Application Guidelines
All master classes require our online application, a writing sample and a cover letter.
Scroll down for specific requirements. Please read carefully before you submit.
All supporting documents must be uploaded as part of the application form.
We are unable to read random attachments submitted separately.
- Deadline for named fellowships: August 15. All other spaces are filled on a rolling basis.
Original cartoon by Anna Maconochie
- We open for applications every year in early July. Regular acceptance to all master classes will be made on a rolling basis until all slots are filled. Please read the requirements below before submitting your application. Limited financial aid is available to qualified applicants (talent+need.) Visit the separate menu tabs for details.
- Acceptance to UTV master classes is based on literary promise and/or accomplishment as demonstrated in your writing sample and the information on your application form, as well as the intent conveyed in your cover letter. We read every word you send us and do our best to ensure a good match between prospective participants and the program as a whole.
- Feel free to combine your cover letter and writing sample into a single clearly labeled Word doc or PDF with your name first, followed by the genre in which you are applying. Our application form normally saves automatically as you go, but we recommend copying all your responses to an outside document in case of glitches. You'll be asked to select ONE master class and to fill in a couple of brief background narratives about your prior writing experience and your expectations for Under the Volcano. Some applicants prepare these sections in advance and paste them in.
- N.B. Los candidatos de lengua hispana deben de enviar su muestra de escritura y su carta de presentación en español. Los candidatos al taller de periodismo deben de mandar un comprobante de al menos nivel C1 en inglés.
- For information on our full fellowships please visit the fellowships page.
Writing Sample Requirements
Poetry
- Submit 10 pages of poetry
- Must be single-spaced
- Don't cram multiple poems onto a single page.
Journalism
- Submit links to at least two published pieces under your byline, OR
- a PDF with no more than 2000 words or the equivalent.
- PDF must contain dates and place of publication.
Fiction/ Writing of Witness
- Submit 10 pages double-spaced in the relevant genre
- Indicate if this is a complete piece or an extract