Deadline: 01-Mar-2026
The ICFJ William J. Burns Fellowship is a nine-week international journalism programme that enables early- to mid-career journalists to deepen their reporting on transatlantic affairs through immersive experience in Germany. Open to journalists from the United States, Canada, and Germany, the fellowship provides financial support, professional exchange, and the opportunity to produce in-depth, internationally focused journalism.
Overview
The William J. Burns Fellowship, administered by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), is a competitive international programme designed to strengthen journalistic excellence and cross-border understanding of North American–European affairs.
The fellowship supports journalists who want to pursue ambitious reporting projects while gaining first-hand exposure to European media landscapes, policy debates, and international perspectives.
By combining immersive reporting with professional exchange, the programme helps participants develop deeper insight into transatlantic issues and global journalism practices.
What Is the William J. Burns Fellowship?
The William J. Burns Fellowship is a short-term, high-impact journalism fellowship focused on international reporting and professional development.
It provides selected journalists with:
Time and resources for in-depth reporting
Exposure to European media and policy environments
Opportunities for professional exchange and networking
A structured international learning experience
The programme is named in honour of William J. Burns and reflects ICFJ’s mission to advance quality journalism worldwide.
Key Focus Areas
Transatlantic Affairs
The fellowship prioritises reporting that explores political, economic, social, and cultural relations between North America and Europe.
International Journalism and Media Practice
Participants gain insight into different journalistic traditions, newsroom cultures, and reporting approaches across borders.
Policy and Global Issues
Fellows engage with contemporary policy discussions, international cooperation, and global challenges shaping transatlantic relations.
Fellowship Structure and Duration
Nine-Week Programme in Germany
Selected fellows participate in a nine-week fellowship based in Germany.
During this period, fellows focus on:
In-depth reporting projects
Professional development activities
Engagement with European media organisations and experts
Cross-cultural learning and exchange
An orientation week is included to help fellows fully engage from the start.
Financial Support and Benefits
Stipend and Travel Support
Each North American fellow receives:
A stipend of $4,000 to cover living expenses during the fellowship
An additional $1,500 to support travel costs
Living expenses during the orientation week are also covered by the programme.
This financial support allows fellows to focus fully on reporting and professional growth.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Countries
The fellowship is open to journalists from:
United States
Canada
Germany
Age Requirements
Applicants must be between 21 and 40 years old.
Professional Background
Applicants must:
Be employed by a newspaper, news magazine, broadcast station, or news agency
Or work as freelance or online reporters
Have at least two years of full-time professional journalism experience
Demonstrate strong journalistic talent and editorial independence
Language Requirements
German language proficiency is not required.
However, basic knowledge of German is encouraged as part of the cross-cultural learning experience.
What Fellows Are Expected to Do
Fellows are expected to:
Pursue an in-depth reporting project related to transatlantic affairs
Engage actively in professional exchange and learning opportunities
Participate in orientation and programme activities
Contribute to international dialogue and journalistic collaboration
Why This Fellowship Matters
The William J. Burns Fellowship plays an important role in strengthening international journalism.
It matters because it:
Supports high-quality, in-depth international reporting
Encourages cross-border understanding and collaboration
Builds long-term professional networks among journalists
Enhances global perspectives in media coverage
Reinforces journalistic excellence in transatlantic affairs
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Application Overview
Confirm eligibility based on country, age, and experience
Prepare a strong journalism-focused application
Clearly outline your interest in transatlantic affairs
Propose a compelling reporting focus or project
Submit your application by the relevant deadline
Application Deadlines
German fellows: February 1, 2026
North American fellows: March 1, 2026
Applicants should apply well in advance to ensure complete and competitive submissions.
Tips for a Strong Application
Demonstrate clear interest in North American–European relations
Show how the fellowship fits into your professional goals
Highlight past international or policy-related reporting
Present a realistic and relevant reporting focus
Emphasise openness to cross-cultural learning and exchange
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting generic applications without a transatlantic focus
Failing to meet age or experience requirements
Underexplaining the journalistic value of the proposed work
Ignoring the professional exchange aspect of the fellowship
Missing the application deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long is the William J. Burns Fellowship?
The fellowship lasts nine weeks and is based in Germany.
2. Who can apply for this fellowship?
Journalists from the United States, Canada, and Germany aged 21 to 40 with at least two years of professional experience.
3. Is German language proficiency required?
No, but basic German skills are encouraged.
4. What financial support is provided?
North American fellows receive $4,000 for living expenses and $1,500 for travel, with orientation costs covered.
5. What type of journalism does the fellowship support?
In-depth reporting focused on transatlantic affairs and international issues.
6. Is the fellowship open to freelance journalists?
Yes, freelance and online reporters are eligible to apply.
7. When are the application deadlines?
February 1, 2026, for German fellows and March 1, 2026, for North American fellows.
Conclusion
The ICFJ William J. Burns Fellowship offers a rare opportunity for journalists to deepen their understanding of transatlantic affairs through immersive international experience. By combining financial support, professional exchange, and focused reporting time, the fellowship equips journalists with the global perspective, networks, and skills needed to produce impactful journalism in an increasingly interconnected world.
For more information, visit ICFJ.
