Application Information
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced writer, the Yale Writers' Workshop is designed to help you hone your craft in a supportive and immersive environment. We invite you to explore the admissions details and take the next step in your creative journey with us. If you have any questions along the way, contact us—we’re here to help!
Eligibility
- Applicants must be 18 years old by the start of the program.
- Applicants under 18 may apply for the Yale Young Writers' Workshop instead. The Yale Young Writers' Workshop is open to 16–18-year-old rising Seniors.
Admission Process
Admission is based solely on the writing sample, which must be submitted electronically with your application.
Writing Sample Guidelines
- Submit as a Word document (1,000 words)
- Formatting: Double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12-point font, one-inch margins
- Include your name on every page
- Genre: Choose either fiction or nonfiction and submit accordingly. Apply to the workshop that matches your genre preference.
[point] You may apply for both the on-campus and remote workshops, but please be mindful of the time commitment for each session. Writers are expected to read and critique manuscripts in both sessions.
Yale Writers' Workshop uses using a rolling admissions process: applications will be reviewed as they are submitted, with notifications sent out promptly after. This means workshops may fill before the application deadline, so we encourage you to check availability before submitting your application.
If you have a particular instructor preference, we recommend applying early to increase your chances of being assigned to your desired faculty. So, check workshop availability prior to submitting your application. If you want to work with a particular instructor, apply early.
Key Dates
| Description | Dates and Information |
|---|---|
| Application Portal Opens | January 15, 2025 |
| Rolling Admissions Decisions | Admissions decisions are released on a rolling basis, every Friday |
| Payment Deadline | Admitted students must remit payment within 2 weeks of acceptance to confirm their place in the workshop. Registration is not complete until payment is received. |
| Manuscript Due | May 5, 2025 - All manuscripts must be submitted to your instructor by this date |
Additional Information
- Immunization Requirements: All on-campus students must comply with Yale’s Immunization Requirements.
- Workshop Assignments: All writers are assigned to a workshop in the order in which they register. We will make every effort to honor your faculty preference. Please select your top two workshop preferences on the application. Picking the same workshop twice does demonstrate enthusiasm but does not guarantee acceptance.
If you have any questions or need assistance with the application, please contact us.
[point] The Work in Progress workshop will have a different application deadline date, admission release date and payment deadline.