KWH Summer Workshop for Young Writers (University of Pennsylvania)

Summer program · University of Pennsylvania, Kelly Writers House

A small group of rising juniors and seniors spends 10 days at Penn's Kelly Writers House, mornings devoted to a personal essay writing workshop and afternoons to craft sessions with guest writers across poetry, fiction, screenwriting, and other genres. The program says it expects far more qualified applicants than it has spots for; applicants submit a 300-word essay, an 8-10 page writing sample, a transcript, and a teacher recommendation. Financial aid (up to $2,750 of the fee, plus limited travel assistance) is available to U.S. citizens and does not affect admission.

Who can apply

GradesGrades 11–12

Min GPA—

ScopeNational

StatesAll states

FieldsCreative Writing · Personal Essay · Fiction · Poetry · Screenwriting

Logistics

Cost to you$3,000

Financial aidAvailable

StipendNone

FormatResidential

Length10 days

WherePhiladelphia, PA (University of Pennsylvania campus)

Applying

OpensTypically opens early February

DueNot yet posted (2026 cycle closed March 2)

You submit300-word personal essay, 8-10 page writing sample, high school transcript, and a teacher recommendation letter

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