The Deutsche Welle DW Traineeship Programme 2027–28 is now open for aspiring international journalists. This fully funded, highly competitive 18-month programme includes intensive training, newsroom rotations, a monthly salary, and opportunities to work across DW’s global media platforms. Learn the requirements, benefits, eligible languages, and how to apply.
Overview: DW Traineeship Programme 2027–28
The DW International Traineeship Programme is consistently ranked among the world’s best journalism training programs. Hosted by Deutsche Welle, Germany’s international broadcaster, the programme prepares outstanding emerging journalists for global storytelling across television, radio, multimedia, and digital platforms.
The fully funded 18-month traineeship offers:
- Bilingual German–English training
- Practical newsroom experience
- Rotations across DW departments
- International reporting opportunities
- A monthly training salary
- One of the most comprehensive journalism curriculums in Europe
The 2027–28 intake seeks applicants from around the world who are curious, critical thinkers passionate about journalism and global affairs.
There is no age limit, and applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
About the DW Traineeship
The programme is designed to prepare trainees for global media careers by combining:
- Professional newsroom assignments
- Reporting workshops
- Editorial skills training
- Innovation labs and digital storytelling modules
- Field reporting
- Cross-platform content creation
Trainees work directly with DW’s editorial teams from day one and receive mentoring from senior journalists. Training locations include Bonn and Berlin, with opportunities for short-term assignments abroad.
Key Requirements
DW looks for inquisitive, multilingual, creative individuals who see journalism as a calling rather than a job. Successful candidates typically demonstrate:
- A global outlook
- Commitment to press freedom
- Strong storytelling skills
- Ability to work in diverse teams
- Interest in digital and multimedia production
Language Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following bilingual criteria:
1. Native speakers of a DW programme language
With:
- Excellent English (C1/C2)
- Good German (B1/B2)
2. Native or proficient English speakers (C1/C2)
With:
- Good German (B1/B2)
3. Native or proficient German speakers (C1/C2)
With:
- Excellent English (C1/C2)
DW Programme Languages:
Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Bosnian, Bulgarian, Chinese, Croatian, Dari, English, French, German, Greek, Hausa, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Kiswahili, Macedonian, Pashto, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, Tamil, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu.
Why German is required:
DW operates within the German media system. German is used in editorial meetings, research, reporting, and daily life in Germany. German proficiency improves integration, newsroom participation, and long-term career opportunities.
Qualifications Required
Applicants must have completed one of the following before the start of the traineeship:
- A university degree
- A completed apprenticeship
- Graduation from a journalism school
Digital copies of certificates must be submitted. If still in school, applicants must upload proof before the programme begins.
Journalism Experience
Experience in journalism is an advantage but not required. DW also welcomes applicants from other sectors who are motivated to transition into journalism.
Applicants must submit:
- Work samples (articles, videos, audio, blogs, reports, etc.)
Programme Benefits (Fully Funded)
The DW Traineeship is a paid, fully funded programme, offering:
- Monthly trainee salary (competitive in Germany)
- Full training costs covered
- Intensive multimedia journalism training
- Reporting opportunities across DW platforms
- Editorial rotations in multiple departments
- Work with Germany’s leading international broadcaster
- Professional mentorship
- Training in Bonn and Berlin
- Potential for long-term career opportunities at DW
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online only through DW’s official portal.
Application Components:
- Online application form
- Work samples
- Certificates of academic or vocational training
- CV
- Motivation statement
- Language information (self-assessed; certificates optional)
Do not apply via email, social media, or print submissions.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | DW Traineeship Programme 2027–28 |
| Funding | Fully funded + monthly salary |
| Duration | 18 months |
| Location | Bonn & Berlin, Germany |
| Eligibility | Open to all nationalities; no age limit |
| Education Required | Degree, apprenticeship, or journalism school |
| Language Requirements | German (B1/B2) + English (C1/C2) + DW language |
| Journalism Experience | Not required but beneficial |
| Application Method | Online portal |
| Work Samples | Required |
| German Requirement | Mandatory for all applicants |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is there an age limit?
No. The programme is open to applicants of all ages.
2. Do I need journalism experience?
No. DW welcomes career changers with strong interest in journalism.
3. Must I speak German?
Yes. Minimum B1/B2 is required, though certificates are optional.
4. Is the traineeship paid?
Yes. Trainees receive a competitive monthly salary.
5. Do I need to upload work samples?
Yes. These can be published or broadcast works in any format.
6. When does the programme start?
The intake covers the 2027–28 cycle; exact start dates will be announced in the official call.
Conclusion
The DW Traineeship Programme 2027–28 is one of the most sought-after journalism training opportunities in the world. With full financial support, newsroom experience, bilingual training, and access to global media professionals, the programme equips emerging journalists with the skills needed to thrive in international reporting and digital storytelling.
Aspiring journalists, creatives, and communicators with strong language skills and global perspectives are encouraged to apply.
