Journalism Scholarships Supporting Future Media Leaders for 2026–2027: Apply Now

Discover Journalism Scholarships Supporting Future Media Leaders for 2026–2027. Explore RTDNA Foundation scholarships and fellowships offering funding, professional development, and networking opportunities for aspiring journalists.

The Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026–2027 Journalism Scholarships and Fellowships, offering financial support and professional development opportunities for students and early-career journalists pursuing careers in broadcast, digital, and multimedia journalism.

Since 1970, the RTDNA Foundation has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships and fellowships to over 600 young journalists, helping launch careers in reporting, anchoring, news leadership, media law, and journalism education.

About the RTDNA Foundation Scholarships

The RTDNA Foundation is the educational arm of the Radio Television Digital News Association. Its annual scholarship and fellowship programme supports outstanding journalism students and emerging professionals who demonstrate excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to responsible journalism.

Recipients also receive valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders through the RTDNA Foundation’s First Amendment Awards event in Washington, D.C.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected recipients will receive benefits that may include:

Scholarship awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000
Professional networking opportunities
Invitation to the RTDNA Foundation First Amendment Awards
Fully supported travel and lodging to Washington, D.C.
Professional development sessions
Industry mentorship and networking opportunities

Award amounts vary depending on the individual scholarship or fellowship.

Who Can Apply?

The programme offers opportunities for:

Scholarships

Applicants should:

Be enrolled full-time in a college or university.
Be pursuing careers in radio, television, digital, broadcast, or multimedia journalism.
Be officially enrolled as sophomores, juniors, or seniors in good academic standing.
Meet the eligibility requirements for their selected scholarship.

Fellowships

Fellowships are available for:

Early-career professional broadcast or digital journalists.
Professionals with less than 10 years of journalism experience.

Eligibility is open to qualifying students and professionals studying or working in the United States. Applicants may apply for only one scholarship or fellowship, and submitting multiple applications will result in disqualification.

Application Timeline

The 2026–2027 application schedule includes:

Applications Open: September 9, 2026
Application Deadline: October 22, 2026
Recipients Notified: December 2026
Professional Development & Awards Event: March 2027 in Washington, D.C.

Travel and accommodation for scholarship and fellowship recipients attending the Washington event are covered by RTDNA.

Required Application Materials

Applicants should prepare:

Completed online application
Contact information
Journalism experience summary
Three to five journalism work samples (hosted on platforms such as YouTube, Vimeo, or SoundCloud)
Cover letter
Resume
Letter of recommendation from a professor, advisor, or supervisor

The cover letter should explain:

Journalism experience
Career goals
Why the applicant chose journalism
How scholarship funds will support their education and professional development

Available Journalism Scholarships

The RTDNA Foundation offers numerous scholarship opportunities, including:

Bob Horner Scholarship ($2,500)
Carole Simpson Scholarship ($2,000)
David Louie Scholarship ($2,000)
Dr. Marsha Della Giustina Scholarship ($2,000)
Ed Bradley Scholarship ($10,000)
George Foreman Tribute to Lyndon B. Johnson Scholarship ($6,000)
Lee Thornton Scholarship ($2,000)
Lou & Carole Prato Sports Reporting Scholarship ($1,000)
Mike Reynolds Scholarship ($1,000)
Pete Wilson Journalism Scholarship ($2,000)
Presidents Scholarship (Two awards of $2,500 each)

Fellowship Opportunities

Early-career journalists may also apply for:

Michele Clark Fellowship
N.S. Bienstock Fellowship
Vada & Col. Barney Oldfield National Security Reporting Fellowship
Gary L. Hanson International Reporting Fellowship

These fellowships support professional growth in broadcast, digital, and international journalism while providing financial assistance and networking opportunities.

Why Apply?

The RTDNA Foundation programme provides more than financial assistance. Successful applicants gain access to:

National journalism leaders
Professional networking opportunities
Career development workshops
Recognition within the journalism community
Valuable industry exposure
Connections that can support long-term career growth

Many previous recipients have gone on to successful careers as reporters, anchors, editors, educators, news executives, attorneys, and award-winning journalists.

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your chances of success:

Submit high-quality journalism work samples.
Write a compelling cover letter explaining your passion for journalism.
Demonstrate leadership, community engagement, and journalistic integrity.
Highlight internships, reporting experience, and multimedia skills.
Request a strong recommendation from someone familiar with your journalism work.
Apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.

Final Thoughts

The RTDNA Foundation Journalism Scholarships and Fellowships 2026–2027 offer an outstanding opportunity for aspiring journalists and early-career media professionals to receive financial support, industry recognition, and valuable professional development. Whether your passion lies in broadcast reporting, digital storytelling, investigative journalism, or multimedia production, these awards can help accelerate your journey toward a successful media career.

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