Hi DWD,
You're a great brother to look out for your sister and ask this question. I'm in my second semester at VCFA in their Writing program and love it, but I'll confess when I first started researching MFA programs I wasn't that familiar with it and was a bit skeptical as a result. I was also surprised that I didn't need a GRE, but that seems typical with MFA programs. Frankly, it's hard for me to imagine what a GRE score would bring to an MFA admissions office; for a low-residency MFA program, they need to know that 1) you can write, and 2) you can work without an instructor standing over your shoulder.
I first had to learn about low-residency programs, and lenegary does a great job of describing how VCFA works, which I think structurally is not unlike other low-res programs. I know that VCFA was a pioneer in the format, however. I love the low-res format for three reasons: 1) I'm a working professional, and couldn't possibly go to a full-year on-campus program. 2) I can't imagine anything at a traditional MFA program rivals the intensity of learning and bonding that you find in a 10-day residency. 3) I am loving the individual attention I get from my semester advisor--detailed critique of my work, advice and guidance on what to read and how to grow my craft, and regular support to help stay motivated.
When I first settled on low-res I was focused first on Bennington, largely because I had heard of it. VCFA only offers MFA programs; Bennington has a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. I believe Bennington also has a great program--it's also ranked high in Poets & Writers and has great faculty, just as VCFA does--but when I was accepted to both I looked at each more carefully. I found VCFA's administration and faculty far more responsive to me as a potential student, and I found as I spoke to alums that VCFA has a large and passionate alumni network, which includes highly talented and accomplished writers. I can now attest to this community, most recently when I was one of 10,000 attending the annual AWP writer's conference in Chicago and was overwhelmed by all of the VCFAers I met and connected with there. I know I made the right choice with VCFA.
Your sister needs to decided if VCFA is right for her. What I can tell you is she'll get an outstanding education, from excellent faculty, in a nurturing environment, and a long history of graduating stellar writers.
Best,
Patrick
