Are you an international student with a passion for creative writing? The United States is home to some of the best universities in the world, offering exceptional programs and opportunities for aspiring writers. Whether you dream of becoming a novelist, poet, or screenwriter, these top U.S. universities will provide you with the necessary knowledge, experience, and support to pursue your creative writing goals.
University of Iowa
The University of Iowa is renowned for its prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop, which has produced numerous acclaimed writers. As an international student, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in a vibrant literary community and learn from renowned faculty members. The university also offers various scholarships and fellowships specifically tailored to support international students pursuing creative writing.
A Robust Literary Community
One of the key advantages of studying creative writing at the University of Iowa is the opportunity to be part of a robust literary community. The Iowa Writers’ Workshop is known for its strong sense of camaraderie and collaboration. As an international student, you’ll have the chance to interact with fellow writers from diverse backgrounds, exchanging ideas, and providing valuable feedback on each other’s work. This vibrant community creates a supportive and inspiring environment for aspiring writers.
Renowned Faculty
The University of Iowa boasts an exceptional faculty roster, with renowned writers and poets who are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of literary talent. These faculty members bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom, providing valuable insights and guidance to international students. The opportunity to learn from such accomplished writers can be invaluable in honing your craft and developing your unique voice.
Diverse Workshops and Courses
The University of Iowa offers a wide range of workshops and courses in various genres, ensuring that international students have the opportunity to explore their interests and expand their writing skills. Whether you’re interested in fiction, poetry, non-fiction, or playwriting, you’ll find a workshop or course that aligns with your creative aspirations. The diverse range of offerings allows you to experiment with different styles and forms of writing, broadening your horizons and pushing the boundaries of your creativity.
Scholarships and Fellowships
Recognizing the value of international students in the creative writing program, the University of Iowa offers scholarships and fellowships specifically tailored to support their academic and artistic endeavors. These financial aids can help ease the burden of tuition fees and living expenses, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your studies and make the most of the opportunities available. The university’s commitment to supporting international students underscores its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
New York University
New York University’s Creative Writing Program is highly regarded and offers a diverse range of writing workshops and courses. Located in the heart of Manhattan, you’ll have access to a vast array of literary events, publishing opportunities, and networking possibilities. The program also hosts the Emerging Writers Reading Series, allowing you to showcase your work and connect with fellow writers.
Access to Literary Events
Being situated in Manhattan, New York University provides international students with unparalleled access to a wealth of literary events and cultural experiences. The city is a hub for the literary arts, hosting readings, book launches, and literary festivals throughout the year. Attending these events can offer valuable insights into the publishing industry, expose you to different writing styles, and provide opportunities to network with established writers and industry professionals.
Publishing Opportunities
New York University’s Creative Writing Program is well-connected within the publishing industry, offering international students numerous opportunities to have their work published. The program has partnerships with literary journals and magazines that regularly publish student writing. This exposure can be instrumental in building your writing portfolio, gaining recognition, and establishing a professional network within the literary world.
Emerging Writers Reading Series
The Emerging Writers Reading Series, hosted by New York University’s Creative Writing Program, provides a platform for international students to share their work with a wider audience. These readings allow you to showcase your writing skills, receive feedback, and connect with fellow emerging writers. The series often features established writers as guest speakers, further enriching the experience and providing inspiration for your own creative endeavors.
Mentorship and Guidance
At New York University, international students in the Creative Writing Program have the opportunity to receive mentorship and guidance from experienced faculty members. These mentors can provide valuable feedback on your writing, help you navigate the publishing industry, and offer advice on career development. The personalized attention and support from faculty members can be instrumental in your growth as a writer and your transition into the professional world.
University of Michigan
The University of Michigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for international students interested in creative writing. The program offers workshops in various genres, including fiction, poetry, and playwriting, allowing you to explore and refine your writing skills. Additionally, the university’s extensive library system and literary events contribute to a vibrant writing community.
A Supportive Writing Community
The University of Michigan’s Helen Zell Writers’ Program fosters a supportive and collaborative writing community that encourages international students to share their work and engage in constructive dialogue. The program values diversity and inclusion, creating an environment where different perspectives and voices are celebrated. This sense of community can be invaluable in nurturing your creativity, providing emotional support, and fostering lifelong friendships with fellow writers.
Workshops and Mentorship
The program at the University of Michigan offers a range of workshops and mentorship opportunities to help international students develop their writing skills and refine their craft. The workshops are led by accomplished faculty members who provide constructive feedback and guidance. The small class sizes allow for personalized attention and meaningful interactions with both faculty and peers, creating an environment conducive to growth and improvement.
Access to Extensive Library System
The University of Michigan boasts an extensive library system that provides international students with access to a vast collection of literary works, research materials, and creative resources. The libraries offer a quiet and inspiring atmosphere for studying, writing, and conducting research. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own writing or seeking additional knowledge in a particular area, the university’s library system is a valuable asset.
Literary Events and Festivals
The University of Michigan hosts a variety of literary events and festivals throughout the year, offering international students opportunities to engage with established writers, attend readings, and participate in discussions. These events expose you to different writing styles, genres, and perspectives, broadening your literary horizons. The festivals also provide platforms for you to showcase your work, connect with industry professionals, and gain recognition within the writing community.
Columbia University
Columbia University in New York City offers an MFA Writing Program that emphasizes both creative writing and literary study. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to work closely with accomplished writers and gain valuable insights into the publishing industry. Columbia also hosts the prestigious Columbia Journal, providing a platform for you to showcase your work and engage with the broader literary community.
Intensive Writing Workshops
Columbia University’s MFA Writing Program offers intensive workshops that allow international students to focus on their writing and receive feedback from experienced faculty members and peers. These workshops provide a structured environment for honing your writing skills, exploring different writing techniques, and experimenting with various genres. The program’s emphasis on the workshop model ensures that you receive personalized attention and guidance throughout your writing journey.
Literary Study and Analysis
At Columbia University, international students in the MFA Writing Program have the opportunity to engage in literary study and analysis alongside their creative writing endeavors. This interdisciplinary approach allows you to deepen your understanding of literature, explore different literary traditions, and gain critical insights that can inform your own creative work. The program encourages you to draw inspiration from a wide range of literary sources, fostering a richer and more nuanced writing practice.
Access to Publishing Opportunities
Columbia University’s MFA Writing Program is well-connected within the publishing industry, providing international students with access to various publishing opportunities. The program has partnerships with literary journals and magazines that actively seek student submissions. Being published in reputable publications can enhance your writing credentials, increase your visibility as a writer, and open doors to further professional opportunities in the literary world.
The Columbia Journal
The Columbia Journal, hosted by Columbia University, offers international students a platform to showcase their work and engage with the broader literary community. The journal publishes fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and visual art, providing opportunities for you to share your writing and artistic endeavors with a wider audience. Contributing to the journal can help you establish a professional writing portfolio, gain recognition, and build connections within the literary community.
Stanford University
Stanford University’s Creative Writing Program offers a unique blend of critical and creative approaches to writing. The program encourages interdisciplinary exploration, allowing you to incorporate various disciplines into your writing practice. As an international student at Stanford, you’ll benefit from small class sizes, individualized attention, and mentorship from renowned faculty members.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Stanford University’s Creative Writing Program encourages international students to explore the intersections between writing and other disciplines. By incorporating diverse perspectives and knowledge into your writing, you can develop a unique voice and expand the boundaries of your creativity. Whether you’re interested in integrating science,history, philosophy, or any other field into your writing, Stanford’s emphasis on interdisciplinary exploration provides a fertile ground for innovation and experimentation.
Small Class Sizes and Individualized Attention
One of the advantages of studying creative writing at Stanford University is the small class sizes and the individualized attention you’ll receive from faculty members. With smaller class sizes, international students have more opportunities to actively participate in discussions, receive personalized feedback on their work, and engage in meaningful interactions with both faculty and peers. This intimate learning environment fosters a sense of community and allows for deeper connections with mentors and fellow writers.
Mentorship from Renowned Faculty
Stanford University’s Creative Writing Program boasts a faculty comprised of highly accomplished writers who are dedicated to mentoring and guiding international students. These renowned faculty members bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom, offering invaluable insights into the craft of writing, the publishing industry, and the broader literary landscape. Their mentorship can be instrumental in helping you refine your writing skills, develop your unique voice, and navigate the professional world as a writer.
Workshops and Writing Seminars
Stanford’s Creative Writing Program offers a range of workshops and writing seminars that cater to the diverse interests and goals of international students. These workshops provide a structured environment for receiving feedback on your writing, exploring different genres, and experimenting with new techniques. The seminars, on the other hand, delve into specific aspects of the writing process, such as character development, plot structure, or poetic form, allowing you to deepen your understanding and hone your skills in a focused area.
University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin’s Michener Center for Writers is a highly regarded program that offers generous funding opportunities for international students. The program provides a supportive community and hosts events such as the Texas Writer’s Symposium, where you can engage with established writers and literary professionals. The university’s vibrant arts scene and literary festivals further enhance the creative writing experience.
The Michener Center for Writers
The Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin offers a highly selective and fully-funded program for international students pursuing creative writing. The program provides financial support through fellowships and scholarships, allowing you to focus on your writing without the burden of financial constraints. The Michener Center’s commitment to funding international students underscores its dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive writing community.
A Supportive Community of Writers
The University of Texas at Austin’s Michener Center for Writers fosters a supportive and inclusive community for international students. The program encourages collaboration and peer feedback, creating a nurturing environment where you can share your work, receive constructive criticism, and grow as a writer. The sense of camaraderie and community among fellow writers can be invaluable in overcoming creative challenges, exploring new ideas, and finding inspiration.
The Texas Writer’s Symposium
The Texas Writer’s Symposium, hosted by the University of Texas at Austin, offers international students the opportunity to engage with established writers, attend panel discussions, and participate in workshops. This symposium brings together writers from different genres and backgrounds, providing a platform for intellectual exchange, networking, and professional development. Participating in the symposium can broaden your literary horizons, expose you to new perspectives, and connect you with the wider writing community.
A Vibrant Arts Scene
The University of Texas at Austin is known for its vibrant arts scene, which includes not only creative writing but also theater, visual arts, music, and film. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich cultural environment that celebrates artistic expression. This interdisciplinary exposure can spark new ideas, inspire your own writing, and foster collaborations with artists from other disciplines.
University of California, Irvine
The University of California, Irvine’s MFA Programs in Writing offers a highly flexible curriculum that allows you to tailor your studies to your specific interests. The program focuses on nurturing your individual voice and provides opportunities to collaborate with students from other artistic disciplines. As an international student, you’ll have access to various resources, including the esteemed literary journal, Faultline.
A Customizable Curriculum
The MFA Programs in Writing at the University of California, Irvine, offer international students the opportunity to customize their curriculum based on their specific interests and goals. Whether you’re interested in fiction, poetry, non-fiction, or a combination of genres, the program allows you to design a course of study that aligns with your creative aspirations. This flexibility ensures that you receive a well-rounded education that nurtures your individual voice and encourages experimentation.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
The University of California, Irvine’s MFA Programs in Writing foster interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing international students to work with students from other artistic disciplines, such as visual arts, theater, or film. This cross-pollination of ideas and perspectives can inspire new creative approaches and expand your artistic horizons. Collaborating with artists from different backgrounds can also lead to exciting interdisciplinary projects and unique creative collaborations.
The Literary Journal, Faultline
The University of California, Irvine’s MFA Programs in Writing is associated with the esteemed literary journal, Faultline. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to this journal, showcasing your work alongside established writers and emerging voices. Being published in a respected literary journal like Faultline can provide validation for your writing, increase your visibility as a writer, and open doors to further publishing opportunities.
Readings and Literary Events
The University of California, Irvine hosts a variety of readings and literary events throughout the year, bringing together international students, faculty, and established writers. These events provide a platform for you to share your work, connect with the writing community, and gain exposure to different writing styles and genres. Attending readings and literary events can be a source of inspiration, allowing you to engage with the broader literary landscape and learn from established writers.
University of Wisconsin, Madison
The University of Wisconsin, Madison offers a renowned creative writing program that values experimentation and innovation. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary study and encourages you to explore connections between writing and other art forms. As an international student, you’ll have the chance to participate in the Wisconsin Book Festival and interact with established authors and literary professionals.
Emphasis on Experimentation
The creative writing program at the University of Wisconsin, Madison encourages international students to push the boundaries of their writing and explore new forms, styles, and techniques. The program values experimentation and encourages you to take risks in your writing, fostering a spirit of creativity and innovation. This emphasis on experimentation can help you discover your unique voice and develop a distinctive writing style.
Interdisciplinary Approach
The University of Wisconsin, Madison’s creative writing program embraces an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging international students to explore connections between writing and other art forms. Whether you’re interested in integrating visual arts, music, or performance into your writing, the program provides opportunities to collaborate with artists from different disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach can enrich your writing, spark new ideas, and broaden your artistic horizons.
Wisconsin Book Festival
The University of Wisconsin, Madison hosts the Wisconsin Book Festival, an annual event that brings together writers, readers, and literary professionals from around the world. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to attend readings, panel discussions, and workshops led by established authors. The festival provides a platform for you to engage with the literary community, expand your literary knowledge, and gain insights into the publishing industry.
Engagement with Established Authors
At the University of Wisconsin, Madison, international students have the chance to interact with established authors through readings, workshops, and other literary events. These interactions offer valuable opportunities to learn from experienced writers, receive feedback on your work, and gain insights into the writing process. Engaging with established authors can inspire you, provide mentorship opportunities, and broaden your understanding of the writing profession.
University of Virginia
The University of Virginia’s Creative Writing Program offers a supportive and rigorous learning environment for international students. The program focuses on the development of your writing skills across various genres and provides opportunities for publication and public readings. The university’s Virginia Festival of the Book and visiting writers series further enrich the creative writing experience.
Supportive Learning Environment
The University of Virginia’s Creative Writing Program creates a supportive learning environment for international students, emphasizing both the development of writing skills and the cultivation of a writing community. The program values collaboration and peer feedback, providing opportunities for you to share your work, receive constructive criticism, and engage in thoughtful discussions. This supportive environment can boost your confidence as a writer and nurture your creative growth.
Publication Opportunities
The University of Virginia’s Creative Writing Program offers international students numerous opportunities for publication. The program has partnerships with literary journals and magazines that actively seek student submissions. Being published in reputable publications can help you build your writing credentials, gain recognition within the writing community, and increase your chances of further publishing opportunities in the future.
Virginia Festival of the Book
The University of Virginia hosts the Virginia Festival of the Book, an annual literary event that attracts renowned authors, readers, and literary professionals from around the world. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to attend readings, panel discussions, and workshops led by established writers. The festival provides a platform for you to engage with the broader literary community, learn from established authors, and connect with fellow writers
Visiting Writers Series
The University of Virginia’s Creative Writing Program hosts a visiting writers series, bringing esteemed authors and poets to campus to share their work and insights. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to attend these events, listen to readings, and engage in discussions with visiting writers. This series exposes you to a diverse range of writing styles and voices, broadening your literary horizons and inspiring your own creative endeavors.
Workshops and Craft Seminars
The Creative Writing Program at the University of Virginia offers a variety of workshops and craft seminars that allow international students to develop their writing skills and explore different aspects of the writing process. The workshops provide a supportive environment for receiving feedback on your work, refining your writing techniques, and experimenting with new forms or genres. The craft seminars delve into specific elements of writing, such as character development, dialogue, or narrative structure, providing valuable insights and strategies for improvement.
Boston University
Boston University’s Creative Writing Program offers a diverse range of workshops and seminars taught by esteemed faculty members. As an international student, you’ll have access to resources such as the literary journal AGNI and the Robert Lowell Memorial Poetry Reading series. Boston’s vibrant literary scene and numerous publishing opportunities make it an ideal location for aspiring writers.
Wide Range of Workshops and Seminars
Boston University’s Creative Writing Program provides international students with a wide range of workshops and seminars that cater to different interests and writing styles. Whether you’re interested in fiction, poetry, non-fiction, or playwriting, you’ll find a workshop or seminar that aligns with your creative aspirations. These classes offer opportunities for constructive feedback, peer collaboration, and skill development, helping you refine your writing and expand your artistic horizons.
AGNI Literary Journal
Boston University is home to AGNI, a renowned literary journal that publishes cutting-edge fiction, poetry, and essays from around the world. As an international student, you can submit your work to AGNI and potentially have it published in this prestigious publication. Being published in AGNI can provide recognition for your writing, reach a broader audience, and open doors to further publishing opportunities.
Robert Lowell Memorial Poetry Reading series
Boston University hosts the Robert Lowell Memorial Poetry Reading series, which brings acclaimed poets to campus to share their work and inspire aspiring writers. As an international student, you’ll have the opportunity to attend these readings, learn from established poets, and engage in discussions about the craft of poetry. This series exposes you to different poetic styles, techniques, and voices, enriching your own poetic practice.
Boston’s Literary Scene
Boston has a vibrant literary scene, with numerous bookstores, literary events, and writing communities. As an international student at Boston University, you’ll have access to this thriving literary landscape, providing opportunities to attend readings, book launches, and literary festivals. Engaging with the local writing community can expand your network, expose you to new ideas and perspectives, and foster a sense of belonging within the larger writing community.
In conclusion, international students interested in creative writing have a wealth of options when it comes to choosing a U.S. university. The universities mentioned above provide exceptional programs, experienced faculty, and vibrant literary communities that will nurture your creative talents and help you achieve your writing goals. Whether you’re drawn to the renowned Iowa Writers’ Workshop at the University of Iowa, the vibrant literary scene of New York University, or the interdisciplinary approach at Stanford University, each institution offers a unique experience tailored to the needs of international students. Remember to thoroughly research each university to find the one that best aligns with your interests, goals, and aspirations. Good luck on your creative writing journey!