Writing Certificate

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for Fall 2026 will open on April 13, 2026.

STEP 1: PAY THE APPLICATION FEE

• Register for the certificate application on our website and pay the $80 application fee. Links will be posted here on April 13.

STEP 2: COMPLETE THE APPLICATION

• Fill out the application form. After you pay the fee, you will receive a confirmation email that includes a link to the application. All materials must be submitted by Friday, June 5, at 5:00 pm (PT).
   
• Writing Samples: The application form will include instructions to upload the writing samples described below.
   
  • Personal Statement (300 words or fewer)
    • Tell us a little about yourself. Describe yourself as a person, student, and potential member of the Certificate cohort. What do you hope to gain from the program, and what will you bring to the community?
       
  • Project Description (300 words or fewer)
    • Tell us about the novel that you are writing or hope to start writing in the program. If you have two ideas, describe them both. In addition, please tell us the author and title(s) of 1-3 novels that have made an impact on you. Share a little about why these books moved you/what you loved about them.
       
  • Writing Sample (3,000 words or fewer)
    • Upload a fiction writing sample. This can be an excerpt from a novel-in-progress or a short story. It’s ok to submit multiple shorter pieces if you do not have one longer work.
       
  • Classroom Feedback Sample (200 words or fewer)
    • You will be provided with an excerpt from a novel that a student in the program has been working on. Imagine that you are a member of this cohort, encountering this piece for the first time. Please provide a paragraph of constructive feedback intended to guide revision and help the student move forward.