USA Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Are you a journalist passionate about business reporting, political economy, and uncovering how markets and politics intersect? The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business offers a prestigious opportunity to sharpen your skills, expand your network, and immerse yourself in one of the world’s top academic environments.
This competitive program invites international journalists from all backgrounds to spend 12 weeks (March 18 – May 29, 2026) at Chicago Booth’s Hyde Park campus, auditing classes, collaborating with faculty, and engaging in thought-provoking events. With a $14,000 stipend, airfare reimbursement, and visa support, this program is an exceptional chance for mid-career reporters to enhance their expertise in business journalism and political economy.
In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and why it’s one of the best opportunities for journalists worldwide.
What is the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program?
The Stigler Center at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business was established to deepen public understanding of how politics and economics interact. Since its launch in 2017, the Journalists in Residence Program has welcomed reporters from across the globe, offering them academic exposure, networking opportunities, and practical training.
The program focuses on helping journalists become leaders in business reporting, enabling them to critically analyze corporate power, market structures, and regulatory frameworks. By equipping participants with new tools and perspectives, the program contributes to strengthening journalism’s role in uncovering economic and political dynamics.
Degree Level
- Professional training/fellowship
Available Subjects
- Political Economy & Business Journalism
Benefits
Selected fellows for the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 will receive a comprehensive package of financial, academic, and professional support.
Financial Support
$14,000 stipend (over 12 weeks) to cover living expenses in Chicago
Reimbursement for airfare (economy class round trip)
Visa and SEVIS fee coverage
Note: International participants are subject to a tax withholding of up to 14%, depending on their country’s tax treaty with the U.S.
Academic and Professional Development
Audit three MBA-level courses at Chicago Booth (examples: The Firm and the Non-Market Environment or Crony Capitalism with top professors such as Marianne Bertrand and Luigi Zingales)
Exclusive seminars and workshops organized by the Stigler Center and the wider University of Chicago community
Opportunity to write for ProMarket, the Stigler Center’s online publication focusing on economics and regulation
Collaborations with Booth faculty, researchers, and peers
Networking and Exposure
Interact with world-class economists, political scientists, and business leaders
Connect with a diverse international cohort of journalists
Participate in Stigler Center events, conferences, and social gatherings
Join a prestigious alumni network of past fellows now working at leading global media outlets
Certification
A certificate of participation will be awarded upon successful completion of the program.
Program Expectations
Participants are expected to fully commit to the program’s activities and academic rigor. Fellows must:
Audit three Booth courses and complete readings and assignments
Actively participate in seminars, lectures, and conferences
Attend Stigler Center-hosted events and social activities
Collaborate with peers and faculty respectfully
Sign a letter of agreement confirming adherence to program guidelines
Why Apply to the Stigler Center Program?
The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program is more than a fellowship—it’s a career-transforming experience. Here’s why you should consider applying:
Gain cutting-edge insights into political economy, market competition, and corporate governance.
Build a global professional network of journalists and academics.
Strengthen your reporting skills with exposure to world-class faculty.
Access career-boosting opportunities through ProMarket and Stigler Center collaborations.
Join a prestigious alumni network shaping global business journalism.
For journalists who want to go beyond reporting news headlines and become thought leaders in economic and political analysis, this program is unmatched.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to journalists worldwide, with the following requirements:
Language Requirement: Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
Experience Requirement: Applicants must be working journalists with several years of professional experience
Eligible Countries: Open to all international applicants
This inclusivity makes the program one of the most globally accessible journalism fellowships.
Application Procedure
Required Documents:
Resume/CV
Highlight relevant journalism experience and achievements.
Three Published Articles
Preferably in English; if not, provide translations.
For TV/radio journalists: submit links to video/audio files with English transcripts.
Personal Essays (500 words max each)
Describe your interest in the program and goals.
Share your experience in business, economics, or political reporting, and what you hope to learn.
Two Letters of Recommendation
From editors, supervisors, or senior colleagues.
Proof of English Proficiency (if applicable)
TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, Cambridge, or equivalent certification
OR proof of study/work in an English-speaking environment
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply via the official University of Chicago Booth website. Ensure that all required documents are ready before submission. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Program Timeline
Application Deadline: October 1, 2025
Program Dates: March 18 – May 29, 2026 (12 weeks)
Location: University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Hyde Park Campus, Chicago, USA
Alumni Testimonials
Past participants of the program have reported significant professional growth. Many alumni have returned to their home countries with new analytical tools, broader perspectives, and international connections that enhanced their reporting careers. Some have advanced to editorial leadership roles, while others have expanded into policy and academic research.
Final Thoughts
The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 is one of the most prestigious journalism fellowships worldwide, offering both financial support and intellectual enrichment. By joining, journalists gain access to world-class academic resources, international networking opportunities, and a chance to strengthen their role in shaping informed public debate on economics and politics.
If you are an ambitious journalist seeking to elevate your reporting career, this is your chance to spend 12 weeks in Chicago learning, collaborating, and transforming your professional path. Don’t miss the opportunity—submit your application before October 1, 2025.
