Eligibility and Application Requirements for 2026-2027
1. We offer domestic and international fellowships. U.S.-based journalists can apply with mental health focused topics.
Non-U.S. journalists can apply for the Mental Health and Climate Change fellowship. Preference is given to journalists from low- and middle-income countries. Fellows in Ireland, Latin America, and the UAE, can apply through programs in their countries. Please see the FAQ about these countries and email carterfellows@cartercenter.org for more information.
2. All fellows must have at least three years of professional experience in journalism (writing, reporting, editing, producing, filmmaking et al).
Projects should be tailored to fellows’ experience and interests and relevant to the dynamic mental health and substance use landscape. Fellows are not required to leave their jobs. Preference is given to journalists who work with or for a media outlet that expresses support for and commitment to publishing or broadcasting fellowship projects.
3. Applicants should express a strong interest in mental health reporting during and after the fellowship year. Previous mental health reporting experience is not required.
4. All applicants should submit a completed application with letters of support and recommendation. Incomplete applications will not be considered. All materials are due by 11:59 p.m. on April 3, 2026. Letters of support should include the intention to publish or broadcast your project.
5. Fellows must attend the mandatory, expense-paid Fellowship Training Meetings at the beginning and end of the fellowship year at The Carter Center in Atlanta. The next meeting will be held September 15-17, 2026.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about the fellowships and if you qualify.
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Overview: Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism
Get more details about The Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism and find links to fellows' projects.
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Overview: Carter Center Mental Health and Caregiving Program
Created by former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, a longtime champion for the rights of people with mental illnesses, The Carter Center's Mental Health Program works to promote awareness about mental health issues, inform public policy, achieve equity for mental health care comparable to other health care, and reduce stigma and discrimination against those with mental illnesses.
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U.S. applicants qualify for Rosalynn Carter Journalism Fellowships.
Apply January 30
International applicants qualify for Mental Health and Climate Change Fellowships.
Apply January 30