Applications for the 2025-2026 Emerging Critics Fellowship are due by Friday, May 9, 2025, at 11:59 PM Pacific.
Apply at nbcc.submittable.com.
The National Book Critics Circle’s Emerging Critics Fellowship seeks to identify, nurture, and support the development of the next generation of book critics.
ELIGIBILITY
The Emerging Critics Fellowship is open to critics of all experience levels who seek to review and write about books for print and digital outlets. Applicants may or may not have previously published book reviews. The NBCC seeks a broad range of diverse applicants, especially those who have demonstrated a genuine interest and commitment to engaging in a critical conversation about books. Applicants must be 21 years or older.
Applicants do not need to be U.S. permanent residents and/or citizens to apply. However, applicants should be available to participate in mandatory Emerging Critics Fellowship programming and events for the duration of their term, including virtual workshops, events, and gatherings (scheduled during evenings/weekends, Eastern/Pacific Time Zones). Applicants must also be willing to communicate regularly with mentors and their fellow emerging critics via email, phone, and message board. The NBCC Emerging Critics Program is an interactive, participatory program guided by the philosophy that critical thought can be fostered and enriched through dialogue within a cohort of similarly-interested critics.
At the NBCC, we are invested in encouraging people who are great thinkers and writers but who need support along the path to becoming an active critic. Our fellowship aims to break down financial and geographical barriers for emerging critics. In particular, BIPOC critics, LGBTQIA+ critics, critics with disabilities, and critics from historically resilient communities are encouraged to apply.
THE FELLOWSHIP
Over the course of the one-year fellowship, emerging critics will receive:
- One-on-one mentorship from board members
- Small group Q&A with board members
- Small group professional development/ craft lectures over Zoom
- Dues-free NBCC membership, admission to NBCC events, and annual reception for one year
TO APPLY via Submittable:
Fill out the contact form: include your name/pronunciation, pronouns, phone number, email address, website, two references (with contact info), and a short bio (50-100 words)
Upload as attachments:
- Resume/CV
- Statement of purpose (300-500 words): What are your interests as a critic? How will you benefit from the NBCC Emerging Critics Fellowship program? Why are you an ideal candidate?
- 3 writing samples that demonstrate your ability to think critically
Please be mindful of the specific application requirements. Incomplete applications will be disqualified. Late applications will not be accepted. Please submit early to avoid technical issues.
