The New School master's program in creative writing is based on the principle that writing is a skill that can be learned through practice. Good writers can come from any background. We are a community that cares deeply about literary excellence and about the influence writers can have beyond the world of letters. Whether or not you are already published, we welcome your interest in developing your life as a writer.

A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university and an acceptable writing portfolio (described below) are the only prerequisites for applying.

Because of the integral nature of the MFA in Creative Writing, transfer credits are not accepted. The program is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study. Part-time study is not an option.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and writing for children has passed. Applications submitted after this date will be considered on a case-by-case basis; for inquiries, please contact the Office of Graduate Admission. There is no spring semester admission.

How to Apply

Plan ahead to meet the application deadline. It takes time for supporting documents such as official transcripts and reference letters to reach The New School. Your application will not be reviewed until all the required documents have been received by the Office of Admission. Former students seeking readmission must contact the Office of Admission for instructions before proceeding.

All applicants except readmits are required to use the online application. The application fee and most supporting documents can be submitted online with the application form. The online application form includes detailed instructions. You can also download the application instructions in PDF format. Please read the instructions carefully before filling out the application.

A complete MFA in Creative Writing application includes

• The application fee of $50 (nonrefundable)
• Official transcripts from every college or university previously attended, including documentation of undergraduate degree completion or the U.S. equivalent
• A statement of purpose—a 500-word explanation of your interest in and preparation for graduate study in creative writing
• A résumé or curriculum vitae
• Two letters of recommendation
• Writing portfolio: The content of your portfolio depends on your planned concentration. Submit a typed manuscript, double spaced. Work can be published or unpublished
  
  • Fiction or Nonfiction: 20 pages consisting of short fiction, an essay, or a selection from a larger work
  • Poetry: ten pages of verse
  • Writing for Children: 20 pages of fiction and/or nonfiction or a draft outline for a children's book

  Applicants with substantial accomplishments in more than one genre can apply for a dual concentration, but they must identify a primary and a secondary field and submit a separate writing portfolio for each.

Any supporting documents not submitted online can be mailed to the Office of Admission, accompanied by a Materials Cover Sheet.

International Applicants and Others with Foreign Credentials

See special requirements for English language proficiency and transcript evaluation.

Costs and Financial Aid

Go to the registrar for tuition and fees and to Student Financial Services for an estimate of other costs of attendance. Speak to an admission counselor if you are concerned about costs. The New School will work with you to help you finance your graduate studies. All accepted students are automatically considered for New School merit-based scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships.

All U.S. citizens and permanent residents who file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are considered for loans and grants on the basis of need. (The New School's federal school code is 002780.) You do not have to wait for an admission decision to file the FAFSA; you can file for the next year beginning January 1.

Additional Information

Successful applicants receive a letter of acceptance, which includes detailed information about and instructions for financial aid, housing, registration, student visas (for nonresidents of the United States), and other matters.

A decision to admit is always contingent upon an applicant's successful completion of any current studies and the receipt of a final transcript by the Admission Committee. Accepted students must arrange to have their official final transcripts sent before they begin classes.

Writing portfolios and all other documents submitted as part of the application for admission become the property of The New School and cannot be returned to the applicant or transmitted to a third party.

Students who wish to apply to more than one graduate degree program at The New School must call the Office of Admission for instructions, at 212.229.5150 or toll-free at 800.292.3040.