Fully Funded Fellowship at Chicago Booth
The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business offers a prestigious, fully funded opportunity to sharpen your skills and expand your global network.
This competitive fellowship invites international journalists from diverse backgrounds to spend 12 weeks (March 18 – May 29, 2026) at Chicago Booth’s Hyde Park campus. Fellows will audit MBA-level courses, collaborate with world-renowned faculty, and participate in exclusive seminars and events. With a $14,000 stipend, airfare reimbursement, and visa support, the program provides a career-transforming experience for mid-career journalists.
About the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program
The Stigler Center was established to deepen public understanding of how politics and economics interact. Since 2017, the program has hosted reporters from around the world, equipping them with advanced knowledge, analytical tools, and professional networks to strengthen their role in business journalism and political economy.
Participants gain academic exposure, practical insights, and the chance to connect with experts in economics, business, and regulation. The program goes beyond classroom learning, fostering a deeper understanding of corporate power, market structures, and governance.
Fellowship Details
Degree Level
Professional fellowship program
Subjects Covered
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Business Journalism
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Political Economy
Fellowship Benefits
Financial Support
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$14,000 stipend (12 weeks) to cover living expenses
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Reimbursement for round-trip economy airfare
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Visa and SEVIS fee coverage
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Note: International fellows may be subject to a 14% U.S. tax withholding depending on tax treaties
Academic & Professional Development
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Audit three MBA-level courses (examples: The Firm and the Non-Market Environment or Crony Capitalism) taught by leading professors like Marianne Bertrand and Luigi Zingales
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Access to exclusive seminars, lectures, and workshops
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Opportunity to contribute articles to ProMarket, the Stigler Center’s online publication
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Collaborations with faculty, researchers, and peers
Networking & Exposure
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Engage with world-class academics, policymakers, and business leaders
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Join an international cohort of journalists
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Participate in conferences and events at the Stigler Center
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Become part of a growing alumni network with professionals working at leading media outlets
Certification
Program Expectations
Selected fellows are expected to:
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Audit three Booth courses and complete assignments
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Actively participate in seminars, lectures, and workshops
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Attend Stigler Center events and networking activities
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Collaborate respectfully with peers and faculty
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Sign a letter of agreement confirming participation
Why Apply?
The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program is more than just a fellowship—it’s a platform to transform your career.
Key reasons to apply:
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Gain advanced insights into economics, politics, and regulation
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Build an international professional network
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Strengthen your reporting skills with world-class academic exposure
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Publish thought leadership pieces through ProMarket
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Join an influential alumni network shaping global business journalism
Eligibility Criteria
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Nationality: Open to journalists of all nationalities
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Language Requirement: Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
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Experience: Applicants must be professional journalists with several years of reporting experience
This inclusivity makes the program one of the most globally accessible opportunities in journalism.
Application Process
Required Documents
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Resume/CV highlighting journalism experience and achievements
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Three published articles (with translations if not in English; TV/radio journalists may submit video/audio links with transcripts)
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Personal essays (maximum 500 words each) covering:
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Two recommendation letters from editors, supervisors, or senior colleagues
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Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, Cambridge, or evidence of study/work in an English-speaking environment)
How to Apply
Program Timeline
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Application Deadline: October 1, 2025
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Program Dates: March 18 – May 29, 2026 (12 weeks)
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Location: University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Hyde Park Campus, Chicago, USA
Alumni Success
Graduates of the program have returned to their countries with stronger analytical skills, broader perspectives, and lasting global connections. Many alumni have advanced into editorial leadership, while others have contributed to academic research and policymaking.
Final Thoughts
The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 is one of the most prestigious fellowships for journalists worldwide. It provides not only financial support but also intellectual enrichment and a powerful global network.
For ambitious journalists aiming to elevate their careers and contribute to impactful reporting, this fellowship offers a unique platform. Submit your application before October 1, 2025, and seize the opportunity to be part of this transformative program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the duration of the fellowship?
The program lasts for 12 weeks, from March 18 to May 29, 2026.
2. Who can apply for the Stigler Center Fellowship?
The fellowship is open to professional journalists of all nationalities with several years of reporting experience.
3. Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes, fellows receive a $14,000 stipend, airfare reimbursement, visa support, and academic access.
4. What type of courses can fellows audit?
Fellows can audit MBA-level courses at Chicago Booth, including subjects related to business, markets, and political economy.
5. Do I need to be fluent in English to apply?
Yes, proficiency in spoken and written English is required.
6. What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must provide a CV, three published works, two recommendation letters, personal essays, and proof of English proficiency.
7. How competitive is the fellowship?
The program is highly competitive, attracting journalists worldwide with diverse backgrounds.
8. Do fellows receive a certificate?
Yes, a certificate of participation is awarded upon completion of the program.
9. What kind of professional benefits can I expect?
Fellows gain academic knowledge, global networking opportunities, and potential publication with ProMarket.
10. When is the deadline to apply?
The deadline for applications is October 1, 2025.
