Creative Writing

You must complete all admissions requirements as well as the program requirements below to be considered for admission. Before applying, please make sure to familiarize yourself with the School of Critical Studies, faculty, facilities, and curriculum.

You cannot make any changes to your application after it has been submitted.

MFA Application Requirements

A portfolio of current work representing your best writing and your aesthetic sensibility is required of all applicants to the MFA Creative Writing Program. This portfolio must contain a creative writing sample up to 25 pages in length. Within the 25 maximum pages, applicants may submit any number of pieces in any number of genres. While our program welcomes hybrid, multi-genre, and multi-media samples, all samples will be considered on equal terms. 

All applicants must submit the Writing Sample by uploading it into the Written Materials section of the online application. Additionally, any supplemental media integral to your writing practice should be submitted in the Portfolio/Audition Submission "Upload Media" section. 

An artist statement that broadly addresses your writing / artistic practice, your creative / critical influences, and your reasons for applying to CalArts’ MFA Creative Writing Program.  

All applicants must submit the Artist Statement by uploading it into the Written Materials section of the online application.

Two letters of recommendation are required.

All letters of recommendation should be received by the application deadline, so it is highly recommended that you contact your recommenders months before. We request that you submit the requests for your letters of recommendation through the online application, as it will allow you to track when we receive your requested letters.

Only if this is not possible, you may download the Letter of Recommendation Form (pdf) and have your recommender send their letters by mail to the Office of Admissions. Please choose only one method – either through the online application (preferred) or by mail – per recommender. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted via credentialing services such as Parchment or Naviance.

Mailed letters of recommendation should be sent to:

CalArts Office of Admissions
24700 McBean Pkwy.
Valencia, CA 91355
United States of America

Please note, letters of recommendation must be written in English or accompanied by a certified English translated document.