Deadlines

Application Update: With ongoing interest in the Master of Science in Journalism (MSJ) graduate program, Medill will continue to accept Fall 2026 MSJ applications until May 31, 2026. Submit your Fall 2026 application, with all accompanying application materials (i.e., letter of recommendation, transcripts, etc.) by May 31, 2026. All completed applications will receive a final decision in 2-3 weeks.

All admitted students will be considered for merit-based scholarships. Each year, Medill awards scholarships and grants to over 95% of its graduate journalism students.

The application review process is the same for all three Rounds, and all admitted students will be considered for merit-based scholarships regardless of the Round they choose. 

Each deadline has a corresponding decision notification date. Decisions are not released on a rolling basis; instead, applicants who have submitted completed applications by the deadline can expect a decision by the notification date below. A completed application means that all your transcripts, test scores, letter of recommendation, application fee and required essays have been received by our office and included with your application. Applicants can view whether their application is complete by checking their application portal. Applications that are submitted but missing required elements, such as a letter of recommendation or missing transcript, will not be reviewed until all materials have been received. As a result, applications that are incomplete are not guaranteed a decision by their corresponding notification date. Late applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis once all the application materials have been received in our office.

Applicants must choose ONE journalism specialization on their admissions application. All specializations start in the fall quarter, September 2026.

Visit our application requirements page to learn about the items that are needed when you apply.

If you have any questions, please contact our admissions team.