Deutsche Welle (DW), Germany’s international broadcaster, is preparing to open applications for its International Journalism Traineeship 2028, an opportunity for aspiring journalists from around the world to develop professional reporting, broadcasting and multimedia journalism skills.
Delivered through DW Akademie, the programme offers an 18-month bilingual journalism traineeship combining practical newsroom experience with structured professional training. It is designed for inquisitive, open-minded candidates who are passionate about journalism and interested in reporting on international affairs and diverse communities.
According to DW Akademie, the application period for the 2028 traineeship is scheduled to run from mid-October to mid-November 2026. Interested candidates should begin preparing their applications and review the official requirements before the application window opens.
DW International Journalism Traineeship 2028: Key Details
- Programme: DW International Journalism Traineeship 2028
- Host organisation: Deutsche Welle (DW)
- Training provider: DW Akademie
- Field: Journalism, broadcasting and multimedia reporting
- Duration: 18 months
- Location: Germany, with practical training and reporting activities as specified by DW
- Eligible applicants: Aspiring journalists from around the world who meet the official requirements
- Application period: Mid-October to mid-November 2026
- Deadline: Expected in mid-November 2026; the exact date should be confirmed on the official website
About the DW Journalism Traineeship
DW has trained journalists for more than 40 years. Its international traineeship introduces participants to the fundamentals of journalism while allowing them to apply their knowledge in practical reporting environments.
The programme combines theoretical instruction with hands-on experience, helping trainees develop the skills required to work in professional media organisations. Training covers core journalistic practices, with opportunities to learn through newsroom activities and reporting assignments.
The traineeship is bilingual, making language proficiency an important consideration for applicants. Candidates should review DW’s official requirements to determine the required languages and the expected proficiency levels.
The programme may be particularly valuable for aspiring reporters, multimedia journalists and media professionals who want to build careers in international journalism and strengthen their understanding of professional reporting standards.
Who Can Apply?
DW Akademie seeks candidates who demonstrate curiosity, open-mindedness and a genuine commitment to journalism. Applicants should be prepared to engage with different perspectives, investigate stories and communicate information accurately to diverse audiences.
The available announcement does not provide a complete list of eligibility criteria, including specific academic qualifications, age limits, language proficiency levels or minimum professional experience. Candidates should therefore consult the official requirements page before applying.
Review the eligibility requirements: https://akademie.dw.com/en/requirements/a-17909917
Applicants should pay particular attention to the required language skills, educational background, journalism experience and any technical or practical requirements specified by DW.
Application Process and Selection Stages
DW Akademie uses a competitive three-phase selection process to identify 12 emerging journalists from hundreds of applicants. Candidates should prepare carefully and follow the instructions issued during each stage.
The application process is explained on the official website.
Interested candidates should take the following steps:
- Review the requirements: Confirm eligibility and check the required languages, qualifications and other selection criteria.
- Prepare application materials: Organise a current CV, relevant academic information, evidence of journalism experience and any work samples requested by DW.
- Apply during the official window: Submit the application using the method provided by DW Akademie once applications open.
- Prepare for selection: Review the three-stage admissions process and be ready to demonstrate journalistic judgement, communication skills and an understanding of current affairs.
Candidates should not assume that all documents listed above are mandatory; the exact application requirements must be confirmed through the official instructions.
How to Strengthen an Application
Competition for the traineeship is expected to be substantial. Applicants can improve their readiness by developing a portfolio that demonstrates reporting ability, accuracy, curiosity and a commitment to ethical journalism.
Where appropriate, candidates should prepare examples of published articles, radio or television reports, podcasts, video stories or multimedia projects. Each sample should demonstrate clear storytelling, reliable sourcing, balanced reporting and attention to detail.
Applicants should also practise writing concise news reports, analysing current affairs and explaining complex issues to general audiences. Since the programme is bilingual, candidates should assess their language skills against DW’s published requirements and practise professional communication in the relevant languages.
A focused CV should highlight journalism-related experience, relevant training, digital media skills and examples of work that demonstrate initiative. Candidates should ensure all materials are accurate and submitted according to the official instructions.
Why Consider the DW Traineeship?
The DW International Journalism Traineeship offers aspiring journalists a structured route into professional media through an extended period of training and practical experience. Its international focus can help participants develop reporting skills, understand different perspectives and build experience in a professional broadcasting environment.
For candidates interested in international news, multimedia storytelling and cross-cultural communication, the programme may provide a valuable foundation for a journalism career.
Application Timeline and Official Links
The application window is scheduled to open in mid-October 2026 and close in mid-November 2026. The exact opening and closing dates should be verified on DW Akademie’s official website.
