The International Writers’ Workshop (IWW) at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) invites writers from around the world to apply for its 2026 Writers-in-Residence Programme, which will take place from March 2 to March 29, 2026.
Since its establishment in 2004, the workshop has hosted more than 150 writers from over 55 countries. The residency concludes with a literary festival organized by the workshop, titled “Here and There.” Applicants are encouraged to submit works related to this theme, though it is not mandatory.
About the University
Hong Kong Baptist University is a publicly funded institution known for its emphasis on creative media and artistic practice. It offers distinctive opportunities for research and teaching in areas such as: creative writing, film and screen studies, literary studies, music, theoretical and applied translation, and visual arts. The literary residency program is one of the leading initiatives of its kind in Asia and reflects the university’s deep commitment to literature and the arts.
What Does the Programme Offer?
- Round-trip airfare (economy class).
- On-campus accommodation for 4 weeks.
- Daily stipend for living expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must have at least one published book.
- Must currently reside outside of Hong Kong.
- Must have working proficiency in English or Chinese (Mandarin or Cantonese).
Program Requirements
- Full attendance during the residency period (March 2–29, 2026).
- Participation in the Welcome Reception during the first week.
- Participation in the Literary Festival during the final week. Writers are encouraged, though not required, to present work that aligns with the festival’s theme, “Here and There.”
Required Documents
- A one-page artistic statement (single-spaced) in English or Chinese, explaining the writer’s work and goals for the residency. If written in Chinese, a one-paragraph summary in English must also be included.
- 12 to 15 pages of recent work (e.g., creative prose, digital writing, drama, fiction, graphic forms, poetry, or lyrics). If the original work is not in English or Chinese, a translation into one of these languages must be provided.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or professional résumé.
- Contact information for two referees, including their email addresses.
- All documents must use 12-point font with 1-inch margins.
How to Apply
- All documents must be submitted as a single PDF file via email to: [email protected]
- Application Deadline: September 7, 2025
- Selected applicants will be notified by late October 2025.
- For inquiries, please contact the International Writers’ Workshop at: [email protected]
