Al Jazeera Fellowship 2026 in Qatar opens registration: Here’s everything you must know before applying
Al Jazeera Fellowship 2026 applications now open
Applications are now open for the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme in Qatar, a fully funded opportunity for journalists, researchers, and media scholars worldwide. The fellowship, hosted by the Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI), aims to support innovative research and practical learning in journalism and media.
Selected fellows will spend two months working on a 7,000-word research paper under the mentorship of Al Jazeera professionals. The programme combines remote research and on-site training at Al Jazeera Media Network Headquarters in Doha, offering participants direct exposure to newsroom operations and editorial strategy.
What Makes the Al Jazeera Fellowship 2026 Special?
The Al Jazeera Fellowship is more than just a research opportunity, it’s an immersive career-boosting experience in one of the world’s most respected media environments. Participants will engage with editors, reporters, and producers while developing their projects with access to Al Jazeera’s vast media resources.
Through this initiative, the network hopes to encourage innovation in digital journalism and inspire critical research on challenges facing global media. Fellows gain insights into how professional journalism adapts to changing political, social, and technological landscapes.
Eligibility and Requirements for the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship
To qualify for the Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
- Be a full-time journalist or researcher with at least four years of professional experience.
- Possess strong research and writing skills.
- Be fluent in English (speaking and writing).
- Submit a detailed fellowship proposal with clear objectives and methodology.
The English-language fellowship is open only to non-Arab nationals. Applicants from Arab countries can apply for the Arabic Fellowship Programme offered by the Al Jazeera Media Institute.
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Programme Duration and Phases
The fellowship runs for two months, divided into two distinct phases:
- Phase 1 (Remote Research): Participants prepare a detailed research plan and introduction before traveling to Qatar.
- Phase 2 (In-Residence at Al Jazeera Headquarters): Fellows continue their research on-site, with access to Al Jazeera’s facilities and editorial teams, culminating in the completion and submission of their research paper.
Priority will be given to research projects focusing on digital journalism in the Arab world, particularly in areas such as media ethics, journalism and the Global South, and the evolution of journalism schools.
Benefits of the Al Jazeera Fellowship 2026
Fellows receive a fully funded package that covers:
- Travel and accommodation in Doha, Qatar
- Access to Al Jazeera’s facilities and resources
- Mentorship from senior journalists and researchers
- The opportunity to publish or present the completed research with Al Jazeera’s global network
This combination of academic rigor and practical experience makes the fellowship one of the most competitive and prestigious journalism programs in the region.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must submit the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Fellowship proposal (including title, objectives, methodology, and abstract)
- Signed letter of commitment
- Three samples of published work in English
- Two letters of recommendation
These materials must demonstrate the applicant’s capability to conduct independent research and contribute meaningfully to journalistic discourse.
How to Apply for the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme
Interested candidates should visit the official Al Jazeera Media Institute website and complete the application form before the December 4, 2025 deadline. Applicants are encouraged to craft clear, research-driven proposals that align with Al Jazeera’s mission to advance global media understanding.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Opportunity
The Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme is a rare chance to combine academic research with practical newsroom experience. It offers unparalleled professional networking, hands-on learning, and exposure to cutting-edge media practices.
If you’re a journalist, academic, or researcher passionate about storytelling, ethics, or digital innovation, this fellowship could be your gateway to a global media career.
FAQs — Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme 2026
1. What is the Al Jazeera Fellowship Programme?
It’s a two-month fully funded fellowship hosted by the Al Jazeera Media Institute in Qatar, designed for journalists and researchers to produce a 7,000-word research paper on media-related topics.
2. Who can apply for the 2026 Al Jazeera Fellowship?
Applicants must have at least four years of professional experience in journalism or research, hold a Bachelor’s degree, and be fluent in English.
3. What is the deadline for application?
The application deadline is December 4, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.
4. Is the fellowship open to non-journalists?
While primarily aimed at journalists, academics and researchers working in media-related fields are also encouraged to apply.
5. Is the fellowship paid or fully funded?
Yes. The Al Jazeera Fellowship is fully funded, covering travel, accommodation, and research-related expenses.
6. How long does the fellowship last?
The programme runs for two months, divided between remote preparation and on-site research in Doha, Qatar.
7. What are the priority research topics?
Al Jazeera prioritizes projects related to digital journalism, ethics, media challenges, and the Global South.
8. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply?
No standardized English test is required. However, fluency in English and strong writing skills are mandatory.
9. Can applicants from Arab countries apply?
Yes, but they must apply to the Arabic version of the Fellowship, while non-Arab nationals can apply for the English programme.
10. How can I apply for the Al Jazeera Fellowship 2026?
Visit the Al Jazeera Media Institute website and follow the step-by-step instructions to submit your proposal and documents before the deadline.