MFA in Creative Writing

Applicants applying to this program who have attended a college/university outside the United States must provide a course-by-course credential evaluation with GPA calculation. Credential evaluations are accepted from World Education Services (WES) or Josef Silny and Associates, Inc. only.

One official transcript (in a sealed envelope) from each college/university attended.

Three letters of recommendation (preferably from current or former teachers).

Résumé or CV.

Statement of professional and creative goals, academic and creative background, and your commitment to community.(500-1000 words). In the first sentence of your statement, please specify the primary genre of study (fiction, poetry, or literary nonfiction In discussing your professional and creative goals, show us your passion for writing, your interest in specific styles or subjects, why you intend to pursue graduate study at UCF, and what you hope to achieve in the program. In the first sentence, you must identify the genre in which you are applying–fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, or hybrid form. We encourage applications in hybrid, literary and genre fiction, and experimental/new forms. 1.In discussing your academic and creative background, explain your background in writing, influences on your writing (other writers, specific classes, professors, or books), contemporary authors and works you admire, your extracurricular activities related to academia or writing, and any publications or awards you already have. 2.In discussing your commitment to community, comment on your investment in creating a supportive community of writers, including the value of peer critique and exchange of creative ideas, your interest or involvement in community events or outreach, and your commitment to diverse and inclusive literary spaces.

A portfolio of fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction. The portfolio must be in English and in the applicant’s primary genre (up to 15 pages of poetry, 30 pages of fiction, or 30 pages of literary nonfiction). This manuscript is the most important element of a candidate’s application. It will be evaluated by a committee of creative writing faculty to assess the candidate’s readiness for graduate study. The committee’s decision is based upon its qualitative assessment for the manuscript’s competence in standard English and originality, and the author’s demonstrated potential to succeed in the profession of creative writing.