Writing Samples for Graduate Schools

Most graduate schools will ask for at least 5-10 pages of writing samples. Writing samples show what kinds of documents you can produce and the strength of your writing.

If a graduate school asks for a specific kind of writing (such as analytical) or a specific kind of document (web content, journal articles, instruction set, etc.) make sure to include those kinds of documents within your writing samples. Many schools will ask you to submit writing that demonstrates your analytical or critical thinking skills.

You can also include other writing samples that relate to your field of interest or demonstrate your strongest skills. Include at least three documents so the graduate school can get an idea of the kinds of documents you can produce. Include a variety of documents rather than three of the same kind of document. If you have an online portfolio, it never hurts to include the link.

Writing samples can come from a number of different places and contexts. Documents you’ve created in class are perfectly acceptable to submit. If you have documents from a job or professional setting that you feel adequately show your strengths related to the graduate program, don’t hesitate to use them. You can also use documents you’ve created for clubs or organizations you’re involved in. Writing samples can come from any experience you’ve had, but make sure they relate to the program or show your writing skills and strengths.

Writing Sample Documents

• Memos
• Analytical reports
• Website content
• Blog posts
• Journal articles
• Published works
• Essays
• Emails
• Instruction sets
• Posters/flyers
• Press releases
• Campaign proposals