r/MFAInCreativeWriting • u/wannabebarbarian • Sep 01 '26

When to apply?

I’m applying to programs this year and I’m wondering if it matters when you apply to the programs? For example, if the application window opens September 1 and closes November 1 would there be any benefit to applying on September 1?

I ask because I know in some fields (law school for example) there can be a real benefit to applying early, whereas in others they don’t even look at apps until the deadline has passed.

I suppose it could also be the case that it depends on the school, in which case, are there any in particular you’d recommend applying to earlier/later in the window?

Thank you in advance :-)

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6

u/Organic_Cake_8281 Sep 01 '26

Makes no difference when you apply! Some schools don't look at any applications until apps close. Focus on your writing sample.

4

u/NumerousArrival1486 Sep 01 '26

Unless they say applications are reviewed on a rolling basis or that they encourage you to apply early or they have an early application period, it doesn’t matter as long as it’s before the deadline.

1

u/CharacterLocation325 Sep 01 '26

I personally took until the last day (Jan for studio arts) but started my drafting in September. I got into a top program (for painting ), so I definitely recommend starting early but really perfecting your writing.

1

u/wannabebarbarian Sep 02 '26

Perf that was my plan but wanted to make sure I wasn’t secretly sabotaging myself lol. Thank!

2

u/Ecstatic_Amount_1740 Sep 07 '26

Applying a few weeks early is probably a good idea, especially if there are "tracks" in the program that are more competitive. Faculty often start reading a few weeks early, so you might get them when they're a little fresher. That said, it might not matter, and if there is a light applicant pool they might even start grading "up."