The Tarbell Fellowship 2027–2028 is now open for applications. This one-year paid fellowship supports journalists and AI subject-matter experts who want to report on artificial intelligence at leading partner newsrooms.
The program begins with a three-month remote AI journalism training course and a weeklong in-person summit. After that, fellows move into a nine-month newsroom placement. Salaries for fellows range from $75,000 to $120,000; senior fellows receive $115,000 to $135,000.
Application Deadline:
22 November 2026
Tell Me About The Program:
The Tarbell Fellowship (2027–2028) is a one-year professional program designed for journalists and subject-matter experts (such as AI governance or machine learning researchers) interested in covering artificial intelligence. The program consists of a three-month remote training course covering AI and journalism fundamentals, a weeklong in-person summit with travel and accommodation covered, and a nine-month newsroom placement as a reporter at leading media outlets. Past host newsrooms have included CBS News, The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, MIT Technology Review, TIME Magazine, The Guardian, and The Verge.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Journalism, Artificial Intelligence, AI Governance, Machine Learning, Science & Technology Communication, Mass Communication, and Public Policy.
Type:
Full-Time Professional Fellowship / Newsroom Placement
Who can Apply?
- Background: Open to both journalists (early- to mid-career looking to deepen AI knowledge) and AI/tech subject-matter experts (seeking a career transition into journalism).
- Core Competencies: Excellent writing capabilities, strong analytical and research skills, curiosity, open-mindedness, and the resilience to work under tight newsroom deadlines.
- Senior Fellows Track: Candidates with 7+ years of professional experience and an exceptional track record in journalism or AI are eligible for Senior Fellow positions.
- Work Authorization: Primarily geared towards applicants with the right to work in partner newsroom locations (though visa sponsorship may be explored on an exceptional basis depending on partner outlet approval).
- Commitment: Full-time commitment (cannot be undertaken concurrently with a graduate degree or another training program).
How are Applicants Selected:
Selection follows a multi-stage evaluation process:
- Initial Application & Writing Samples: Submission of CV, short essay answers, and 1 to 3 writing samples.
- Work Test: A 3-to-5-hour practical task testing newsroom skills and AI reporting capabilities.
- Interviews: Interviews with the Tarbell team followed by placement interviews with potential host newsrooms.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Global (applicants must possess work authorization for host newsroom locations or be eligible for host outlet sponsorship).
Where will the Program be Taken?
Hybrid model: Remote 3-month coursework, weeklong in-person summit, followed by 9-month in-person or hybrid newsroom placements in partner cities (including London, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, Washington D.C., and Hong Kong).
How Many Fellows:
Select annual cohort across standard and senior fellowship tracks.
What is the Benefit of the Program:
- Stipend/Salary:
- Standard Fellows: $75,000 – $120,000 USD per year (depending on experience and location cost of living).
- Senior Fellows: $115,000 – $135,000 USD per year.
- Summit Coverage: Fully funded travel and accommodation for the weeklong in-person Fellowship Summit.
- Career Development: Hands-on reporting mentorship, custom curriculum, guest lectures, and portfolio building at major global news outlets.
How Long Will it Last:
1 year total (3-month remote training + 9-month newsroom placement from June 2027 to May 2028, with possibility of placement extension for a second year).
How to Apply:
- Complete the online application form on the Tarbell Fellowship website.
- Upload your CV, complete short-answer questions, and provide 1 to 3 writing samples.
- Submit your application before 22 November 2026.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
