Applications are now open for the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2027 at the University of Chicago in the USA. This fully funded professional development program is designed for journalists from around the world who want to strengthen their understanding of business, economics, markets, politics and political economy.
The program is hosted by the Stigler Center at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Selected participants spend approximately 12 weeks on the Chicago campus, where they audit classes, attend seminars and workshops, interact with faculty and scholars and collaborate with journalists from different countries.
For the Spring 2027 cohort, selected journalists will receive a $14,000 stipend, reimbursement for economy-class airfare, visa and SEVIS fees, health insurance coverage and housing guidance. The application deadline is September 20, 2026.
Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program 2027 Overview
- Host University: University of Chicago
- Host School: Chicago Booth School of Business
- Program: Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program
- Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Duration: Approximately 12 weeks
- Program Period: March 15 – May 31, 2027 (tentative)
- Funding: Fully funded
- Eligible Applicants: Journalists from around the world
- Application Deadline: September 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT
What Is the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program?
The Journalists in Residence Program was launched by the Stigler Center in 2017 to help develop the next generation of leaders in business reporting.
The program focuses on the relationship between politics and the economy, helping journalists better understand markets, companies, regulation, competition, economic policy and business decision-making.
Participants spend time at the University of Chicago’s Hyde Park campus and learn alongside Chicago Booth students, faculty and other journalists. The program also provides opportunities to participate in seminars, lectures, conferences, workshops and other academic activities.
Financial Support
- $14,000 stipend for living expenses during the 12-week program.
- Reimbursement for economy-class airfare to and from Chicago.
- Reimbursement for visa application and SEVIS fees.
- Health insurance through the University of Chicago’s student/visitor plan.
- Housing guidance and resources for finding short-term accommodation.
Academic and Professional Opportunities
- Audit three Chicago Booth classes.
- Participate in Stigler Center seminars and workshops.
- Attend lectures, conferences & other university activities.
- Interact with Chicago Booth faculty and students.
- Network with journalists from around the world.
- Collaborate with other program participants.
- Opportunity to contribute to the ProMarket publication.
- Receive a certificate of participation after successfully completing the program.
Also Check: Sweden Opportunity Card 2027 – Residence Permit to Look for Work or Start a Business
What Will Journalists Do During the Program?
The 12-week residency combines academic study with professional development.
Participants are expected to:
- Audit three classes at Chicago Booth.
- Attend classes and complete required readings and assignments.
- Participate in Stigler Center seminars, lectures, conferences and workshops.
- Engage with faculty, students and other journalists.
- Take part in recommended academic and social activities.
- Collaborate with members of the international cohort.
- Develop a deeper understanding of business, economics, market and political economy.
Eligibility Criteria
- Have professional journalism or media experience.
- Have at least some years of experience in journalism.
- Have strong English-language skills.
- Demonstrate an interest in political economy.
- Show the ability to produce high-quality journalism.
- Be interested in improving their understanding of business and economic issues.
- Be able to participate fully in the 12-week program.
Can Freelance Journalists Apply?
Yes. Freelancers and editors are eligible to apply and the program regularly welcomes journalists working in different forms of media. The University of Chicago does not restrict the program to traditional newspaper journalists.
Required Documents
The application requires:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Personal statements describing your interests and goals
- Two recommendation letters
- Three published news articles
- Proof of English proficiency, if applicable
Application Deadline
The deadline for the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program Spring 2027 is:
September 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time (Chicago time).
The University of Chicago expects to announce admission decisions by the end of December 2026. The Spring 2027 program is tentatively scheduled to run from March 15 to May 31, 2027.
How to Apply for the Stigler Center Journalists in Residence Program ?
Follow these steps to submit your application:
Step 1: Review the Eligibility Requirements
Make sure your journalism experience, English proficiency and professional interests align with the program.
Step 2: Prepare Your CV and Personal Statement
Your personal statement should clearly explain your professional background, interest in political economy and what you hope to gain from the residency.
Step 3: Select Three Published Articles
Choose three examples that represent your strongest journalism. Articles related to political economy, business, economics, markets, or topics connected to the Stigler Center are preferred.
Step 4: Arrange Recommendation Letters
Ask two professional or academic references to submit their recommendation letters directly through the separate recommender portal.
Step 5: Submit the Online Application
Upload all required materials through the official application system before the September 20, 2026 deadline.
