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Iowa Young Writers' Studio Summer Residential Program
Iowa Writers' Workshop writing intensive
Iowa Young Writers' Studio Summer Residential Program is a program by University of Iowa for students in Class 9–12. Registration closes 1 Feb 2026.
Mode
In-Person
Eligibility
Class 9–12
Fee
$2,500
Duration
2 weeks
Format
Individual
Time needed
Full-time residential, 2 weeks
Key Dates
- Registration opens
- 19 Jan 2026
- Registration closes
- 1 Feb 2026
- Dates
- 14 Jun 2026 – 25 Jul 2026
University of Iowa campus, Iowa City, Iowa
About This Opportunity
The Iowa Young Writers' Studio (IYWS) Summer Residential Program is a selective, two-week intensive writing retreat held at the University of Iowa in Iowa City. Affiliated with the legendary Iowa Writers' Workshop, IYWS brings together approximately 100 talented high school writers from across the country each summer for an immersive creative writing experience.
Students work in small genre-specific workshops (fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting) led by accomplished published authors and University of Iowa MFA instructors. Each day combines workshop critique sessions, craft lectures, writing time, and readings by visiting authors. Students develop their craft across multiple genres and receive individualized attention to their work.
The program provides a college dormitory experience that gives participants a genuine preview of university creative writing education. Financial aid is available for eligible students based on demonstrated need. A small application fee of $10 is required.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 9–12
- Age Range
- 14 - 18 years
- Location
Academic requirement
Demonstrated talent in creative writing; competitive selection based on writing portfolio and personal essay
Prerequisites
- Prior creative writing experience; applicants submit a portfolio of original writing samples
Additional requirements
- Must be a current high school student (grades 9-12) at time of application
- Open to students from any country
Open to current high school students in grades 9-12 from anywhere in the world. Selection is competitive based on a creative writing sample (poetry or prose) and personal essay.
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Academic Details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
Genre-specific workshops (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, screenwriting) combining daily critique sessions, craft lectures, writing time, and author readings
Rewards & Recognition
Certificate
Certificate of completion from University of Iowa
Participants receive a certificate of completion from the Iowa Young Writers' Studio at the University of Iowa.
Opens doors to
IYWS affiliation with the Iowa Writers' Workshop is recognized by college admissions and MFA programs as a mark of serious creative writing talent.
Recognition
Affiliated with world's premier writers' program
Skills your child builds
Languages
What your child will do
- Small group workshop critique sessions
- Craft lectures by published authors
- Independent writing time
- Visiting author readings
- Campus exploration and social events
Mentors & faculty
Published authors, University of Iowa MFA instructors, and Iowa Writers' Workshop graduate students
How to apply
- 1Pay $10 application fee and submit online application including creative writing sample (5-10 pages prose or 3-5 poems) and personal essay by February 1, 2026.
- 2Acceptance decisions with financial aid information sent
- 3Accepted students confirm enrollment and submit required forms
Fees & financial support
Fee details
Program fee is approximately $2,500 USD covering tuition, housing, and meals for the two-week residential program. A $10 non-refundable application fee is also required.
Financial support
Need-based financial aid is available. Students who demonstrate financial need may receive partial or full scholarships. Aid application is submitted after acceptance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to register for Iowa Young Writers' Studio Summer Residential Program?
The registration deadline is 1 Feb 2026.
Is Iowa Young Writers' Studio Summer Residential Program free?
$2,500 registration
Who can participate in Iowa Young Writers' Studio Summer Residential Program?
Students in Class 9–12. children aged 14-18.
What will my child gain from Iowa Young Writers' Studio Summer Residential Program?
Affiliated with the legendary Iowa Writers' Workshop. Small genre-specific workshops with published authors and Iowa MFA instructors. Two-week immersive residential experience on a major university campus. Financial aid available based on demonstrated need.
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