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The Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme remains one of the most respected opportunities for journalists, researchers, and media professionals who want to produce high-quality research while learning directly from one of the world’s leading media networks.
Applications for the 2026 edition are now open, inviting candidates from all countries (except Arab countries for the English track) to compete for this fully funded fellowship hosted by the Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI) in Qatar.
This programme gives fellows the chance to deepen their research, expand their understanding of global media operations, and gain firsthand experience inside the Al Jazeera newsroom. The fellowship also supports participants as they develop a 7,000-word research paper in an approved field of journalism.
Below, you will find a clear breakdown of the eligibility criteria, benefits, programme structure, required documents, and the full application process.
Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme Summary
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Host: Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI)
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Location: Doha, Qatar
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Category: Fellowship
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Eligible Countries: All countries (except Arab countries for the English programme)
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Reward: Fully funded training and research support
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IELTS: Not required
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Deadline: December 4, 2025
About the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme
The fellowship is designed to promote strong, evidence-based research in journalism, media innovation, and communication. Each fellow works closely with Al Jazeera editors, researchers, and professionals while producing an academic-quality paper that contributes to the field.
The programme is divided into two phases. The first phase is remote, while the second takes place physically at the Al Jazeera headquarters in Qatar. During the fellowship, participants receive guidance from experts and may join newsroom meetings, observe editorial processes, and engage with Al Jazeera’s research teams.
This structure allows fellows to combine academic research with real industry experience, making it one of the best opportunities for media scholars.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
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Hold a Bachelor’s degree in any field.
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Be a full-time journalist or researcher, either freelance or employed.
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Have at least four years of professional experience in journalism or research related to media.
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Demonstrate strong writing and analytical skills.
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Be fluent in English, including academic writing.
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Be from a non-Arab country for this English fellowship track.
(Applicants from Arab countries may apply to the Arabic Fellowship Programme.)
These criteria ensure that only candidates with demonstrated commitment to journalism and media research are selected.
Programme Structure and Duration
The fellowship lasts two months and is structured in two phases:
Phase 1: Remote Research Preparation
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Development of a complete research plan
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Submission of introduction and methodology
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Initial review by the AJMI research team
Phase 2: On-site Research in Qatar
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Completion of full research paper at Al Jazeera Headquarters
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Interviews with journalists and editors
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Access to archives, newsroom observations, and mentorship
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Final submission of a 7,000-word research paper
The programme gives fellows the time, space, and professional access needed to produce research that is both academically strong and practically relevant.
Priority Research Areas for 2026
Applications focusing on the following topics stand a better chance of being selected:
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Digital journalism in the Global South
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New schools or approaches in journalism
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Journalism ethics and evolving standards
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Media institutions and emerging challenges
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Digital transformation in Arab and African newsrooms
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Social impact of journalism in developing regions
These areas reflect global shifts in media practice and align with research needs identified by Al Jazeera.
Benefits of the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme
Although not monetary, the fellowship offers significant professional and academic value:
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Full access to Al Jazeera Media Institute resources
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Training and mentorship from senior media professionals
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Opportunity to produce a well-supported 7,000-word research paper
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Networking with international journalists and researchers
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Exposure to a world-class newsroom environment
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Improved skills in media analysis, academic writing, and investigative research
For any journalist or scholar aiming to grow in media research, this fellowship opens doors that are rarely available elsewhere.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
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Curriculum Vitae
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Fellowship research proposal, including
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Title
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Field of interest
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Objectives
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Research methodology
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Abstract
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A signed letter of commitment
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Three samples of previous work in English
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Two letters of recommendation
Incomplete applications are usually not considered.
How to Apply for the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme
Follow these steps:
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Visit the application page using the link provided.
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Review the fellowship guidelines and ensure your topic fits the priority areas.
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Prepare all required documents.
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Complete the online application form.
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Upload your documents.
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Review and submit your application before the deadline.
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Check your email for updates from AJMI.
Deadline: December 4, 2025