Frequently Asked Questions

If I submit my application online, how do I get the writing sample to you?
Applicants may submit a writing sample in plain-text format (for example, as an MS Word document) that is less than 1 megabyte in size as part of their online application. If your work cannot easily be sent in this format, send it by regular mail to: Graduate School, Brown University, Box 1867, Providence RI 02912.T

The online system states that it will not accept writing samples that are more than 50 pages in length. I'm submitting one that is longer than that. What should I do?
Send your writing sample, in hard copy, to Graduate School, Box 1867, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912

I want to send three short stories, but can only upload one document. What should I do?
Format your three stories into one document -- start each story on its own page, and run the story title in a larger typeface than the rest of the text. We'll figure out how to make it evident that there are multiple texts.

What is the suggested length for the personal statement?
We suggest between 1 - 2 pages for the personal statement.

If I am applying online, where do I get the recommendation forms to give to my referees?
When completing the application, you may register your referees' names and electronic mail addresses. The referees will receive a note telling them that they've been registered to submit a recommendation, and by whom, and will be provided login information, so that they can visit the site and upload their letter on your behalf. One or more of your referees may feel more comfortable using other means to get your letter to Brown. In such cases, Literary Arts is more concerned about simply getting the letters than making sure that your referees use the proper forms. As such, you may ask your referees to send their letters on their own letterhead (and skip Brown's form altogether). If you do not use the Brown form, each referee should seal and sign the seal of the envelope before sending. We also accept letters sent by dossier services. All physical letters of reference should be sent to the Graduate School, Box 1867, Brown University, Providence RI 02912.

What are my chances of getting in?
In the past few years, the Program has received between 650 and 700 applications. This year, the Program anticipates offering admission to: five fiction writers, five poets, three playwrights and one electronic writer.

Can I get advice from a faculty member regarding my application?
We’re sorry to say that the Program is not in a position to critique an applicant’s manuscript—before or after the process takes place.

Is there a foreign language requirement/exam?
No.

What if I miss the 15 December application deadline?
We don’t have rolling admissions, nor do we have spring admissions. We’re sorry to say that you’ll have to wait for the next 15 December deadline.

If I am accepted, can I defer?
No; if you do not wish to start in September, you’ll have to reapply.

Can I transfer credits from another graduate school?
Up to one course may be transferred from another graduate program. Final determination as to whether or not the transfer will be accepted will be made by the Director of the Program and the Dean of the Graduate School.

What if I want to just take one class a semester?
The Program expects all students to take two classes for four consecutive semesters. If you can only commit to taking one course a semester, chances are that this is not the best program for you. Nonmatriculated students cannot enroll in Literary Arts workshops.

What should I say in my Personal Statement -- and how long should it be?
The Program has no particular guidelines regarding the Personal Statement. We suggest that you think of it as an introduction to your writing sample. You can talk about yourself, your aesthetics, your past experiences, your hopes, dreams and fears. In most cases, the Personal Statement will range from 1-4 pages in length.

Do my letters of recommendation have to be from my college professors? While the Graduate School suggests that at least two letters come from instructors who teach at the school you most recently attended, we encourage you to arrange for letters from any three people who can speak cogently about you as a writer, whether or not they have ever been your teacher.

What if a recommendation or transcript is sent after the 15 December deadline?
If your application form, personal statement and writing samples arrive on time, then your application will be reviewed. Of course, if they arrive on time, letters and transcripts may affect your candidacy. If accepted, you will need to have all materials on file with the Graduate School before you matriculate.

I just have to send my package by courier. Where do I send it?
We do not encourage your doing this, as it may in fact, slow down the processing of your materials; however, if absolutely necessary, use the following address: Brown University, Graduate School, 47 George Street, Providence RI 02912.

I applied for entry to Brown's Literary Arts program last year and was not accepted. Do I have to start over?
You will still need to complete a new application and submit a new application fee; however, your supporting materials are kept on file for one year, so transcripts, letters of reference, personal statements and writing samples may be reactivated. For directions on how to reactivate your materials, contact the Graduate School at 401 863 2600. For most applicants, we recommend that you submit an updated writing sample and personal statement. Submit new transcripts only if there are additional classes taken since the last application submission.

You may reach the Graduate School at 401 863 2600. You may reach the writing program at 401 863 3260, by sending messages to Writing@brown.edu or by writing to us at Box 1923, Brown University, Providence RI 02912.

An Application Checklist

Here is what you need to submit to apply to the Graduate Program in Literary Arts:

The following items must be submitted by the 15 December deadline; otherwise your application will not be considered:

Application Form ____

Application Fee ____

Writing Sample ____

Personal Statement ____

The following items should be submitted by the 15 December deadline; late receipt of these materials may mean that your application will be reviewed before it is complete:

Three Letters of Reference ____

Transcripts ____

TOEFL Results ____ (for international students only)

The following item should be submitted after 1 January:

Federal Financial Aid Form, listing Brown as a school to which results will be sent ____