Planning to Apply to Fully Funded MFA Programs

BEFORE APPLYING

• 12 – 6 months before applying – Begin researching MFA programs
  
• 12 – 3 months before applying – Complete drafts of writing samples
• 6 – 2 months before applying – Complete drafts of personal statements
• 3 – 2 months before applying – Ask for Letters of Recommendation  
• 3 – 2 months before applying – Set up application portal accounts at selected programs  
• 2 – 1 month before applying – Compile and review final portfolios  

AFTER APPLYING

• 1 – 3 months after applying – Review offers and choose program  
• 1 – 3 months after applying – Send thank you notes to recommenders 

Planning to apply to a fully funded MFA program in creative writing is a big decision that requires research, preparation, and attention to detail. By following the timeline provided above, the steps provided below, and seeking guidance as needed, you can put yourself in a strong position to succeed in the application process. 

Start Your Process Early

Starting early is an important step in the application process. By giving yourself plenty of time to prepare, you can ensure that you have everything you need to submit a strong application. Here are a few reasons why starting early is important:

1. Gather materials: Most MFA programs require applicants to submit a writing portfolio, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other materials. Starting early will give you time to gather all of these materials and ensure that you have everything you need to complete your application.
2. Edit and revise your writing: Your writing portfolio is an important part of your application and should showcase your best work. Starting early will give you time to carefully edit and revise your writing to ensure that it is of the highest quality.
3. Seek feedback: As you prepare your writing portfolio and personal statement, seek feedback from trusted friends, family, or colleagues. Starting early will give you time to incorporate this feedback and improve your application.
4. Research programs: Take the time to research fully funded MFA programs in creative writing to find the ones that best fit your goals and interests. Starting early will give you time to explore your options and make informed decisions about where to apply.
5. Meet deadlines: Most MFA programs have specific deadlines for submitting applications. Starting early will give you plenty of time to complete your application and ensure that it is submitted on time.

Research MFA Programs

Researching which fully funded MFA programs in creative writing to apply to is an important step in the application process. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a program, including the program’s reputation, faculty, location, and funding opportunities. Here are a few steps you can take to research fully funded MFA programs in creative writing:

1. Make a list of programs: Start by making a list of the fully funded MFA programs in creative writing that you are interested in. You can find a list of programs by searching online or consulting with writers and educators in the field.
2. Research the reputation of the program: Look for programs with a strong reputation in the writing community. You can research the reputation of different programs by looking at rankings, reading reviews from current and former students, and talking to writers and educators in the field.
3. Consider the faculty: The quality of your education will depend largely on the quality of the faculty who teach and mentor you. Look for programs with faculty members who are respected writers and educators, and who have experience in the genres you are interested in pursuing.
4. Consider location: If you have a specific location in mind, such as a city with a vibrant literary scene or a region with a particular cultural focus, you may want to consider applying to programs in that area. On the other hand, if you are open to relocating, you may have more options to choose from.
5. Research funding opportunities: Fully funded programs offer students financial support to cover the cost of tuition and other expenses, allowing you to focus on your studies without the burden of student debt. Some programs may offer full funding to all students, while others may only offer funding to a select number of students.

You may want to apply to at least three, or up to eight or more programs, depending on your resources. The more programs you apply to, the greater chance you have of being admitted to one. 

Seek Guidance in Applying to MFA Programs

Seeking guidance from others can be a valuable resource for aspiring writers. Here are a few ways you can seek guidance as you prepare your application:

1. Talk to writers and educators: Consult with writers and educators in the field to get insights and advice on applying to MFA programs. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and help you understand what to expect.
2. Seek feedback on your writing: As you prepare your writing portfolio and personal statement, seek feedback from trusted friends, family, or colleagues. You can also ask for guidance from a writing coach or mentor who can help you craft a strong application.
3. Attend workshops and writing conferences: Consider attending workshops and writing conferences to learn more about the MFA application process and to get feedback on your work. These events can provide valuable opportunities to connect with other writers and to learn from experienced writers and educators.
4. Contact the admissions office: If you have any questions about the application process or the program, don’t hesitate to contact the admissions office for guidance. They can provide helpful information and answer any questions you may have.

Prepare Your Writing Samples

Preparing writing samples is an important step in the application process. Your writing portfolio is an opportunity to showcase your skills and interests as a writer, and should be carefully curated to demonstrate your potential as a candidate. Here are a few steps you can take to prepare writing samples for your application:

1. Choose a diverse selection of writing: Your writing portfolio should include a diverse selection of writing that demonstrates your skills and interests. Choose pieces that showcase your ability to write in different genres, styles, and formats.
2. Edit and revise your writing: Take the time to carefully edit and revise your writing before submitting it as part of your application. Seek feedback from trusted friends, family, or colleagues, and consider working with a writing coach or mentor to improve your work.
3. Follow guidelines: Most MFA programs have specific guidelines for formatting and submitting writing samples. Make sure to follow these guidelines carefully to ensure that your writing is easy to read and review.
4. Include a brief introduction: Consider including a brief introduction to each piece of writing in your portfolio. This can help the admissions committee understand the context and significance of your work.
5. Consider including published work: If you have published work, consider including it in your writing portfolio. This can demonstrate your skills as a writer and your ability to get your work out into the world.

Prepare Your Personal Statements

Preparing a personal statement is an important step in the application process. Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell the admissions committee about your goals as a writer and why you are a strong candidate for the program. Here are a few steps you can take to prepare a personal statement for your application:

1. Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm and write your personal statement. This will give you the opportunity to revise and polish your essay.
2. Understand the prompt: Make sure you understand the prompt for your personal statement. Some programs may have specific questions that they want you to address, while others may give you more flexibility to write about your goals and interests.
3. Brainstorm: Take some time to brainstorm and think about your goals as a writer, your motivations for pursuing an MFA, and what makes you a strong candidate for the program.
4. Write a draft: Start writing a draft of your personal statement, focusing on your goals, motivations, and strengths as a writer. Be clear, concise, and passionate in your writing.
5. Edit and revise: Once you have a draft of your personal statement, take the time to edit and revise your essay. Seek feedback from trusted friends, family, or colleagues, and consider working with a writing coach or mentor to improve your essay.

Request Letters of Recommendation

Obtaining letters of recommendation is a crucial step in the process. These letters serve as a testament to your writing ability, work ethic, and potential as a graduate student and future writer. Therefore, it is important to approach this task with care and attention to detail.

Here are some tips for getting strong letters of recommendation:

1. Choose your recommenders carefully: Your recommenders should be able to speak to your writing abilities and potential as a graduate student and future writer. Therefore, it is important to choose recommenders who know you well and have experience with your writing. Consider asking professors or writing mentors who have taught you in workshop classes or who have worked with you on writing projects. You may also consider asking writers or editors you have worked with, or even past employers if they can speak to your writing skills.
2. Give your recommenders plenty of time: It is important to give your recommenders plenty of time to write a strong letter of recommendation for you. Aim to ask for letters at least a month in advance of the application deadline, and provide your recommenders with any materials they may need, such as your writing sample or a resume.
3. Communicate your goals: Before asking for a letter of recommendation, it is a good idea to have a conversation with your recommender about your goals and why you are applying to a fully funded MFA program in creative writing. This will help your recommender understand your motivations and give them a better sense of what to include in the letter.
4. Follow up: After you have asked for a letter of recommendation, it is a good idea to follow up with your recommender to make sure they are on track to submit the letter on time. This is especially important if you are approaching the application deadline and have not yet received the letter.
5. Say thank you: Finally, be sure to thank your recommenders for their time and effort in writing a letter of recommendation for you. A simple thank-you note can go a long way in showing your appreciation and maintaining a good relationship with your recommenders.

Assemble Your Application Materials

Assembling your application materials is an important step in the application process. Most MFA programs require applicants to submit a writing portfolio, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other materials. Here are a few steps you can take to assemble your application materials:

1. Gather transcripts: Most MFA programs require applicants to submit transcripts from their undergraduate and graduate studies. Contact your schools to request official copies of your transcripts.
2. Write a strong personal statement: Your personal statement is your chance to tell the admissions committee about your goals as a writer and why you are a strong candidate for the program. Start brainstorming and writing your personal statement well in advance of the deadline to give yourself time to revise and polish your essay.
3. Choose writing samples: Your writing portfolio is an important part of your application and should showcase your best work. Choose a diverse selection of writing that demonstrates your skills and interests, and be prepared to discuss your writing in your application essay.
4. Request letters of recommendation: Most MFA programs require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from people who can speak to your writing skills and potential as a writer. Choose recommenders who are familiar with your work and can write strong letters on your behalf.
5. Gather other materials: Some MFA programs may require additional materials, such as a resume, writing samples in specific genres, or responses to essay prompts. Make sure you have everything you need to complete your application.

Submit Your Application Materials

Submitting your application materials is the final step in the application process. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure that your application is complete and ready to submit:

1. Review the application instructions: Make sure you understand the requirements for submitting your application materials. Review the application instructions carefully to ensure that you have everything you need to complete your application.
2. Double-check your materials: Before submitting your application, double-check all of your materials to ensure that they are complete and accurate. This includes your writing portfolio, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other required materials.
3. Follow the application guidelines: Most MFA programs have specific guidelines for formatting and submitting your application materials. Follow these guidelines carefully to ensure that your application is easy to read and review.
4. Submit your application: Submit your application materials by the deadline. Make sure to keep a copy of your application for your records.
5. Follow up with the program: If you have any questions about your application or the status of your application, follow up with the program to inquire. You can also check the program’s website or contact the admissions office for updates.