Admissions Procedures

To apply, complete the online application form. Here are some details to help:

1. The application asks for a 2-3 page autobiographical essay. The Admissions Committee uses the autobiographical essay to learn about your plans for the program and about your ability to think and write creatively and critically. This essay should be reflective in nature and respond to the following questions:
   - How and why did you decide to pursue this program?
   - How can this program further your personal and/or professional goals?
   - What special abilities, personal qualities, and life experiences do you bring to this program?
2. Submit a 10-12 page sample of your writing. We will look for potential in this writing, not necessarily perfection. If it is a finished essay or story, that’s best. If it is a portion of a longer piece of writing, please indicate that on page one. A collection of 10 pages of poems meets this requirement. You may submit both poems and prose, but please try to stay within the page limit.
3. Arrange to have official transcripts of all undergraduate work forwarded directly from the institution(s) to Manhattanville. Student copies are not acceptable.
4. Letters of recommendation from someone who can speak to your intellectual and academic ability. College faculty are preferred. If it has been a while since you have been in the classroom, an employer or work supervisor may be helpful. Look for recommenders who know your writing and/or your ability to work in group settings, as well as your potential for graduate-level study.
5. You may wish to contact the MFA office to speak with a current student or an alumnus. Contact us at MFA@mville.edu
6. Questions about the application should be directed to graduate admissions, but the MFA office will also be able to help.