Applying to the MFA Program

• Application form and fee.
• Two letters of recommendation: Please have your recommenders submit letters electronically using the link that will be generated when you select this option in the online application. It makes most sense to select recommenders who have taught you or writers familiar with your work. However, we understand that for those who have been out of school for some time and those who have not participated in writing workshops or conferences, this may be impossible. You will not be penalized for this, but we do ask that you choose your recommenders in a thoughtful manner.
• Transcripts for each university-level school attended: Visit the Graduate Admissions Page for detailed information about transcript submission. Send transcripts to the Office of Graduate Admissions; do not send transcripts to the Department of English.
• Personal statement (minimum two pages, double-spaced): that include your background as a writer, your purpose in pursuing this degree, and any other information you deem relevant for consideration.  
• Creative writing sample: a minimum of 10 poems; or 25 to 40 double-spaced pages of fiction or creative nonfiction. The writing sample is the most important part of your application. Please select material that gives us a sense of your primary interests.
• GRE scores are not required.

Deadlines for Admission and Assistantships:

Funding

The Department of English offers a limited number of Graduate Assistantships in departmental service, research, or teaching. These assistantships carry stipends in addition to the remission of University tuition and fees. A full assistantship includes a $14,000 stipend for non-teaching positions or a $16,000 stipend for teaching. Other awards are also available through the Department of English and The Graduate School. More information can be found here.