Application Deadline: April 19th, 2026
The application window is now open for the 2027 cohort of the IWMF Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship, a prestigious opportunity designed specifically for women journalists around the globe. This fellowship offers an exceptional blend of academic enrichment and professional exposure, tailored for journalists who are deeply invested in reporting on human rights and social justice issues.
Selected fellows will engage in comprehensive research and coursework at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for International Studies. In addition, participants will gain invaluable hands-on experience through an internship with The Boston Globe, one of the United States’ leading newspapers. Historically, some fellows have also had the chance to work as writing fellows at The New York Times in New York City. However, starting with the 2027 fellowship, the placement at The New York Times will be discontinued. Currently, the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) along with fellowship coordinators are finalizing the fellow’s internship placement for the period of June to July 2027.
Who Should Apply?
The Neuffer Fellowship welcomes applications from women, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming journalists whose primary focus lies in the fields of human rights and social justice journalism. Candidates must be actively working as journalists and possess a minimum of three years of full-time professional experience in the field. It is important to note that work completed as part of academic coursework or internships during university studies will not be considered professional experience.
Both staff and freelance journalists from anywhere in the world are encouraged to apply. Fluency in English—in speaking, reading, and writing—is essential, as it enables fellows to fully engage with and benefit from the fellowship activities conducted in English.
What the Fellowship Provides
- A fixed monthly stipend intended to cover living expenses throughout the duration of the fellowship.
- Housing arrangements and associated costs are covered by the IWMF, including accommodations in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and New York City.
- Round-trip economy airfare from the fellow’s home country to the United States, as well as transportation between the fellowship locations.
- Health insurance coverage for the entire fellowship period.
- For international fellows, the program assists with and funds the application process for obtaining a U.S. visa.
Fellowship Timeline
| Month/Year | Activity |
|---|---|
| June 2026 | Final selection of the Elizabeth Neuffer Fellow |
| February – May 2027 | Start of fellowship: Internship at The Boston Globe and research/coursework at MIT’s Center for International Studies in Boston |
| June – July 2027 | Placement details to be confirmed |
| July 2027 | Conclusion of the fellowship program |
For further details and to submit your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the IWMF Elizabeth Neuffer Fellowship.
