DW Traineeship 2027–2028: Applications Open for Aspiring International Journalists

Deutsche Welle (DW), Germany’s international broadcaster, has officially opened applications for the 2027–2028 DW Traineeship, one of the most prestigious and competitive journalism training programs in Europe. This bilingual, 18-month paid program offers participants an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience across multimedia platforms and international editorial environments in Bonn, Berlin, and beyond.

Applications are open from October 13, 2025 (12:00 p.m. CEST) to November 17, 2025 (12:00 p.m. CET). The program will run from January 2027 to June 2028.

About the DW Traineeship

The DW International Traineeship is designed for creative, curious, and globally minded individuals who are passionate about journalism and eager to contribute to shaping the future of international media. The program equips participants with a broad skill set through practical training and editorial work within DW’s global network.

Trainees receive instruction and mentorship from leading journalists and media professionals while engaging in a diverse range of learning modules, newsroom rotations, and field assignments. The program combines theoretical training with real-world reporting to prepare participants for a fast-changing media landscape.

Over the course of 18 months, trainees will explore key journalism disciplines, including:

• TV and video production, including news presentation and on-air moderation.
• Multimedia storytelling across digital, audio, and social media platforms.
• Data journalism, including visualization and investigative techniques.
• AI-assisted journalism, exploring emerging technologies and innovation in media.

The traineeship is bilingual, primarily conducted in English and German, with opportunities to work in DW’s international editorial departments and its global bureaus.

Program Objectives

The DW Traineeship aims to:

• Cultivate critical-thinking journalists capable of analyzing global issues through independent inquiry.
• Strengthen the role of international and cross-cultural journalism in fostering mutual understanding.
• Provide comprehensive hands-on experience across multiple media formats.
• Support career development in an environment that values creativity, integrity, and journalistic ethics.

Participants benefit from DW’s extensive international reach, engaging with editorial teams and contributing to content that reaches audiences across more than 30 languages worldwide.

Eligibility and Key Requirements

DW welcomes applications from talented individuals from around the world, regardless of nationality or age. The ideal candidate demonstrates intellectual curiosity, social awareness, and a commitment to journalistic integrity.

Academic and Professional Background

Applicants may come from a wide range of academic and professional disciplines, including but not limited to:

• Journalism, media studies, or communications
• Political science, economics, or international relations
• Law, sociology, or history
• Natural sciences, engineering, information technology, or data science

While prior journalistic experience is advantageous, it is not mandatory. DW also encourages applications from professionals in non-journalistic fields who demonstrate a strong motivation to transition into journalism.

Core Eligibility Criteria

• Must have completed university-level education or equivalent professional experience.
• Must possess excellent written and spoken English; proficiency in German is strongly preferred, as parts of the program are conducted bilingually.
• Must demonstrate strong analytical skills, creativity, and open-mindedness.
• Must show the ability to work collaboratively in multicultural environments.
• There is no age limit for applicants.

Application Process

The DW Traineeship selection process is highly competitive and consists of multiple stages designed to assess creativity, communication skills, and journalistic potential.

Step 1: Online Registration

Applicants must register through DW’s official online application portal.

Upon registration, candidates will receive a confirmation email containing specific application tasks.

Step 2: Application Tasks

Applicants are required to complete and upload all mandatory materials before the deadline. These include:

• A detailed questionnaire outlining educational background and professional interests.
• A creative application video that reflects the applicant’s journalistic passion, originality, and storytelling ability.

DW advises applicants to allocate sufficient time for these tasks, as they may be time-intensive. Only applications submitted through the online system within the stated timeframe will be considered. Applications sent via email will not be processed.

Step 3: Assessment and Selection

Qualified candidates will undergo an online assessment and a multi-level evaluation process, including interviews and editorial tests. Approximately 12 candidates will be selected for the 2027–2028 cohort.

Due to the high number of applications, DW is unable to respond to individual inquiries regarding application status during the selection process. All shortlisted candidates will be notified directly via email.

Program Duration and Structure

The DW Traineeship runs from January 2027 to June 2028 and is structured as a full-time, paid training program. Trainees will receive a monthly stipend and gain access to DW’s modern facilities in Bonn and Berlin, as well as opportunities for international reporting through DW’s regional bureaus.

The program’s hybrid design combines classroom training, editorial work, and field reporting, ensuring that graduates emerge with the skills and experience needed to excel in today’s global media industry.

Conclusion

The DW Traineeship 2027–2028 offers a rare and valuable opportunity for aspiring journalists to develop their craft within one of the world’s leading international media institutions. Participants will gain firsthand experience in global news production, multimedia storytelling, and digital innovation — all while contributing to DW’s mission of promoting truth, dialogue, and democracy worldwide.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.