How do I apply?

Application by Portfolio

In addition to the usual requirements for admission to Dalhousie, the Creative Writing Program has its own requirements. To take the introductory poetry and fiction classes, you are required to apply for admission with a portfolio.

What’s a portfolio? A creative writing portfolio is a sample of your best creative writing. Although individual instructors may vary their requirements, assume that you will need to submit up to five pages of poetry, fiction, drama, or creative non-fiction (depending on the course to which you are applying).

Note: Journalism 3440, Narrative Non-Fiction, does not require an application portfolio, but does require completion of Journalism 1001 or permission of the instructor.

When are portfolios due?

• Portfolios for ENGL 3098, Poetry, are due in late August.
• Portfolios for ENGL 3099, Fiction, are due in late July.
  

Does every course require portfolio admission?

No. Only the introductory poetry and fiction classes (ENGL 3098: Creative Writing, Poetry I and ENGL 3099: Creative Writing, Fiction I) currently require portfolio admission.

• New or additional classes may require portfolio admission.
• Successful admission by portfolio does not necessarily mean that your writing will earn a high grade in that class.
• THEA 3600 requires prerequisites and permission of the instructor: that permission may require submission of a portfolio.
  

If my portfolio is rejected one year, can I apply again the next year?

Yes. If Dal has a writer-in-residence, strive to work regularly with her or him to improve your portfolio. Or you might consider taking a poetry or prose workshop at the Writers’ Federation of Nova Scotia (WFNS) to get additional structured feedback on your writing.