Auditions

Creative Writing Audition Process

Only students who have submitted a complete application will be granted an audition for admission to the ChiArts Creative Writing Program. Please visit the application pages for more information.

Students of all abilities may audition for admission into the Creative Writing Program. ChiArts recognizes the need to provide opportunities for students who have high levels of experience and/or training in creative writing and students who have not had prior training, but demonstrate a strong natural ability and a desire to learn.

How to Audition for the Creative Writing Department – Advice Video

Required audition preparation:

  • In-Person Auditions:
    • Students must submit a 3-6 page sample of their best writing. Be sure to bring a copy of the original as the writing sample will NOT be returned to the student. The writing may be in any genre. 
    • All writing samples must be written by the student alone and clearly labeled with the student’s name and title of the piece (if titled). The writing sample must be typed, double-spaced, and in 12-point font. Your 3-6 pages may be divided between pieces from more than one genre.
    • The sample may include but is not limited to poetry, fiction, drama, and creative nonfiction. The sample may be an excerpt from a longer piece or multiple examples of the student’s work as long as students meet the page requirement. 
    • At the time of the audition, students will be given a choice of prompts and 45 minutes to write a creative response to it. 
  • Virtual Auditions:
    • Students must submit a digital portfolio of 3-6 pages of their best writing. The writing may be in any genre. 
    • All writing samples must be written by the student alone and clearly labeled with the student’s name and title of the piece (if titled). The writing sample must be typed, double-spaced, and in 12-point font. Your 3-6 pages may be divided between pieces from more than one genre.
    • The sample may include but is not limited to poetry, fiction, drama, and creative nonfiction. The sample may be an excerpt from a longer piece or multiple examples of the student’s work as long as students meet the page requirement. 
    • During remote auditions, students will have access to the prompt options as they are completing the audition submission form and will be asked to take 45-minutes to respond to the provided prompt.

Creative Writing: FAQ

Should students who have never taken a creative writing class apply?

Yes, ChiArts encourages students of all levels to apply.

Should students with many years of creative writing experience and/or training apply?

Yes, students will be challenged no matter the experience they have had prior to attending ChiArts.

How can students prepare for the creative writing audition?

Backstage Passes will be held this fall to help students prepare for the audition process. Participation in the Backstage Passes is strongly recommended. Registration closes a week before each event.