M.F.A. Aid and Awards
Standard Financial Support
The University Fellowship for every M.F.A. student in Creative Writing includes full tuition remission, health insurance, and a stipend of $36,500. Additionally, second- and third-year students have the opportunity to teach a beginning creative writing workshop for one semester.
Additional Support Options
- Graduate School Travel Grants: Up to $1,000 per trip. Graduate students in good standing are eligible to apply for these grants, and may apply for three Graduate School Travel Grants (maximum one per year) over their tenure in the program.
- The Provost’s Graduate Fellowship (PGF): $5,000 annual merit-based topping-up award. This award supplements the student’s base stipend for up to five years (three years initially and renewable for two). The PGF is merit-based and recognizes students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. PGF awards are competitive among applicants to all graduate programs at the University.
Awards
Kathryn Sedberry Poetry Prize
Awarded to a third-year MFA Poetry student.
The Academy of American Poets Prize
Established in 1955 to encourage interest in poetry and writing among college students. All students enrolled at Vanderbilt University are eligible. The winner receives a cash award and a one-year membership to the Academy of American Poets.