The HKBU International Writers Workshop 2026 offers emerging and established writers a fully funded opportunity to participate in a prestigious 4-week creative writing residency at Hong Kong Baptist University. This competitive program provides travel funding, accommodation, and mentorship from globally renowned authors in the heart of Asia’s world city.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the workshop benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadlines to help you secure this transformative literary opportunity.
Workshop Overview
📋 Key Details
✅ Host Institution: Hong Kong Baptist University
✅ Location: Hong Kong (Kowloon Tong Campus)
✅ Program Type: Fully Funded Writing Residency
✅ Duration: 4 weeks
✅ Application Deadline: September 7th, 2025
✍️ About the Workshop
- Established in 2004
- Alumni include Booker Prize nominees
- Focus on cross-cultural literary exchange
- Bilingual (English/Chinese) environment
- Partnership with 20+ international publishers
Financial Benefits
The fully funded residency includes:
✔ Round-Trip Airfare (Economy class)
✔ Private Apartment near campus
✔ Daily Stipend: HK$500 (≈$65)
✔ Health Insurance
✔ Visa Support
✔ Publication Opportunities in HKBU anthologies
✔ Access to Rare Archives at Hong Kong Literary Centre
Eligibility Criteria
🎓 Professional Background
- Published authors (Minimum 1 book or 5 literary publications)
- Emerging writers with strong unpublished portfolios
- All genres welcome:
- Fiction
- Poetry
- Creative Nonfiction
- Playwriting
🌐 General Requirements
- All nationalities eligible
- English or Chinese proficiency
- Commitment to full residency period
- Passion for cultural exchange
Program Structure
📅 Weekly Schedule
- Mornings: Masterclasses with faculty
- Afternoons:
- Writing workshops
- Hong Kong cultural immersion
- Evenings:
- Author readings
- Literary salons
🎤 Special Features
- Editor consultations with major publishers
- Field trips to literary landmarks
- Manuscript development support
- Translation workshops
Required Documents
Prepare these PDF files:
📄 Writing Samples (15-20 pages)
📄 Project Proposal (500 words)
📄 Literary CV (Publications, awards)
📄 2 Recommendation Letters
📄 Passport Copy
📄 Published Works (If applicable)
Application Process
📝 Step-by-Step Guide
- Review Guidelines → HKBU Literature Department
- Prepare Materials → June-August 2025
- Online Submission → Via HKBU portal
- Review Process → September-October 2025
- Interview Stage → November 2025
- Final Selection → December 2025
Selection Criteria
Applications evaluated on:
✔ Literary Merit (40%)
✔ Cultural Perspective (25%)
✔ Workshop Contribution Potential (20%)
✔ Professional Achievements (15%)
🎯 Why Apply?
- Work with Nobel literature laureates
- Immerse in Hong Kong’s literary scene
- Develop manuscripts with top editors
- Join influential alumni network
- Experience East-West cultural fusion
Click Here to Apply for
HKBU International Writers Workshop 2026
For more fully funded writing residencies, visit GOGEDU!
FAQs
❓ Is Chinese language required?
🇨🇳 No, English-only writers accepted
❓ Can playwrights/screenwriters apply?
🎭 Yes, all writing disciplines considered
❓ What’s the acceptance rate?
🏆 Highly competitive (~7% selection rate)
❓ Are family members accommodated?
👨👩👧👦 No, housing is single-occupancy
❓ Can I extend my stay?
⏳ Possible with personal funding
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