FAQ
What is the Allbritton Journalism Institute?
AJI aims to restore journalism’s role in our democracy by fostering a new generation of reporters, from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives, who produce work that Americans trust. Up-and-coming, early-career journalists, chosen through an annual application process, are paid a salary of $60,000 per year for two years by NOTUS, a D.C.-based news outlet that is staffed by veteran reporters and editors. They take classes with AJI’s faculty while also covering government, policy and politics for NOTUS. The first class of fellows started in September 2023; the second started in September 2024; the third started in September 2025. The application for the 2026-2028 class will be available in fall 2025 and will be due in early 2026. Learn more below:
What type of experience will this be?
The program begins with a four-week immersion course in the practical application of journalism skills, from ethics and newsgathering to writing and distribution. After four weeks, fellows balance ongoing classwork with their roles reporting for NOTUS, where they cover Capitol Hill and other aspects of national policy and politics. The formal program runs for 18 months, after which fellows are invited to stay for an additional six months as we support them in seeking their next opportunity.
What makes this different from other journalism programs?
- Our classes are taught by top working professionals — reporters and editors for NOTUS, as well as journalists who write for other publications, including Tim Alberta of The Atlantic, DeNeen L. Brown of The Washington Post, Josh Dawsey of The Wall Street Journal and Cheryl W. Thompson of NPR. All AJI faculty are engaged with the ever-evolving media landscape on a day-to-day basis and attuned to the best practices in journalism right now.
- Fellows report for a real, working newsroom. This model allows fellows to learn journalism by practicing it at the highest level.
- We don’t charge our fellows to attend — they are paid a salary by NOTUS.
Who is eligible to apply?
We are looking for applicants of all backgrounds who want to work in journalism; who have a keen interest in policy and politics; and who believe journalism can and should play a critical role in our democracy. Some fellows may be just out of school; others may be looking for a career transition; still others may be working journalists who are early in their careers. A passion for journalism is a prerequisite, but actual journalistic experience is not.
Where do you hope fellows will go after the program?
By the time they leave AJI in 18 months to two years, graduates will have the background necessary to cover the inner workings of government and politics — and will be ready to take on reporting jobs at the country’s best outlets. We provide extensive support to fellows as they seek post-AJI jobs.
Where does the fellowship take place?
Rosslyn, Virginia (just outside Washington).
When will it start?
The 2026 program will begin in September 2026.
So I will get paid while I do this?
Yes!
How much again?
$60,000 per year.
Are benefits included?
Yes, as NOTUS reporters, fellows are eligible for health insurance and other benefits, including paid time off.
Where do fellows live?
Fellows are responsible for making their own living and commuting arrangements in the Washington, D.C., area.
I’ve never been to D.C. before. How will I figure out the move?
We know that taking a new job in a new city can present plenty of challenges, and we work with fellows on the relocation process. Fellows also receive $1,500 to help defray moving costs.
Can I attend remotely?
No. The AJI Reporting Fellowship is an in-person experience.
Is this program accredited? Will I get a degree or certificate?
This is not a degree or certificate program. It is focused on building real-world skills and experience.
Will you run the program every year?
Yes! We will welcome a new class annually.
What do current and former fellows think of the program?
You can read and listen to current and former fellows’ reflections on the program here.
How do I apply?
The application for the class of 2026-2028 can be found here. It is due February 18, 2026 at 11:59pm ET.
What if I have questions or need more information?
Reach out to us at admissions@aji.org.