FAQ

  • Does it matter what kind of piece I send in as my writing sample?

    We welcome all types of writers. Ideally, your sample should reflect the kind of writing (fiction, nonfiction, poetry, academic, plays/screenplays) you hope to work on while at Convent.

  • What time is check-in? check-out?

    Check-in is 3:00pm EDT on June 23rd. Check-out is 10:00am EDT on June 30th.

  • How many artists are in residence?

    There will be 10 writers in residence this year.

  • Does Convent provide financial aid for travel to and from the retreat?

    No. Sadly, we cannot provide financial support to our residents in getting to and from Cape May. We hope to offer grants for travel in the future, so please check back in next year.

  • Does Convent accept international artists?

    International artists are welcome to apply, granted that they can get to Convent by their own means. We do not provide an interpreter, so a working knowledge of English is preferred. For the application, writing samples must be in English.

  • "Convent" sounds pretty religious. Is this a Christian retreat?

    No. Convent is simply a writers’ retreat held in a building which used to be called “Saint Mary’s by the Sea.” The building operated as a seaside retreat for nuns from 1909 until 2020, and in 2022 it became the Cape May Point Science Center.

  • I would have to miss a day or more of the retreat. Can I still apply?

    As space is limited, we want to select people who are able to make the most of their Convent experience. Apply next year!

  • May I defer attendance if accepted?

    No. But, you can apply again next year!

  • I have never been published. Should I still apply to Convent?

    Yes! We welcome writers of all backgrounds and experience levels.

  • I am a world famous novelist. What about me?

    That’s cool too!

  • What’s a typical day like at Convent?

    Writers will observe “quiet hours” from 9am to 5pm and are expected to attend communal dinners at 7. Optional evening events will be offered each day. Besides that, Convent offers no programming. Feel free to swim, explore the beach, walk the trails of the neighboring bird observatory, visit Cape May’s historic town center filled with Victorian gingerbread style homes, or strike up a chat with the avid ecologists and wildlife enthusiasts sharing our facilities.

  • Writing by the beach while surrounded by butterflies… That sounds too good to be true!

    Believe it.

  • Is Convent wheelchair accessible?

    Yes.

  • Does Convent accommodate dietary restrictions?

    The kitchen cannot offer meals for special diets, but vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives will be provided.

  • Are pets allowed?

    No. Aside from service animals, no pets are allowed.

  • May I bring a guest or family?

    No. Use of the facilities is permitted by fellows only.

  • Does Convent publicize artists?

    No. However, if you are posting on social media and you tag us, we may share your post. If you record another guest and/or their creative work, please be sure that all parties have granted permission.

  • Are there medical facilities nearby?

    Yes. There is an urgent care approximately 10 minutes away and a hospital 20 minutes away. Please note, however, that there is no medical care offered on-site at Convent.

  • Do i need to bring my own beach gear?

    Nope. We have you covered with towels, chairs, and umbrellas. Bring your own SPF.

  • Does convent provide supplies?

    Writers will have access to a printer.