Applications are now open for the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2026 at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. This fully funded 12-week fellowship (March 18 – May 29, 2026) offers mid-career journalists a transformative opportunity to deepen their understanding of economics, politics, and regulation while building a powerful international network.
Selected fellows will audit MBA-level courses, engage with leading academics, attend exclusive seminars, and collaborate with peers from around the globe. The fellowship includes a $14,000 stipend, round-trip airfare, visa support, and access to a wide range of academic and professional resources at one of the world’s top business schools.
Launched in 2017, the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program equips journalists with advanced insights into business journalism, political economy, and corporate governance. Fellows gain more than classroom knowledge—they engage in discussions on market structures, regulation, and corporate power, while contributing to global debates through the ProMarket publication.
This program has hosted journalists from leading media outlets worldwide, many of whom have gone on to editorial leadership, policy analysis, and academic collaborations.
Duration: 12 weeks (March 18 – May 29, 2026)
Location: University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Hyde Park Campus, Chicago, USA
Focus Areas: Business Journalism | Political Economy
Financial Support
$14,000 stipend (covers living expenses)
Round-trip airfare reimbursement (economy class)
Visa and SEVIS fee coverage
Note: International fellows may be subject to a 14% U.S. tax withholding, depending on tax treaties
Academic & Professional Development
Audit three MBA-level courses (e.g., The Firm and the Non-Market Environment, Crony Capitalism) taught by faculty such as Marianne Bertrand and Luigi Zingales
Participate in exclusive lectures, workshops, and networking events
Opportunity to contribute articles to ProMarket
Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and global peers
Networking & Recognition
Connect with academics, policymakers, and industry leaders
Become part of a global cohort of journalists
Join the program’s growing alumni network
Receive a Certificate of Participation upon completion
Fellows are expected to:
Audit three Booth courses and complete assignments
Actively engage in seminars, lectures, and workshops
Attend Stigler Center networking and academic events
Respectfully collaborate with peers and faculty
Sign a participation agreement before the program begins
The Stigler Center Fellowship goes beyond financial support—it is a career catalyst for journalists aiming to elevate their reporting and impact.
Key reasons to apply:
Gain deeper insights into the intersection of economics, politics, and regulation
Strengthen your investigative and analytical skills
Build a lasting international professional network
Publish thought leadership pieces via ProMarket
Join an alumni community shaping the future of global journalism
Nationality: Open to journalists worldwide
Language: Strong proficiency in written and spoken English
Experience: Must be a professional journalist with several years of reporting experience
This inclusivity makes it one of the most globally accessible journalism fellowships.
Resume/CV with journalism experience
Three published works (with English translations if necessary; TV/radio journalists may submit links with transcripts)
Two recommendation letters (from editors, supervisors, or senior colleagues)
Personal essays (max 500 words each):
Motivation for applying
Experience in business/political reporting
Expected outcomes from the fellowship
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, Cambridge, or equivalent evidence)
Submit your complete application via the official University of Chicago Booth portal
Incomplete applications will not be considered
Application Deadline: October 1, 2025
Program Dates: March 18 – May 29, 2026
Fellows who complete the program return with enhanced analytical skills, global perspectives, and stronger professional credibility. Many alumni have advanced to leadership roles in top news organizations, while others have contributed to policy debates and academic research.
The Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Fellowship 2026 is one of the most prestigious journalism fellowships worldwide. With full financial support, academic enrichment, and unmatched networking opportunities, it empowers journalists to make a lasting impact on business journalism and political economy.
If you are a mid-career journalist ready to take your reporting to the next level, apply by October 1, 2025, and join this transformative program.