Admission

Candidates for admission to the MA and MFA programs must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution and a strong academic record, preferably in English, writing, or related fields. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required, although strong scores bolster an application. The application and admission requirements are identical for MA, professional graduate series, and non-degree special students. In evaluating MFA applicants, the admissions committee will look for evidence of the ability to create a more sustained final project, for interest in an interdisciplinary program, and for interest in learning how to teach. Visiting scholars, who earn no University credit, complete a shorter application.

Tuition

Tuition information can be found on the tuition page.

For detailed application, admissions, tuition, and administrative information, see Frequently Asked Questions.

Preparation Options

Both the MA and MFA are graduate-level programs and prior formal writing training is expected of all applicants. Applicants without formal training in creative writing are encouraged to consider taking an advanced writing workshop at the undergraduate level before applying to a graduate program. This educational experience provides the opportunity to develop a stronger writing portfolio and command of the fundamentals of the craft. More information on SCS undergraduate workshops is available at www.scs.northwestern.edu/courses.

Application Checklist

Application

• Meet Application Deadlines
• Complete Online Application
• Visiting Scholars should click here for application instructions
• Submit $75 nonrefundable application fee

Supplemental Materials *

• One sealed copy of official transcripts from ALL previous colleges and universities. Official transcripts must arrive in our office in the original sealed envelope issued by the institution. If you are currently enrolled, please submit an official transcript showing courses in-progress. Applicants with international transcripts must request an official course-by-course evaluation of transcripts from a NACES member. A course-by-course evaluation will translate courses, degrees, and grades to U.S. equivalency.
• Two letters of recommendation focusing on academic achievement and writing ability
• Statement of purpose (see below)
• Four copies of a 20-page writing portfolio in the selected genre of study (see below)
• Four copies of a brief (5–10 pages) critical essay on a major author or work of fiction, creative nonfiction, or poetry (see below)
• (optional) A separate written description of any additional study or experience in creative writing
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae

* If you are a graduate of the School of Continuing Studies M.A. in Creative Writing program, you only need to submit your official SCS transcript, one letter of recommendation, a Statement of purpose, and four copies of a 20-page writing portfolio in the selected genre of study.

Statement of Purpose

Applicants must submit a 300-word statement of purpose explaining how the degree program will help them meet their academic goals. Applicants who did not major in English or a closely related field should explain how other experiences, academic and nonacademic, have prepared them to undertake graduate study in creative writing.

Writing Portfolio and Literary Criticism Paper

Applicants must supply a sample of writing in the genre of study (creative nonfiction, fiction, or poetry) selected on the application for admission. The portfolio should consist of one or more works totaling approximately 20 typed, double-spaced pages of prose, 15-20 pages of poetry, or the equivalent in published work. The quality of the writing portfolio is the primary (though not exclusive) basis on which admissions decisions are based.

Applicants also must submit a brief critical paper demonstrating the ability to evaluate and analyze literature.

Visiting Scholars
Students applying as visiting scholars need only complete the following items:

• Completed application ( PDF Format )
• A nonrefundable application fee of $75
• One sealed copy of official transcripts from ALL previous colleges and universities. Official transcripts must arrive in our office in the original sealed envelope issued by the institution. If you are currently enrolled, please submit an official transcript showing courses in-progress. Applicants with international transcripts must request an official course-by-course evaluation of transcripts from a NACES member. A course-by-course evaluation will translate courses, degrees, and grades to U.S. equivalency.
• Four copies of a 20-page writing portfolio in the selected genre of study
  

For More Admissions Information
Please see the Frequently Asked Questions for additional information related to admission. If you have any questions, please call 312-503-1083 for assistance.