WRITING APPLICATION FAQ
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Will you accept a memoir and/or nonfiction writing sample for the application?
Each year, we award five fellowships in poetry and five fellowships in fiction. On the application, you must check either the "Poetry" box or the "Fiction" box to identify your writing sample; then the writing sample goes to our poetry jury or our fiction jury. In the past, some applicants have chosen to submit memoir/nonfiction writing samples to the fiction jury; however, keep in mind that the manuscript will be judged as a work of fiction, against a group of fiction manuscripts.
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What if my writing falls between the categories of fiction and poetry?
Those whose works fall between these two categories or employ both may also apply; however, all applicants must check either the "Poetry" box or the “Fiction” box on the application form, and the writing sample will be judged by the respective jury you choose, among writing samples in that particular genre. You may also apply in both genres; however, writers applying in more than one genre must submit separate applications, including a non-refundable processing fee for each genre.
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Is there an application fee?
Yes. There is a $50 application fee, which you will pay with a credit or debit card when you submit your online application.
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Do I list my name on my writing sample?
No. Your name must not appear anywhere in the writing sample, OR ON THE COVER PAGE. Likewise, do not list publications or awards anywhere in the sample.
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What if I'm working in a language other than English?
Writers working in a language other than English will be judged only on their own English translations of their own work, i.e., as writers of English.
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When is the deadline?
Your application must be submitted on or before December 1st.
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I’ve only published one book. May I apply?
Writers who have published (or are contracted to publish) a full-length book of creative work are not eligible. The Committee should be notified of any prior book contracts as well as those received throughout the application review period.
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How are Writing Fellows chosen?
Click here for more information on Selection of Writing Fellows.
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When does the Fellowship begin?
The Fellowship begins October 1st and runs to May 1st. Fellows remain in residence at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, Massachusetts, for the duration of the seven-month Fellowship.
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Do you provide housing and a stipend?
Yes. Our apartments are rustic but comfortable, and the expected stipend is $750/month.
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May I bring a spouse/partner?
Yes. In general, our accommodations are comfortable for one, tight for two.
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Is there an age limit?
No.
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Are foreign nationals welcome to apply for Fellowships?
Yes. In recent years, the Work Center has welcomed Fellows from many countries.
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If accepted, may I arrive early with my things?
No. Fellows arrive on October 1st. The Work Center has other programs that run through the other months of the year, and all housing will be spoken for.
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When will I find out if I’m accepted?
You will receive a response in early May.
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May I bring a pet? I want to bring my dog/cat/hamster/iguana/etc.
The Work Center is upgrading facilities and transitioning to a no-pets policy. We can only accommodate certified service animals. Do not arrive with a pet without telling us first, because we won’t be able to provide a space.
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My spouse/partner is a writer/artist and wants studio space. Can you provide it?
Some years, we do have extra studio space, and they may rent a space for a fee if it is available.
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Is parking available?
Yes, we provide a single parking space for each Fellow, but we cannot provide an extra space for spouses/partners.
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Do I need a car?
No. We are located in the middle of town, near all the amenities a small town can provide. We also have a few bikes for Fellows to borrow
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So what’s in the housing?
The apartments are furnished, but the furniture is basic. Each unit has a private bathroom and a kitchen with a range, refrigerator, and basic pots and pans. All units have double (full-size) beds. Some will want to bring the following: non-rudimentary kitchen tools (blender, fancy knives, etc.), kitchen spices, and condiments.
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Where are you located?
The Fine Arts Work Center compound is located at 24 Pearl Street, Provincetown, MA, 02657, on the outermost tip of lovely Cape Cod.
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I was rejected last year. May I apply again?
Yes. If you have applied to the Work Center before, please include new work in your writing sample.
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