stories for NOTUS while honing their skills through seminars, weekly group critiques and staff mentorship. The formal program runs for 18 months, after which fellows are invited to stay for an additional six months as we support them in seeking their next opportunity. By the end of the program, graduates will have the background necessary to cover the inner workings of Washington — and will be ready to take on reporting jobs at the country’s best outlets.
Benefits
- In addition to participating in classroom training at AJI, fellows learn on the job at NOTUS, where they work as reporters and receive an annual salary of $60,000.
Eligibility
- They are looking for applicants of all backgrounds who want to work in journalism; who have a keen interest in policy and politics; and who believe journalism can and should play a critical role in democracy. Some fellows may be just out of school; others may be looking for a career transition; still others may be working journalists who are early in their careers.
- A passion for journalism is a prerequisite, but actual journalistic experience is not.
- All applicants must have U.S. work authorization in order to be eligible for this fellowship.
- AJI fellows are not eligible for employment-based visa sponsorship.
Application
Applications are due February 18, 2026 at 11:59pm ET. The program will begin in September 2026.
For more information, visit AJI Reporting Fellowship.
