Most residency programs have specific guidelines on what is required to apply; however, there are some general things you can do that will prepare you for any residency.

Documentation

You should have a well-documented history of your work. Documentation should be done by a professional, whenever possible. The quality of your materials reflects the quality of your work. It is also important that your documentation is in an appropriate format (eg, slides vs. digital photos; cassettes or DATs vs. CDs). Most residency programs make clear in their guidelines what format you should use. If you’re not sure, it’s a good idea to contact the artists’ community to determine what formats they prefer.

Artistic Statement

You should prepare a statement about your work. Many residency programs require this as part of the application. Even if such a statement is not specifically required, it is helpful to be able to articulate your personal artistic statement.

What you intend to do while in residence

Artists’ communities focus on the process, rather than the product, of art. However, some residency programs ask what you plan to do while in residence. Even if you are applying to a program that does not require such a statement, you may find it helpful to consider this.

Financial Preparedness

While many residency programs do not charge fees to artists, it is important to plan for the financial impact of being away from your home/job/regular life for any period of time (see cost in "Choosing the right residency for you")

Mental Preparedness

No one can tell you how you will experience your residency. No two artists’ communities are alike, and the staff and other artists in residence will vary as well. While some find isolation to be inspiring, others struggle with the solitude and separation from families. Choosing the right residency depends on what environment is best for you, among many other things. You may find it helpful to ask friends or colleagues who have attended residency programs what their experiences have been, and many artists’ communities have "Survival Guides" that will help you to know what to expect. The MacDowell Colony’s Roadmap to a Residency offers some insight – from application to the return to life after a residency – from ten former artists-in-residence.