The MFA Program for Writers often has requests from those who wish to attend only the residency period without undertaking a semester of study or earning credit towards the MFA degree. A limited number of such applicants may be admitted, at the Program's discretion. Residency Only status is also offered to a select few applicants to the degree program who the Academic Board feels would best benefit from the experience and make valuable contributions to the residency. Not all Residency Students who reapply are later admitted as full-time students, though many are, having found in the residency experience a clearer sense of direction for their work.

Residency Only Students participate fully in all residency events, attend classes, workshops, readings and lectures, and have their work critiqued in workshop along with enrolled semester students. In addition, a Residency Only Student meets with a faculty member for an individual manuscript conference.

The application materials required are the same as for students applying for the two-year degree program--though it's important to check the line on the application form where it asks "do you wish to attend the 10-day residency only?" The application deadlines are also the same: March 1st for Summer semesters; September 1st for Winter semesters. All applicants are notified 4-6 weeks after the application deadline date.

Tuition for Residency Only Students is currently $1,500, plus residency fees of $475, which cover room, board, and activities for the ten days on campus. Financial aid is not available for Residency Only Students.

If you are interested in applying to be a Residency Only Student and would like more information, call us at 828/771-3715, or e-mail mfa@warren-wilson.edu.