2026–2027 NABJ–Apple News Fellowship: Launch Your Career at the Intersection of Journalism and Technology

The 2026–2027 NABJ–Apple News Fellowship is a highly competitive and career-defining opportunity for aspiring journalists who want to work at the cutting edge of digital media. This prestigious program is a collaboration between Apple Inc. and the National Association of Black Journalists, designed to empower early-career journalists with real-world newsroom experience, mentorship, and exposure to innovative storytelling formats.

Apple News serves millions of readers worldwide by delivering high-quality journalism from leading global publishers. Through this fellowship, participants will step into a dynamic editorial environment where technology and storytelling meet to shape how audiences consume news today.

Why This Fellowship Matters

This program is more than just a work placement. It is a transformative learning experience that allows fellows to:

• Work alongside top editors and media professionals
• Gain firsthand experience in a globally recognized digital newsroom
• Develop editorial judgment and storytelling skills
• Understand audience engagement through data and metrics
• Build a strong professional network in journalism and media

The fellowship is structured to ensure both breadth and depth of learning, making it ideal for individuals committed to a long-term career in digital journalism.

Fellowship Structure and Experience

The NABJ–Apple News Fellowship runs from August 2026 to May 2027, offering a structured yet flexible learning journey:

1. Editorial Rotations (First 3 Months)

Fellows will rotate across key editorial teams within Apple News, including:

• Breaking news
• Audio storytelling
• Newsletters
• Content curation

This rotation phase ensures exposure to different storytelling formats and editorial workflows.

2. Specialization Phase (Remaining 6 Months)

After rotations, fellows will:

• Select a focus area in collaboration with Apple News leadership
• Build expertise in a specific editorial function
• Contribute meaningfully to ongoing editorial projects

Key Responsibilities

During the fellowship, selected candidates will actively contribute to the newsroom. Responsibilities include:

• Curating high-quality content with accuracy and context
• Writing compelling and engaging display copy
• Planning editorial coverage for major news events
• Collaborating with publisher partners and editors
• Ensuring content meets editorial standards and guidelines
• Analyzing performance metrics and improving engagement strategies
• Presenting insights and project outcomes to internal teams

This hands-on involvement ensures fellows are not just observers but active contributors.

Mentorship and Professional Development

A major highlight of the program is its strong mentorship component:

• Weekly one-on-one meetings with a manager
• Dedicated mentorship support for career guidance
• Continuous feedback to improve performance and skills

This structured support system helps fellows grow both professionally and personally.

Compensation and Work Environment

• Pay: $45 per hour
• Work Schedule: Up to 40 hours per week
• Work Mode: Hybrid (remote applicants are also considered)

This ensures financial support while maintaining flexibility for participants.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a current NABJ member in good standing
2. Be legally authorized to work in the United States
3. Be a recent graduate (by June 2026) or have less than three years of journalism experience
4. Hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
5. Have a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field (or relevant experience)
6. Demonstrate strong editorial skills and news judgment
7. Show commitment to a career in digital journalism
8. Complete the official application process

Applicants who are currently employed must also obtain approval from their employer.

Important Deadline

The application deadline is May 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM (PT). Late submissions will not be considered, so early application is strongly encouraged.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should:

• Join NABJ if not already a member
• Prepare academic transcripts and supporting documents
• Complete the official application form
• Submit all materials before the deadline

For inquiries, applicants can contact: awards@nabj.org

Final Thoughts

The NABJ–Apple News Fellowship stands out as a powerful launchpad for early-career journalists. It combines mentorship, real-world newsroom exposure, and cutting-edge digital media experience. If you are passionate about storytelling, technology, and shaping the future of journalism, this fellowship offers a rare opportunity to grow and succeed at a global level.

Discover more global fellowship opportunitieson OFY here