YJI Youth Journalism Contest - In-Depth Reporting
by Youth Journalism International (YJI)
Award Certificate
International journalism contest category by YJI for long-form analytical journalism by young journalists aged 19 and under. Award certificates for winners.
Mode
Online
Fee
$7 for one student, $15 for a team of up to 3, $25 for a team of 4 or more
Participation format
Individual and team
Teams of 2 or more
Duration
Annual contest cycle
Time needed
Submission of previously published work
Eligibility
Open to non-professional journalists aged 19 and under worldwide. Work must have been published or broadcast in English. Entries from school publications, blogs, online papers, and other venues accepted.
- Age range
- Up to 19 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Prerequisites
- Published or broadcast long-form analytical journalism work in English
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
Award Certificate
Custom-made award certificates for all winners from first place to honorable mention
Recognition
International Journalism Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opens
- 1 Nov 2026
- Registration closes
- 12 Feb 2027
Online · YJI Online Submission Form
How to apply
- 1Submit entry via YJI online form with public link to published work
- 2Pay entry fee of $7 USD per individual entry (fee waivers available)
Rules and guidelines
- Entrants must be non-professional journalists aged 19 or under
- All entries must be accessible online with a public link
- Work must have been published or broadcast in English
- Judges may reassign entries to a more appropriate category
- Previous first-place winners in this category cannot re-enter
Technology requirements
- Internet access for online submission
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Individual entry fee is $7 USD. Team entries cost $15 for three people or fewer and $25 for four or more. Fee waivers are available for individuals facing financial hardship: write to contest@youthjournalism.org. Waiver requests are limited to two entries.
About this opportunity
The In-Depth Reporting category is part of the annual Youth Journalism International (YJI) contest, one of the longest-running youth journalism competitions worldwide. This category recognizes young journalists aged 19 and under who produce long-form, analytical journalism that goes beyond routine coverage to provide deeper context and insight on important subjects.
In-depth reporting involves extended research, multiple source development, and comprehensive analysis to uncover untold stories or provide thorough examination of complex issues. The contest is open to non-professional journalists who have published or broadcast work in English from school publications, blogs, online papers, and other venues.
Entries are evaluated by more than two dozen judges including professional journalists, teachers, and media experts worldwide. Winners from first place to honorable mention receive custom-made award certificates. Individual entry fee is $7 USD with fee waivers available for individuals experiencing financial hardship.
Rounds and format
Single round evaluation of previously published in-depth or long-form reporting work
How entries are judged
Entries evaluated for depth of analysis, thoroughness of research, use of multiple sources, and journalistic insight on complex subjects
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
Frequently asked questions
What distinguishes in-depth reporting from standard news articles in this competition?
In-depth reporting for this contest requires extensive research, development of multiple sources, and comprehensive analysis to provide deeper context and insight into complex subjects, moving beyond basic event coverage.
How can participants effectively manage the time commitment required for thorough research and writing?
Effective time management involves planning research phases, setting realistic writing deadlines, and seeking guidance from mentors or teachers to balance the competition demands with academic responsibilities.
What are common pitfalls or mistakes participants should avoid when preparing their in-depth reports?
Common mistakes include insufficient source verification, lack of analytical depth, failure to provide adequate context, and not adhering strictly to the submission guidelines regarding publication dates and online accessibility.
How does the judging panel evaluate entries, and what factors contribute to a high-ranking submission?
Judges assess entries based on the depth of analysis, thoroughness of research, effective use of multiple credible sources, and the overall journalistic insight demonstrated in examining complex issues. Originality and impact are also key factors.
What are the long-term benefits of participating in this international journalism competition, beyond winning an award?
Participation offers invaluable experience in analytical journalism, enhances a student's portfolio, provides international recognition, and connects them with a global community of aspiring journalists and media professionals, fostering skill development and networking opportunities.
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