Admissions
Everything you need to know about how to apply for the HarperCollins Author Academy
Eligibility
The HarperCollins Author Academy offers free training to support writers from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds. To be eligible to apply to any of the Author Academy courses applicants must:
Be 18 years old or over at the date of course commencement.
Be resident in the UK or Ireland
Make applications in the English language
Not be represented by a literary agent at the date of course commencement
Have internet access and a computer or laptop with camera
Be available to take part in the live classes (see below for details)
How to Apply
Applications for the next cohort of the Author Academy open on 8 January 2026, and will close on 6 February.
Applications are submitted via the BeApplied platform and candidates are asked to answer two assessment questions and submit either a sample of their writing or a manuscript proposal. Click to read more
All responses to assessment questions must reflect the candidate’s own work and capabilities. Use of AI tools or external assistance in the Author Academy application process is not permitted. We use an AI tracker when reviewing material, and any applications found to have used AI will be disqualified.
There are places for 15 students on each course. Applications will be reviewed by blind selection for a fair, consistent, and inclusive process. We will notify successful applicants by email.
You may only apply for yourself and not on behalf of another person.