About the opportunity
Deutsche Welle’s bilingual international journalism traineeship is an intensive 18-month training program designed for inquisitive, open-minded, and critical-thinking candidates from all over the world. The program combines foundational journalistic theory with practical, hands-on experience across TV, radio, and online media platforms. Twelve aspiring journalists are accepted into the program to learn the ABCs of journalism and apply their knowledge directly within DW’s professional broadcasting environment in Germany. Trainees are required to be present at DW for the duration of the program and earn a monthly salary.
Salary and benefits
- Earn a monthly salary throughout the 18-month traineeship
- Gain comprehensive, practical journalistic training across TV, radio, and online media
- Opportunity to work in a major international media organization in Germany
- Participation in a structured program with over 40 years of training history
Who can apply?
- Open to applicants from all over the world with no age limit
- Must hold a university degree, regardless of the major/field of study
- Must have journalistic experience or a strong passion for switching to journalism from other fields
- Mandatory proficiency in both German and English
Required documents
- Documents required for submission via the online application portal
When to apply
- Applications for the 2028 international traineeship open from October 13, 2026, at 12:00 PM (UTC+2)
- Application deadline is November 17, 2026, at 12:00 PM (UTC+1)
How to apply
- Check all requirements and prepare necessary application documents
- Submit your application exclusively through the official DW online application portal during the open application window
- Participate in the three-stage selection and evaluation process
Additional information
- The traineeship is a full-time, on-site program requiring physical presence at DW in Germany for the entire 18 months
- A total of twelve trainees are accepted into the program
- Applicants from outside Germany must inquire about visa regulations and entry requirements at the German embassy in their home country
- Applicants with a medically recognized disability have protected rights under German law
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- An ideal match for university graduates with prior journalistic experience or professionals looking to transition into journalism from another field
- Perfect for multilingual candidates who possess strong command of both English and German
- Suited for individuals seeking structured, high-level professional development within a major international broadcasting institution
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires full-time, on-site presence in Germany for 18 months, meaning relocation is necessary for international applicants
- The selection process is demanding and consists of three competitive stages
- Applicants must independently handle visa regulations and entry arrangements with the German embassy
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This traineeship provides a strong stepping stone for launching or pivoting a career in international journalism, offering a mix of classroom learning and direct newsroom exposure. It is well-suited for individuals looking to build a professional media portfolio, acquire multimedia broadcasting skills, and secure paid work experience within a globally recognized news organization.
Our take
Aspiring journalists worldwide who hold a university degree and are fluent in both English and German should strongly consider applying. Those unable to relocate to Germany for 18 months or lacking the required bilingual proficiency will find this opportunity unsuitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
