The Jefferson Fellowships 2026 are awards provided by the East‑West Centre. They are given to young journalists and communication professionals across the Indo-Pacific region. The programme helps fellows understand the importance of reporting and analytical skills. It helps them know more about regional issues and build networks with other policymakers. Students, freelance journalists and those in the media can enjoy the benefits that this fellowship offers. Through short-term study tours, workshops, and field visits, it enhances participants’ ability to communicate international issues with ease.
About the Jefferson Fellowships 2026
The Jefferson Fellowships have been around for many years, bringing together journalists and communication experts globally. How regional politics and economics work will be explained. There will be intensive training sessions and seminars using the latest technological resources. Successful applicants will enjoy site visits to government institutions.
Each training focuses on a specific thematic area such as climate, energy security, and economic development. There are also sessions that deal with health diplomacy or geopolitical trends.
The fellowship offers an avenue to meet leading media experts around the world. Participants will gain better skills in regional communication and policy interpretation. Through reporting assignments, multimedia projects, or written reflections, fellows produce content that tells the world about the complex regional dynamics.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: USD 3,000
- Maximum award: USD 5,000 total financial support covering travel, accommodation, and daily accommodation.
- Project duration supported: Two to four weeks
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Who Can Apply for the Jefferson Fellowships 2026
Eligible organisation types
- Individual journalists working in print, digital,
- Broadcast media
- Communication and media professionals
- Experienced writers and editors
- Leaders focused on Indo-Pacific affairs
Registration or legal documents
- Proof of employment
- Proof of professional affiliation
- Professional résumé
- Published work samples
- Valid identification
- Travel documents
Project focus requirements
- Show interest in Indo-Pacific regional issues
- Strong reporting background
- Clear motivation for professional development
- Ability to engage in intensive group learning and field activities
Geographic eligibility
- Applicants from Indo-Pacific countries
- Fellows are expected to travel for in-person components
- Participants must hold valid travel documents
Sector or thematic focus
- International relations
- Diplomacy
- Economic and development reporting
- Climate and environmental policy
- Cross-cultural communications
Application Process
- Complete the online fellowship application form during the open call period
- Submit work samples and professional credentials
- Provide a personal statement explaining interest and goals
- Await review and notification from the selection panel
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae or résumé
- Professional work samples
- Personal statement
- Motivation letter
- Identification and proof of affiliation
Key Dates
- Application Starts: 6 February 2026
- Application deadline: 27 March 2026
- Review period: April 2026
- Notification of results: 15 May 2026
- Fellowship period: July to August 2026
Selection Notes
- The fellowship is competitive
- Focus areas are on media, journalism, reporting and editing
- Those lacking media skills and without work samples will not be considered
Official Source of the Jefferson Fellowships 2026
Application Page: https://eastwestcenter.submittable.com/submit/58fd20d8-922b-403d-8832-5188cd69e1f7/Jefferson-Fellowships-2026