If I could take the amount of writing classes I wanted, I would need a lot more time and a lot more money. The Time Turner from Harry Potter only solves one of those problems. The other problem could be solved with one lucky lottery ticket (or a kind soul who wants to give me a million dollars, which is always encouraged).

Thankfully, there are writing centers with plenty of classes offered throughout the year, many taught by award-winning, accomplished writers. But enrolling in classes can get pricey, even if the classes are still cheaper than an unfunded MFA (which I’ve heard is NOT worth going into debt for. Ever. No matter how badly you want to be back in school again.).

Classes from nonprofit organizations, individual writing professionals, and many more are included on the list along with information on how to apply for merit and need-based scholarships. Sometimes, you can snag a discount!

Offer writing courses, scholarships, or discounts? Reach out to me so I can add you to the list!.

This list is updated as of May of 2023. Bookmark this page to keep tabs on further updates.

Scholarship and Other Etiquette

Remember, applying for scholarships meant for marginalized people are meant for them only. Don’t complain when these scholarships are offered. You know the kinds of complaints I mean. We need equitable opportunities for talented writers of all backgrounds, so refrain from being a wet napkin and seek out opportunities open to you. If you don’t get one, keep looking and don’t give up!

Writing Workshops with Scholarships

Hugo House

Based in Seattle, Hugo House hosts both in-person, asynchronous, and Zoom courses. They offer scholarships to anyone in need, so long as you fill out the application. It will ask what you’d like to learn from the course, if you’ve ever participated in their writing programs or a similar program, and any factors limiting your ability to pay for the course. They grant up to two scholarships (two classes) per year per person.

Early bird rates are also available if you sign up for a course in advance. Discounts range from $10 to $30 off, depending on how early you sign up. Certain events, like their Write-O-Rama class sampling conference can give you an idea of which instructors and courses work for you for a reduced price and the chance to snag a discounted membership.

Occasionally, they will offer free courses. They are marked with FREE and the title of the course (pretty easy, right?).

The Writer’s Center

Based out of Washington DC, The Writer’s Center offers both in-person and online courses.

They offer the Ann McLaughlin Scholarship Fund to help writers with financial need enroll in one of their eight-week classes. All you need to do to apply is to fill out the application and send a 500 word written statement about how the scholarship would positively impact you as well as any relevant circumstances.

Want to take it up a notch? Their Compass Fellowship offers $1,000 worth of credit towards their classes within a two-year period and a cash stipend of $300. The trick is that you need to be from either Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia and be able to travel to Bethesda as needed. You will also be expected to write two pieces for The Writer’s Center Magazine among other duties.

Grub Street

Remote and in-person classes are available from the Massachusetts-based writing center. Divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses, you can take Grub Street courses on prose and poetry. Scholarships for teens and adults, some reserved specifically for genderqueer, transgender, and nonbinary writers (remember what we talked about with scholarship etiquette. Unless you qualify, then go apply!).

Life in 10 Minutes and Richmond Young Writers

If you are local to Richmond, Virginia or are able to take Zoom courses, both Life in 10 Minutes and Richmond Young Writers offer partial or full scholarships to cover classes for adults, teens, and children. Should be based on need. More details can be found here.

Classes Offering Discounts

Many writing centers and other places that offer writing workshops with discounts. Some require memberships and others may offer early bird discounts. During certain times of the year, such as the holidays or the start or end of a reasons, you may notice specials and discounted prices on classes!

Creative Nonfiction

***Update for 2023: At this time, Creative Nonfiction (both the classes and the publication) is on hiatus and there has not been much news on if/when classes will return. However, several people on the staff have extended their offerings on their own sites.

With early bird discounts, you can enroll in an online course through Creative Nonfiction for $50 less than list price. They also have the Refer-A-Friend discount where if you and a friend enroll in a course for the same term, you’ll both get $25 off of your classes.

If their instructor-guided classes are still out of price range, their self-guided courses are very affordable at just $29.99.

I’ve personally taken both kinds of courses through Creative Nonfiction and greatly benefitted from both. The instructor-led courses are often asynchronous, meaning that you can join in at anytime and not have any scheduled meetings. Some classes have optional meetings for those who wish to interact in real time. The instructors are knowledgeable and have real-life experience publishing their work in their niche. My favorite course so far has been the Spirituality Writing class!

Their self-guided courses have correlated readings, prompts, and discussion boards to complete. However, instead of instructor feedback, you just get feedback from your classmates. Thankfully, many of the participants have a background in writing or are enthusiastic about the course, giving you plenty of valuable information for the money.

Gotham Writers

Gotham Writers opened in 1993 and continues to be a massive platform for adult writing learners. In 1997, they launched their online education program, still running strong with basic writing courses, grammar refreshers, and themed classes.

If you enroll in one course through Gotham Writers, you are eligible for a $30 Returning Student discount on future 10-week classes. In person and Zoom courses available. If you’re based in NYC, Monday Matinee classes are offered at a reduced rate. Keep an eye out for writing conferences that offer craft advice or chances to connect with agents.

Muse Writing & Creative Support

Offering classes, coaching, and editing services, Muse Writing & Creative Support is a small but mighty team of writing mentors. They offer both self-guided as well as interactive courses.

I previously enrolled in a self-guided course at Creative Nonfiction on speculative nonfiction taught by founder Joanna Penn Cooper. I enjoyed the unique readings, interaction with other participants, and the ease of using Wet Ink. I enjoyed it so much, I enrolled in their “The Call: A Self-Guided Course on Creative Witness” once I saw it was available.

Muse Writing also uses Wet Ink (like many of the organizations listed here), which guides you effortlessly through lessons, recorded lectures, and writing assignments.

Some courses offer Early Bird Pricing and sliding scale payment options, depending on the course. It helps to check back and refresh the courses tab to find out what is coming next and opportunities for discounted pricing.