Tin House Reading Fellowship

The Tin House Reading Fellowship offers emerging writers and aspiring editors a rare, hands-on introduction to the inner workings of literary publishing. More than a traditional internship, the fellowship is designed to immerse participants in the full editorial process, from manuscript evaluation to production insights, providing a behind-the-scenes education that few writers ever experience. Bridging the gap between creative writing and the professional practices of publishing, the program equips fellows with the tools, industry knowledge, and connections needed to launch meaningful careers in the literary world.

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What the Fellowship Offers

The Tin House Reading Fellowship is structured to give participants practical skills, professional exposure, and industry connections that extend far beyond the program itself.

• Editorial Training: Fellows work side by side with Tin House editors to review and evaluate incoming submissions across fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. This hands-on training develops the ability to recognize voice, structure, and originality—key qualities editors look for when selecting publishable work. For writers, this experience sharpens their own craft by showing them what stands out in a crowded submissions queue. For aspiring editors, it provides direct, applicable training in the evaluation process.

• Industry Insight: Fellows gain behind-the-scenes access to one of the most respected literary magazines in the country. They observe the entire editorial pipeline, from first-read evaluations and manuscript discussions to acquisition, curation, and final production decisions. This level of access demystifies the publishing process, revealing how choices are made and what it takes to move a piece from submission to publication.

• Mentorship and Networking: In addition to technical training, fellows are mentored by Tin House staff and connected with contributors and alumni who are shaping today’s literary landscape. These relationships not only strengthen editorial and writing skills but also expand professional networks. Past fellows have gone on to secure roles at publishing houses, literary agencies, and magazines—evidence of how the fellowship serves as both a training ground and a gateway into the industry.

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Who Can Apply?

The Tin House Reading Fellowship welcomes applications from individuals who are eager to deepen their understanding of literature, editing, and the publishing industry. While prior experience in writing, editing, or publishing can be beneficial, it is not a requirement. The program values diverse perspectives and actively encourages applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, academic disciplines, and life experiences.

Ideal candidates are passionate readers with a strong interest in storytelling and literary culture, whether they are emerging writers seeking to refine their editorial eye, aspiring editors looking to gain industry knowledge, or individuals from adjacent fields who wish to transition into publishing. Tin House is particularly committed to amplifying underrepresented voices in the literary community and encourages applications from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and first-generation college graduates, as well as those who bring nontraditional experiences to the field.

By prioritizing inclusivity and diversity of thought, the fellowship ensures a dynamic cohort where each fellow contributes unique insights to the editorial process. This openness makes the program accessible to anyone ready to engage deeply with contemporary literature and the publishing landscape.

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What Does the Fellowship Entail?

The Tin House Workshop Reading Fellowship is a 12-month paid program that runs from August through July each year, designed to blend professional training with opportunities for creative growth. Fellows gain valuable experience in arts administration, strengthen their critical reading and evaluation skills, and directly contribute to shaping Tin House’s nationally recognized workshop and residency programs.

Fellows play an active role in program development, assisting in the selection of workshop participants and residents. By reviewing applications and providing input on admissions decisions, they help ensure the programs highlight a diverse, dynamic mix of writers. This work provides a deeper understanding of how literary programs are curated and how editorial judgment influences the broader literary landscape.

Beyond administrative training, the fellowship is designed to support professional and creative growth. Fellows are invited to participate in online classes, craft lectures, and meetings with Tin House Books staff, offering exposure to publishing professionals and opportunities to sharpen their own writing. This balance of professional duties and personal development makes the fellowship a uniquely holistic experience.

The program culminates in a week-long writing residency at the Tin House Summer Workshop, where fellows step away from administrative tasks and focus entirely on their own creative projects. This residency not only provides uninterrupted writing time but also embeds fellows in a vibrant community of faculty and peers, ensuring they leave the fellowship with both professional skills and meaningful progress on their work.

By the end of the year, fellows emerge with a stronger editorial eye, practical industry knowledge, and a more established writing practice—making the program a true launchpad for careers in both publishing and literature.

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Eligibility and Application Process

The Tin House Workshop Reading Fellowship is currently open exclusively to alumni of the Tin House Workshop or Residency programs. This ensures that fellows already have a grounding in Tin House’s mission and community, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to program development while continuing to grow in their own literary practice.

Applications are reviewed by both Tin House Workshop staff and current Reading Fellows. Selection is based on several key components: a writing sample that demonstrates craft and promise, an artist statement outlining creative goals, residency plans that show how the fellowship will support long-term growth, and the applicant’s alignment with Tin House’s core values of inclusivity, literary excellence, and community engagement.

Application timelines, deadlines, and detailed requirements may vary from year to year. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official Tin House website or reach out directly to the organization. This ensures applicants have the latest details on eligibility, required materials, and deadlines before preparing their submissions.

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A Final Word

The Tin House Reading Fellowship is both collaborative and immersive, giving participants the rare chance to contribute directly to one of the most respected literary communities in the country. For writers, it provides invaluable perspective by shifting to the editor’s seat—sharpening submission strategies, strengthening craft, and deepening understanding of what makes work stand out in today’s competitive market. For aspiring editors, it serves as a direct pathway into the publishing world, offering the training, mentorship, and connections needed to launch a career in literary publishing.

The impact of Tin House fellowships and programs is reflected in the achievements of past participants. Notable alumni who have been part of Tin House workshops and fellowship programs include Ocean Vuong (On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous), Carmen Maria Machado (Her Body and Other Parties), and Ada Limón, the current U.S. Poet Laureate. Each of these writers has spoken to the importance of mentorship, editorial guidance, and literary community in their development—core principles at the heart of the Reading Fellowship.

By investing in emerging talent, Tin House strengthens the literary ecosystem and ensures that the next generation of voices is as diverse and dynamic as the readership it serves. Whether you are a writer seeking to refine your skills or an aspiring editor hoping to gain practical, professional experience, the Reading Fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow within a community that has nurtured some of today’s most influential literary figures.

Continue reading: Ocean Vuong: Lyrical Mastery Redefining Contemporary Poetry and Prose.