About

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) at Princeton University is a highly selective, fully funded, year-long college preparation program that immerses U.S. rising seniors from limited-income backgrounds in rigorous journalism training. Established in 2002 and housed in the Emma Bloomberg Center for Access and Opportunity, PSJP selects 40 students annually who demonstrate a minimum unweighted 3.5 GPA and strong writing potential. Accepted students participate at no cost, as the program covers all expenses for the residential portion, including transportation, housing, and meals.

The 2026 summer intensive follows a hybrid model: students begin with several weeks of virtual workshops in July before arriving on campus for a 10-day residential experience from late July through the first week of August. Under the guidance of professional journalists and Princeton faculty, students learn investigative techniques and ethical reporting, culminating in the publication of the annual newspaper, the Princeton Summer Journal.

The daily rhythm during the residential portion mirrors a working newsroom, with students pitching stories in editorial meetings and conducting on-the-ground reporting in the Princeton area. In 2026, students will tour major news organizations such as The New York Times and Bloomberg, and attend seminars on the college admissions process.

A cornerstone of PSJP is its commitment to long-term success; participants are matched with a dedicated college counselor who provides one-on-one mentorship through their senior year, assisting with personal statements and financial aid applications. The application process is a three-round competitive cycle that concludes in May. Within the national landscape, PSJP is widely regarded as a premier —and unique — opportunity that combines elite journalism training with intensive college access support for students from under-resourced backgrounds.