Media & Communication · News

Journalist

⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025

Journalism is the profession of reporting, writing, editing, and presenting news and public-interest stories across print, TV, radio, digital, and social media. In India, entry is often through institution-specific journalism or mass communication courses, followed by internships and a first newsroom job.

Who it's for: Best for students who like reading, writing, current affairs, speaking clearly, asking questions, and working to deadlines. It suits curious, ethical, adaptable people who can handle pressure and enjoy public-facing communication.

Advertisement

At a glance

Entry mode: Institution Specific
Exam shape: institution
Key exam: Institution
Min qualification: JMI/ACJ
Duration: 3-5 yr
Starting salary: 3-6 LPA (approx, as of 2025; entry pay can be lower in small media houses and higher in top digital/news brands)
Sector: Govt/Private
Category: Media & Communication

Subjects / Stream

EnglishPolitical ScienceHistoryEconomicsSociologyMass Communication / Journalism

Step-by-step path

  1. Choose any stream in Class 11-12, but keep English strong and follow current affairs closely.
  2. After Class 12, apply for institution-specific journalism or mass communication programs such as BJMC, BA Journalism, or related degrees.
  3. Prepare for and clear institute entrance tests, interviews, writing tests, or portfolio-based selection where required.
  4. During college, build skills in reporting, editing, fact-checking, media law, digital tools, and video/audio basics; complete internships.
  5. Create a writing portfolio with articles, campus reporting, blogs, or multimedia work.
  6. Apply for trainee reporter, sub-editor, content writer, or digital news roles in newspapers, TV, news portals, or agencies.

Key exams

JMI Entrance Exam - admissionACJ Entrance Test - admissionCUET - admissionIIMC Entrance Exam - admissionUniversity/college interview - selectionWriting test - screening

Top institutes / boards

Jamia Millia Islamia (A.J.K. Mass Communication Research Centre)Asian College of Journalism, ChennaiIndian Institute of Mass Communication, New DelhiSymbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, PuneChrist University, BengaluruDelhi University colleges offering journalism-related courses

Similar careers

Content WriterPublic Relations ExecutiveCopy EditorNews AnchorMedia Researcher
Advertisement

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum qualification to become a journalist in India?
Usually Class 12 is the minimum to enter a journalism or mass communication undergraduate course. For many newsroom jobs, a degree or diploma plus strong writing and internship experience helps a lot.
Which stream should I take in Class 11-12 for journalism?
Any stream can work. Arts/Humanities is common, but Commerce or Science students can also enter journalism if they have strong English, curiosity, and communication skills.
Is there a single national exam for journalism in India?
No. Journalism admission is often institution-specific. Some colleges use their own entrance tests, interviews, writing tests, or CUET-based admission depending on the course and university.
What are the main entrance exams for journalism courses?
Common examples include JMI entrance, ACJ entrance, IIMC entrance, and CUET for some universities. Many private institutes also conduct their own tests and interviews.
Can I become a journalist after Class 12?
Yes. You can join a journalism, mass communication, or media course after Class 12 and then move into internships and entry-level newsroom roles.
Is journalism a good career in India?
Yes, if you enjoy news, writing, and public communication. The field offers work in print, TV, digital media, radio, and corporate media, but it can be deadline-heavy and competitive.
What is the starting salary for a journalist in India?
Entry-level pay is often around 3-6 LPA in 2025, but it varies widely by city, media house, role, and skills. Small outlets may pay less; top brands may pay more.
Are journalism course fees high in India?
Fees vary a lot. Government and central universities are usually more affordable, while private institutes can be much costlier. Always check the latest fee structure of the specific institute.
Do journalism courses have age limits?
Most undergraduate journalism courses do not have a strict upper age limit, but some institutes may have their own rules. Always check the admission notice of the specific college.
Is reservation available in journalism admissions?
Yes, many government and central institutions follow India’s reservation rules for eligible categories. The exact policy depends on the institute and the admission process.
Can girls become journalists in India?
Absolutely. Journalism is open to all genders, and many women work successfully as reporters, editors, anchors, producers, and digital journalists across India.
What skills are most important for a journalist?
Strong English, clear writing, curiosity, fact-checking, interviewing, digital literacy, and the ability to work under deadlines are very important.
Do I need very good English to study journalism?
Good English helps a lot, especially for writing and editing. However, many journalists also work in Hindi and regional languages, so language strength in your chosen medium matters.
Which institutes are best for journalism in India?
Well-known options include JMI, ACJ, IIMC, Symbiosis, Christ University, and some Delhi University colleges. The best choice depends on course, fees, location, and placement support.
What jobs can I get after a journalism degree?
You can work as a reporter, sub-editor, copy editor, digital content writer, news producer, researcher, or anchor, depending on your skills and specialization.
Is internship important for journalism students?
Yes, very important. Internships help you learn newsroom work, build contacts, and create a portfolio. Many employers prefer candidates with practical reporting or editing experience.
Is journalism right for me?
It may suit you if you are curious, observant, comfortable with deadlines, and enjoy writing or speaking. If you dislike pressure or frequent updates, another career may fit better.
Can I enter journalism after graduation in another subject?
Yes. Many students do a postgraduate diploma or master’s in journalism or mass communication after graduation in another subject, especially if they want a career switch.
What is the scope of journalism in the digital age?
The scope is strong in digital news, video reporting, podcasts, fact-checking, social media, and multimedia storytelling. Traditional print and TV still exist, but digital skills are increasingly important.
How long does it take to become job-ready in journalism?
Typically about 3-5 years after Class 12, including a degree or diploma, internships, and portfolio building. Some students become job-ready sooner with strong practical experience.

Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.

Advertisement