The New York Times Fellowship actively mentors and nurtures new journalists in the U.S. through its highly regarded, paid, one-year program based in New York City. This fellowship is all about shaping the next generation of journalists by giving them hands-on experience at The Times. Throughout the year, fellows attend speaker events, receive feedback, and participate in valuable training sessions. The program will support the fellow on their professional knowledge and skills on journalism sector.
The fellowship provides a paid stipend and other benefits to give early-career journalists direct access to editors, leaders, and mentors. Fellows gain real newsroom experience and have chances to work across different areas of journalism. The program selects 30 applicants each year to receive this fellowship. Applications for the 2025-2026 program are due by December 2, 2024.
Fellowship Summary
- Institution: The New York Times (New York City, USA); ranked among the top media institutions globally for journalism.
- Programs and Duration: One-year paid fellowship in fields like reporting, visual investigations, and audience engagement, ideal for recent graduates and early-career journalists.
Study Areas
The New York Times Fellowship offers a broad range of hands-on experiences across journalism, including:
- Reporting: Opportunities in political, cultural, or feature reporting.
- Visual Investigations: Skills in video, photojournalism, and multimedia storytelling.
- Audience Engagement: Learning to connect with readers through data-driven journalism and social media.
- Audio and Podcasts: Creating stories for audio formats.
- Editing: Experience in copy editing, multimedia editing, and editorial project management.
Benefits
- Monthly Stipend: Competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance and other standard NYT employee benefits.
- Base pay starts at $82,415.05 annually.
- Paid parental leave: up to 18 weeks for mothers, and 10 weeks for partners.
- NYT fellows receive training and mentorship, learning firsthand how everything operates in the newsroom.
Benefits not included:
This fellowship does not cover relocation costs.
Fellowship Eligibility
- Recent graduates or early-career journalists with some newsroom experience.
- Applicants must have authorization to work in the United States.
- Applicants to positions in London must have authorization to work in the United Kingdom.
- Demonstrated commitment to journalism and storytelling.
- The program primarily supports students of color and/or those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Strong preference for candidates who show excellence in cooperative work and journalistic ethics.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Resume: Detailing relevant journalism or media experience.
- Cover Letter: Discussing specific areas of interest within journalism and how the fellowship aligns with career goals.
- Work Samples/Portfolio: A selection of journalistic work (articles, multimedia projects, etc.) that highlights storytelling skills, accuracy, and ethics.
- Valid passport
- May required your Portfolio Link
Application Process:
- Prepare Required Documents
- Online Application Submission
- Meeting the Deadline
- Application Review: The selection commette will review your application. They will focus on qualifications, prior experience, and alignment with the program’s goals.
- If your name shows on shortlist, you may need to attend on interviews.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Adjust your cover letter to highlight relevant experience and specific interest areas within journalism.
- Include a portfolio that showcases adaptability and innovation in storytelling.
- Research The New York Times’ recent projects to align your application with current themes and standards.
- Prove a collaborative spirit and flexibility, key traits valued in the fellowship.
Living Expenses
The cost of living in New York City can be high for international students and fellows:
- Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $1,500 to $3,000+ per month, depending on location.
- Food: Monthly grocery costs average around $300–$600, with dining out costs extra.
- Transportation: Public transport via the MTA costs approximately $127 for a monthly pass.
- Miscellaneous: You may need additional expenses. For entertaiment purpose you may need $200–$400 .
Why Choose the New York Times Fellowship?
This fellowship offers a rare platform to learn in a leading newsroom, gain mentorship from experts, and make impactful contributions. It is ideal for early-career journalists aiming to make a mark in media.
FAQs
- Who can apply for the fellowship? The program is open to recent graduates and early-career journalists globally.
- Do I need previous experiences? Yes. Prior experience may help you. You can apply without any experiences.
- Are international candidates eligible? Yes.
- What are the work hours? Full-time, with potential for adaptable scheduling.
- Is the fellowship renewable? No, it is a one-year term.
Official Application Link
For more details and to apply, visit The New York Times Fellowship page.