Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The Iceland Writers Retreat Alumni Award 2027 provides financial assistance to writers who would otherwise be unable to attend this prestigious international writing retreat. Funded entirely by IWR alumni and supporters, the award program brings diverse voices to the retreat community. For 2027, both full and partial awards are available following a successful fundraising campaign.
The retreat takes place in Reykjavík, Iceland, offering workshops with acclaimed faculty in literary fiction, non-fiction, and memoir. The award specifically targets writers who demonstrate both creative potential and genuine financial need.
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What the Award Covers
Applicants must choose between two funding categories. Select carefully based on your actual circumstances, as full funding applications are significantly more competitive.
Full Funding
- Standard retreat package (5 classes + 1 day trip)
- Four nights accommodation in Reykjavík (location may differ from retreat hotel)
- Round-trip airfare from a major international airport
Not covered: Airport transfers, travel insurance, visas, meals outside the itinerary, and personal incidentals. The organizers provide supporting letters for visa applications but do not facilitate visa issuance.
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Partial Funding
- Standard retreat package only (5 classes + 1 day trip)
- No flights or accommodation included
Eligibility Requirements
The award welcomes applicants from all countries and writing backgrounds. Key requirements include:
- Minimum age 18 by April 14, 2027 (retreat start date)
- Writing interests aligned with 2027 faculty (literary fiction, non-fiction, memoir)
- Demonstrated financial need
- Not a family member of judges or past IWR participant
Writers from Zimbabwe and the SADC region are explicitly welcome. The selection committee values applicants who have had limited access to writing retreats or formal development opportunities.
Required Documents
Prepare these materials before beginning your application:
- Statement of impact: Explain why you are applying and how you will share your IWR experience afterward
- Creative writing sample: Maximum 1,000 words of prose (fiction, non-fiction, or memoir)
- Two references: PDFs attached directly to application; must be from non-family members familiar with your writing life; references written specifically for this award receive higher consideration
- Financial need acknowledgment: Honest explanation of why attendance is beyond your means without support
Important: References must be uploaded with your application. Email submissions are not accepted.
Application Process
- Review faculty lineup to confirm alignment with your writing interests
- Prepare all required documents, including reference PDFs
- Pay $10 USD non-refundable application fee
- Submit via Award Force platform during open window
- Confirm submission before deadline—changes cannot be made after submission
Applications open September 16, 2026 and close at 11:59 p.m. GMT on October 15, 2026. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Selection Process
A team of IWR alumni reviews all applications. Final selections are made by IWR founding directors Eliza Reid and Erica Green. Selection weighs two factors equally:
- Demonstrated potential as a writer (quality of writing sample)
- Financial need and inability to attend without support
For full funding specifically, you must demonstrate inability to afford flights and accommodation. The committee also considers whether you have sought additional funding sources—initiative in securing attendance is viewed favorably.
Recipients will be announced by late November 2026.
Tips for African Applicants
Given the competitive nature of this award:
- Emphasize limited access to international writing retreats in your statement
- Secure references from writing mentors, workshop leaders, or published authors who know your work
- Research flight costs from your nearest major international airport to demonstrate genuine need
- Begin visa research early—Iceland Schengen requirements apply
- Consider applying for partial funding if you can secure accommodation through other means
About the Iceland Writers Retreat
Founded by Eliza Reid and Erica Green, the Iceland Writers Retreat has established itself as a significant gathering for writers worldwide. The alumni-funded award program reflects the community’s commitment to accessibility and diversity. Past recipients include writers from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and across the African continent.
The 2027 retreat runs from April 14, 2027 in Reykjavík.
Official scholarship page: https://icelandwritersretreat.com/scholarships/
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
