MFA Deadlines Loom
Posted on | January 7, 2010 | No Comments
Yes, it’s only January, but now is the time to start seriously thinking abut deadlines for creative writing programs. While every program around the country has different requirements and deadlines, all will require some form of the following:
- An error free application (This is not the place to misspell the program’s name… or your own.)
- Letters of recommendation (These should address your potential as a writer.)
- A personal statement (Again, error free and a place to showcase your ability in a short form.)
- Your best writing samples (Probably the most important part of the application for an MFA.)
Some programs will also want GRE scores or have other requirements, but the list above covers what most will want. Look at putting together application packages as a creative writing project and craft each application for the individual program you are applying for. This does not mean that you cannot use the same writing samples for multiple programs, or that your personal statement cannot be basically the same, but tailor each statement and application for the program it is intended for. No one likes form letters.
It is never too early to begin working on getting good, specific recommendations from people that see your potential as a writer. MFA programs are not impressed by titles, so it is better to get a recommendation from a high school English teacher who can speak directly about your potential as a writer than having a “form letter” from President Obama’s office.
Take the time to help the people that are writing your letters of recommendation out. Give each one a package that contains specific requirements or the appropriate forms for the programs you are applying for. Give the recommender some suggestions of what needs to be addressed in the letter and even provide them a sample letter from someone else to look at… craft an example letter yourself and include it. This is not the time to be stoic or self deprecating. Believe me, the writers of your recommendations will thank you for the assistance and you will get better letters.
Finally, make a chart or spreadsheet that notes the deadlines of all the programs you plan to apply for and make a reverse timeline of deadlines. Give yourself plenty of room and figure that not all of the people writing you letters of recommendation will get them in on time. Have one or two extra recommenders lined up. It is better to have five letters come in when three are required than to have only one show up at the program you are applying for.
Treat the application process as a creative endeavor and have fun with it.