APPLICATION INFORMATION

Here's how to apply...

The Iowa Young Writers' Studio is open to any academically motivated and socially mature student who will have completed at least their sophomore year in high school by June 2008. Nearly all students who attend the Studio have just completed their sophomore, junior, or senior years. In very rare cases, if there is space, we will admit an exceptionally talented and mature 9th grader.

Send us, (postmarked) by March 1, 2008:

1. An application form (view or print -- requires Adobe Reader) also included in our print brochure (request one here).

2. A creative writing sample. The sample should consist of approximately ten pages of fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction/essay, or any combination of the three. We are looking for writing that is clear, concise, vivid and interesting. For fiction, the sample may consist of a short story, part of a short story, several very short stories/pieces, or part of something longer (i.e. a novel or novella). The same applies for poetry and creative non-fiction/essay -- whole works or parts of works are acceptable. (Bear in mind, however, that parts of works should not be so small, fragmentary and/or isolated as to be incoherent. Meaning: please don't send ten pages of fragments of sonnets). Writing samples do not have to be in the same genre as the course you want to take, though we recommend that you apply with your strongest work, whether that be fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction, or some combination of the three. The writing sample must be typed and double-spaced (poems do not need to be double-spaced). We request that you use paper clips rather than staples, and that your name appear on every page.

3. A statement of purpose. In 1-2 pages, tell us why you want to participate in the Studio and what you hope to accomplish here. You may want to discuss your writing sample or talk about writers that you admire. This is a chance for us to get to know you a little bit from your own words.

4. An official transcript from your high school. Transcripts may be sent directly to us from your school or included in your application packet.

5. A letter of recommendation from an English teacher or other instructor who is familiar with your writing. Letters of recommendation may be sent directly to us from your teacher or included in your application packet. Guidelines can be found here.

There is no cost to apply! All applicants will be notified of results by mail by April 1, 2008. Manuscripts cannot be returned. Once students are accepted, they must reserve their place at the Studio with a $200 deposit. The balance of the tuition is due on June 1. In the event that a student accepted into the Studio chooses not to attend, a waitlist will be consulted and positions will be filled in order.

Mail your application by March 1, 2008 (this is a postmark deadline) to the address below:

Iowa Young Writers' Studio

The University of Iowa

C215 Seashore Hall

Iowa City, IA 52242-1402

We look forward to reading your work!