Your application to the MFA Program consists of the following:

• The completed application form, including your Statement of Purpose. Your Statement of Purpose should be at least two (2) but no more than five (5) double-spaced typewritten pages. In it, you should describe in detail your background and current interests as a writer, as well as your ability and commitment to undertake graduate education at this time. If you’re applying in two genres, please address your abilities and experiences with regard to both.
• A minimum of two letters of recommendation from people who are familiar with you and your work. These may be mailed directly to the MFA Program by the recommender, or you may send them with your application materials in a sealed envelope signed by the recommender. 
• Official transcripts from the degree-granting colleges you have previously attended, with proof of a Bachelor’s degree. (Please note on your application if the name on your transcript is different from your current name.)
• A manuscript of your work in the genre in which you are applying: no more than 10 pages of poetry or 10-15 pages of fiction or nonfiction. (Fiction and nonfiction writing samples should be double-spaced.  All writing samples should be in 12-point font.) This manuscript will not be returned.

• If you would like to be considered for a Teaching Fellowship, please write a brief essay of no more than three (3) double-spaced, typewritten pages in which you outline any previous teaching experience or other relevant employment experience (for example, have you ever been employed as an editor or a writing tutor?), as well as your interest in and reasons for applying for the fellowship. Please also have one of your references address your teaching or tutoring in your letter of recommendation.

• A $50 application fee must accompany the application. Make checks payable to Saint Mary’s College. You may also pay by credit card at the end of the online application process.
• The deadline for all applications is January 31st.

MFA Program in Creative Writing
Saint Mary’s College
P.O. Box 4686
Moraga, CA 94575-4686

If you have any questions about the program or application process, please contact  Coordinator of Admissions and Student Services, Candace Eros Diaz at 925.631.4762 or cd8@stmarys-ca.edu