masters architecture personal statement

Sample Architecture Personal Statement (admitted to Cambridge, Cornell, Yale)

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to top graduate programs in architecture. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at Cambridge, Cornell, and Yale. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in architecture should look like.

Here is the personal statement of the Architecure Student.

I am not particularly fond of tea. However, while working in the Northern regions of XYZ, I realized that sharing a cup of tea was considered a symbol of gratitude by its hospitable populace. This simple gesture transcended the commonplace and made our work for the community all the more personal.

For several weeks I shared many cups of the sugary beverage while volunteering with the Heritage Foundation constructing homes for the people of the XYZ. Their entire dwellings had been destroyed by the floods, and it came to us, a group of young architecture students, to revive this once-thriving community.

The process from etching the lines of chalk for the Women’s Community Centre to seeing it constructed into a beautiful bamboo building to be used for gainful employment is one that affected me deeply. The structures we built stand supported throughout the seasons, representing the enduring strength of the people of the XYZ. By helping to re-establish an entire community affected by an unprecedented natural calamity, I became aware of the power of architectural design to incite social change. Also, the focus on sustainable structures made me realize how designers need to focus on the available resources and capacities of the community they are involved in.

This experience was pivotal in realizing the path I wanted to take as an architect. My fascination with creating and manipulating space, seen from an early age by my experimentation with a Wendy Tent, went to the root of my desire to become an architect. Furthermore, the stories I had heard growing up about my ancestral home in XYZ, a city known for its scorching heat; as well as my childhood divided between XYZ, a country oblivious to any form of energy deficiency, and XYZ, a country struggling with shortages in resources have all served to underscore how design needs to adapt and address the social issues of its environment. This instilled within me a desire to work towards making my homeland self-sustaining.

To channel my proclivity, I applied to the country’s top architecture school, and my joy, I was accepted. During my five years at the XYZ, I studied the fundamental nature of the architectural design. I found its intricacies to be a maze that beckoned alluringly to me. Elected as the Vice President of the Architecture Students’ Association, I was in a position to influence how students would perceive architecture. I led the team representing XYZ and XYZ at the National Architectural Student Convention held in XYZ.

My team was honored with the prestigious Citation Prize for the Rubens Trophy. This victory awarded our design from amongst those submitted from more than a hundred universities. It proved to be a tremendous boost to my belief in achieving the career goals that I had set for myself. It also allowed me to develop a global understanding of architectural design. The following year, I volunteered to go to XYZ, an experience that left an indelible mark on my mind.

I returned with vigor to realize architecture’s power in shaping my community and channeled my motivation into my thesis project. I managed to study the overwhelmingly bustling historic urban center of XYZ and analyzed its context, which resulted in providing macro-level sustainable design solutions. A culmination of my efforts and passion, this project was awarded an ‘honors’ in my thesis.

I followed through with my academic goals by seeking employment at a firm that avidly incorporates sustainability in its design practices. After working at SR Design Works, I was reassured of the practical applications of the theoretical knowledge I attained as part of my undergraduate degree. Furthermore, with a conscious desire to be part of responsible design practices, I became associated with upcoming advocates of green building design. However, at the same time, I also grew aware that to achieve my aims, I would need further education.

While working on individual projects which incorporated the principles of sustainable design, I was exposed to the prospective benefits as well as the limitations of those principles. In light of this nexus, it was apparent that I needed further education to explore all its potential advantages.

Another hurdle I had to overcome in a predominantly patriarchal society like XYZ was to hold my own and work on an equal footing with various people, from clients to retailers; colleagues to contractors. This aspect of my character can be attributed to my mother, who raised my brother and me while working full-time as a real estate agent. She taught me to be independent and not to treat my gender as a disability. I have taken her wisdom to heart and have dared to dream of rising to the zenith in my field.

I realize that many architectural designs in XYZ fail to communicate with their environmental and social context, thus creating more hindrances for its inhabitants rather than presenting solutions. My experience in architecture has made me realize the necessity of greater responsibility and sensibility in building structures in XYZ. I greatly believe in XYZ potential and aim for this country to be a forefront practitioner of sustainable architecture.

I aim to practice sustainable architectural design in its true essence and promote green practices that can help build communities, hopefully sharing many more cups of tea in the process.

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Architecture personal statements

On this page you'll find a collection of real personal statements written by students applying to study architecture and related courses at university.

These personal statements are written by real students - don't expect them all to be perfect! But by reading through a few of these samples, you'll be able to get some ideas and inspiration for your own personal statement. 

Architecture personal statement examples

More help with your personal statement.

You can find personal statement examples for other courses by using this subject list, or by returning to our personal statements by subject page.

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10 Tips on Personal Statements (for Architect Students)

1. give yourself enough time, 2. understand what the statement is asking for, 3. introduce yourself, 4. craft skills you learned, 5. a memorable vacation, 6. any work experience you’ve got under your belt, 7. talk about the future, 8. don’t sound too academic, 9. check for grammatical errors, 10. be yourself.

Top Tips for a Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Table of Contents

Introduction: Dos and Don’ts

Cambridge Personal Statements for Architecture is a crucial component of your university application as it presents a unique opportunity for you to differentiate yourself from other applicants. You would be able to articulate your story and explain your interests beyond that of numbers on an admissions test. Furthermore, it gives the interviewer a chance to understand who you are, providing a platform to bounce off questions during your interview. 

They can tailor questions to your personality, interests, and commitment to who you are as a person and your amalgamation of experiences before you. To guide you through the arduous university application process, our Oxbridge application experts have compiled a list of top 10 Architecture Personal Statement Cambridge tips– do’s and don’ts– for your Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement for the 2024/25 application cycle.

General Advice for Architecture Personal Statement

Architecture at Cambridge not only teaches you about the construction and design of structures and buildings but it is also balanced with teachings in the philosophy as well as the history of architecture. You can also expect to be exposed to more modern topics such as urbanism and contemporary culture, being enriched in knowledge in both design and theory. 

As such, your Cambridge personal statement should illustrate how you demonstrate certain key qualities, such as that curiosity, creativity, and intellectual grounding. Moreover, when planning out your Architecture personal statement, make sure you research Cambridge’s achievements in architecture and include it in your writing to illustrate your interest in architecture. 

Furthermore, when you are completing your university applications, you would likely also be applying to four other universities or courses. Hence, it is understandable if your Architecture personal statement is vague and non-specific to Cambridge. The University of Cambridge understands this and will allow you to fill out an ‘Online Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ)’ shortly after submitting the UCAS application. As such, make sure you’ve created another condensed version of your Cambridge Architecture personal statement that can be directly submitted to Cambridge.

Top 5 Tips for Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Display interest in both design and theory.

Some students might have the misconception that architecture is a pure art or design-based course, and others might think that they would be only learning about architecture theory. However, the architecture degree offered at Cambridge encompasses both. Hence, it is important to highlight to Cambridge tutors that you understand and are excited about this. You can display this understanding by highlighting that you are excited about both aspects of the course. You can also further elaborate on this by stating similar relevant experiences that you have undertaken because of this interest. For example, this could include architecture competitions or workshops.

Illustrate in your Cambridge personal statement that you are widely read

Oxbridge tutors love when you show that you are deeply versed in reading. This is because it is a simple, realistic, and straightforward way of showing them that you are genuinely interested in the course you want to pursue. Think of it this way– if you are a fan of a certain pop star or celebrity, you would want to find out more about them. Similarly, if you have a genuine interest in architecture, you would have taken the initiative to learn more about it and read ahead. Rest assured, reading is not only restricted to books. It could also include short articles, magazines, or even podcasts, documentaries, or Youtube videos. For example, Architectural digest is a fun way to be introduced to certain architectural concepts. You can also incorporate the consumption of these media in your daily life by tuning in to a podcast instead of your usual playlist on your ride home from school.

Read around the subject you’re applying for

When writing your Cambridge personal statement, architecture should show as your passion. First of all, reading around the subject doesn’t necessarily mean reading books. Podcasts, magazine articles, documentaries or Research Papers relating to the field of Architecture are all great ways to engage with new content. Popping your headphones in on the way to school and listening to a discussion on thought-provoking areas of your subject is far less daunting than being faced with a huge book. Furthermore, you are going to university to study – you haven’t started yet! – and so the person reading your Cambridge personal statement doesn’t expect you to be an expert, just to have an interest! Exploring a topic that you find fascinating and can form opinions about is far more impressive and important than trying to find the most academic text out there.

Reflect on any experience mentioned and link it to architecture

The main flaw that applicants have when writing their Cambridge personal statements for architecture is assuming that Cambridge tutors want the most decorated applicant. This is actually not the case, as what they are really looking out for is the student who most matches the course they apply for. Hence, do not simply state an experience just because you think it is impressive– reflect on how it has shaped you, and extract a quality that you were equipped with. Lastly, link this quality to how it is relevant to architecture, and how it makes you the perfect architecture student.

Leave yourself enough time when writing your Cambridge Architecture personal statement

Although it is easy to leave the writing of your Cambridge personal statement to the last minute, especially whilst you are busy with your studies or other extracurriculars, always buffer enough time to write your Architecture personal statement. This includes factoring in enough time for the completion of multiple drafts. This is because your first draft would never be your best one, and you would want to continuously refine it based on received feedback. Leaving sufficient time for yourself would also ensure you would not miss out on any information you might have forgotten. If you are staring at a blank document and finding it difficult to start, you can try listing out all your experiences and achievements in the past 5 years. Next, list out all the desirable qualities specific to an architectural student, as well as what the architectural course would entail. You can then match your personal traits to the course, and start fleshing out your paragraphs from there. You can also use prompts to inspire your writing, such as: What about architecture excites me? Why do I want to study architecture? What do I know about architecture at Cambridge and its modules?

Top 5 things to AVOID for your Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Be misinformed about architecture and what to expect.

Always be sure to research the course thoroughly before applying. You can also speak to current or post-graduate students about how they find the course. Most students’ perceptions of the course that they are applying to are shaped by that of the media, or their limited high school experiences. Hence, this can lead to a one-dimensional, and not a necessarily accurate view of architecture. Having an accurate and realistic understanding of Cambridge’s architecture programme would not only give you an edge if this understanding is displayed in your Architecture personal statement, but it also ensures that you are able to identify if you are a good match for it.

Associate too many qualities with a singular experience

Although it is recommended to always reflect on an experience and explain how it has equipped you with certain qualities, do not go overboard with the number of things you have learnt from a singular experience. For example, it is not realistic to learn time management, leadership skills, compassion, and perseverance all from a two-day camp. Choose one specific quality that you would like to highlight when enumerating your experiences. There is more value in explaining, rather than listing.

Make sweeping statements without showing how it is related to architecture

With all that you have done in high school and more, you might feel pressed to fit everything into the word count. Hence, it is important to pick and choose the points that you would really like to elaborate on and highlight, instead of mentioning everything with a simple one-liner. Avoid general statements that don’t add value to your Cambridge Architecture personal statement, and make sure that you are always linking your points back to how you are well matched for architecture. For example, you can avoid talking about experiences that are completely irrelevant to architecture. If you feel that a certain experience is crucial to you and your journey, try and extract relevant qualities from it. For example, your part-time work taught you to be resourceful or creative in finding unconventional solutions to common everyday problems.

Writing an essay on your favourite theory or architecture

Although mentioning certain books, ideas, or theories is a good way to show that you are well-read or passionate about architecture, do not turn your Cambridge Architecture personal statement into an argumentative essay or informational sheet about a certain theory. Do remember that what Cambridge tutors are interested in when reading your Cambridge Architecture personal statement is you. These tutors are people who are already experts in their field, and would likely know any theory that you are writing on. When reading your Cambridge Architecture personal statement, they want to learn about you and if you are a good match for architecture, not a theory that they can learn from any textbook.

Being cliché and unprofessional

Keeping in mind that Cambridge tutors are reading your Architecture personal statement to determine if you are a good fit for the course, it could come off as unauthentic if you talk about a cliché or movie-like moment being your only motivation to study architecture. It is alright if your reasons for studying architecture are due to amalgamations of small, seemingly insignificant reasons– as long as you show valid and reasonable reasons for wanting to study architecture. Be authentic!

If you’re unsure about what you’ve included in your architecture personal statement Cambridge draft, why not book a FREE consultation with our specialists and book a personal statement check .

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Architecture Personal Statement Guide

Your application to university is one of the most important you’ll make; it’s not an easy process as it requires a lot from you. The personal statement is one step in that process, but it’s also one of the more challenging ones because of what it demands.

A good personal statement will be introspective and analytical in the right places, but also informative and hopefully enjoyable to read. Its purpose is simple: to tell someone who doesn't know you why you’d be a good fit for a degree course in a subject you’re passionate about.

That said, writing a personal statement is far from simple. Not only are you constrained by space limitations, so will have to exclude much of what you’d like to say, but you also have to satisfy several criteria in very few words to make it an effective testimonial to you and your skills .

Don’t worry, though, everyone’s in the same boat and this guide is here to help you face the writing of it step-by-step, including:

• Why are Personal Statements Important?
• What Should I Include in an Architecture Personal Statement?  
• What Should I Avoid in an Architecture   Personal Statement ?  
• Advice on How to Start an Architecture Personal Statement
• Advice on How to Finish an Architecture Personal Statement

What Should I Avoid in an Architecture Personal Statement ?  

While it’s important to show a knowledge of architecture and an active engagement with it, it’s not beneficial simply to list your favourite architects, buildings, or places you’ve visited on holiday without further analysis , as admissions tutors simply won’t be interested.

Instead, you should discuss particular architects or buildings as part of a broader point you’re making, or to demonstrate a particular interest or inspiration in your architecture journey so far. This goes for all resources, including books, films, podcasts, exhibitions, artists; you should never name-drop something or someone in isolation, but rather discuss it analytically.

You should avoid familiar and informal language , but also avoid pretentious and affected turns of phrase and expressions . Equally, don’t include lots of quotations or rely on clichéd lines about ‘always appreciating architraves for as long as I can remember’ as no one will believe you. Any extra-curricular activities or interests should be related back to your proposal to study architecture , so mentioning your Grade 8 flute award is unlikely to add any value.

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Advice on How to Start an Architecture Personal Statement  

Beginning any piece of writing can be a struggle, and personal statements are no exception. There are lots of ways to open your personal statement, so here are a few options that students have gone with in the past.

You could open the personal statement by reflecting on the beginning of your interest in architecture , i.e. where did it all start? Remembering to avoid clichéd openings, grab the reader’s attention by letting them know what first grabbed your attention. Was it a church? Your school? The Pantheon? Whatever it was, communicate how your personal relationship with architecture began and how it burgeoned into a passion.

Alternatively, you could begin by jumping straight into an academic discussion around a particular architect, building, or exhibition that has inspired you. You don't need to have personal connections to the work other than your academic interest, but make sure that you have researched the work or architect in question and have something analytical or interesting to say about it (rather than just stating facts about it). This could be a useful jumping off point for the rest of your personal statement.

However you open your statement, be direct and use uncomplicated language whilst making it as memorable and enticing as possible. The first impression is all important, and you want to encourage the reader to continue further into the statement.

Advice on How to Finish an Architecture Personal Statement  

As with an essay, the end of your statement should draw together what you’ve discussed up until that point . In statement terms, this should cover your suitability to undertake a degree in architecture and how enthused by the prospect of this you are. You’ve also hopefully relied on substantial examples to demonstrate your passion, so writing the statement’s conclusion shouldn’t be too difficult.

Remember not to repeat yourself ; the idea is to emphasise what you’ve said already, rather than to say it again verbatim. These will be your departing words to the reader so, as with the introduction, you want to be remembered and leave a positive impression that leads to the next stage, be that an interview or an offer.

• What are some Tips for Writing a Strong Architecture Personal Statement?
• How Long Should my Architecture Personal Statement Be?
• What Kind of Extracurricular Activities Should I Include in my Architecture Personal Statement?
• How Can I Tailor my Architecture Personal Statement to the Oxford/Cambridge Course?

Architecture degrees are a blend of theory and practice, so it’s advisable that you express an interest in both aspects of the discipline. As with all else you mention, it’s important to use examples from your research to support your points, so don’t just assert your interest – prove it! You should also look at modules that are common to all the universities you’re applying to; this way you can narrow down what appeals to you and show that you’ve looked into the degrees themselves.

Think hard about why you’re interested in architecture as a subject in general and in studying it at university in particular. This isn’t easy, as likes and dislikes are always difficult to scrutinise. That said, admissions tutors will want to see a good level of consideration from you as they won’t want to admit anyone who has applied on a whim or because they couldn’t think of anything else to do.

The length of your architecture personal statement, like all personal statements, is limited by UCAS. They’ve set a restriction of 4000 characters (including spaces), or alternatively 47 lines of the UCAS form; the relevant limit is the one you reach first. For this reason, it’s imperative you plan the statement’s structure and content as you don’t want to waste valuable words.

You’re lucky in that architecture is a subject that we’re all involved with to some extent. Buildings and structures are part of our everyday lives, and we can’t escape them. When it comes to extra-curricular activities, you can draw on anything you deem to be a worthwhile engagement with the built environment, or aesthetic history, or material culture; this includes reading around the subject, of course. As long as you can relate the activity to your interest in architecture, and talk about the benefit derived from it, then it will be relevant.

While you shouldn’t tailor your personal statement to any one university if you’re applying to more than one, it is possible to gauge the specialisms of certain universities and to emphasise your attraction to those, provided this doesn’t by definition rule out any other university in your application. Oxford and Cambridge value academic independence and freedom of thought, so try to be original in your views and be able to support them with evidence from your wider reading and research.

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Architecture Masters Personal Statement Example: Effective Guide

Table of Contents

So you want to pursue a master’s degree in architecture? Congratulations! A career in architecture can be rewarding, both creatively and financially. To begin, you need to write your master’s application. This article provides architecture masters personal statement example to guide you.

Like all personal statements, an architecture master’s personal statement should give the admissions committee a snapshot of who you are as an individual. It should highlight your strengths and interests and explain why pursuing a masters in architecture is your next logical step.

But writing about yourself can be challenging – especially concerning something as subjective as art or design. So how do you craft a strong statement that will stand out from the rest? Read on for our top tips!

What Is An Architecture Masters Personal Statement?

Consider it the opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions’ committee. It is your chance to discuss your interest in studying architecture and the factors that led to your decision. 

A personal statement typically showcases your motivation and academic and professional achievements . It lets you demonstrate how you hope to use an architectural degree once you graduate. 

The admissions’ committee will look for signs of how you will add value to the program and their community. So put your best foot forward and show them your skills! 

Why Do You Need A Personal Statement?

Having an impressive personal statement is essential when pursuing a masters in architecture. It’s your opportunity to showcase your skills and experiences while highlighting why you’re the perfect candidate for the program. If you’re looking to pursue a master’s degree in architecture, be sure to create a statement that stands out.

An Architecture Master’s personal statement helps admission committees know more about who you are as an individual. They’ll want to know what makes you unique and why studying architecture is essential to you.

Your statement should be well-written and concise, providing enough information without going into too much detail. In addition, make sure that your grammar and spelling are impeccable!

Your Architecture Masters personal statement can help set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of acceptance.

The Structure of Your Architecture Masters Personal Statement

• Introduce yourself and your interest in architecture.
• Outline your academic and professional achievements.
• Highlight your unique abilities and experiences.
• Showcase your creative and design abilities.
• Explain your motivation for pursuing a master’s in architecture.
• State why you want to study at this particular school.
• Write a captivating closing remark.

Tips for Writing Your Architecture Masters Personal Statement

The architecture masters personal statement can be challenging to write. However, with some practice, you will get the hang of it. Below are general things to always remember when writing your architecture masters personal statement.

• Proofread your statement carefully.
• Use strong and descriptive language
• Be concise and stay on topic
• Avoid clichés and general statements
• Use concrete examples from inside and outside the classroom whenever possible.
• Make sure your statement is unique to you
• Get feedback from others.

Architecture Masters Personal Statement Example

Architecture is my passion. I aspire to be an architect who employs unproven techniques in the field of architecture. For a town planning project during my childhood, our local government requested children to create dream homes. As I threw myself into accomplishing the assignment, the challenge captivated me. This incident is one of the countless incidents demonstrating that my passion is inborn and natural rather than the result of some external influence.

I’ve taken various measures to improve my construction and design skills since discovering them. I began my education at the King sway School of Construction Design for Kids, where I gained an early understanding of architectural applications. This experience broadened my knowledge of and interest in architecture. At this point, I chose to pursue a career as an architect. After deciding on a profession, I felt determined to pursue the career opportunities that architecture provided. My life had now become architecture.

After graduating from high school, I enrolled in Emerson Architecture College to improve my architectural talents on a more professional level. The training there expanded my creative horizons. And I started identifying architectural problems and their remedies wherever I went. Environmental architecture and craftsmanship classes allowed me to combine various existent ideas into new or distinctive outputs.

My level of creativity surpassed my expectations. I also learned digital architecture, three-dimensional modeling, and how to use various architectural programs and technology. I am not nearly as talented as I would like to be as an architect; I have an insatiable thirst for architectural knowledge. My innovativeness and ingenuity are fed by my appetite. This understanding is what allows me to design architectural solutions to the challenges I see around me.

I want to be a restoration architect. This passion began following a vacation trip to Paris. As I explored architecture, I realized it portrays our societies’ heritage and history in a way that helps us think critically about our past.

Observing the works of architectural greats has also encouraged me to seek excellence in my career in architecture. In light of this, I have decided to pursue my master’s degree at a school known for producing excellent architects.

To achieve this level of quality, I would like to apply for admission as a master’s student at your institution. This will greatly help me to broaden my understanding of different unfinished architectural difficulties. My goal is to gain information and put it to good use for the benefit of humanity. This will finally bring my dream of being a sophisticated urban planner to fruition .

There are several key takeaways from this exceptional guide on architecture masters personal statement example . When writing a personal statement, highlight your skills and experiences. You should also explain why you want to pursue a master’s degree in architecture. Lastly, be sure to express your passion for Architecture!

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Tips and Advice for a Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Architecture Personal Statement

Last updated: 9 May 2024

A personal statement is a pivotal element in the application process for international students seeking admission to a UK university. Its significance is magnified when applying for an architecture degree at the University of Cambridge , one of the world's most famous universities.

In this article, we'll guide you on how to write a strong Cambridge Architecture personal statement to support your candidature. Learn more below, and if you have any questions ahead of the next intake period or want to begin your Oxbridge application, arrange a free consultation today.

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Top 5 Tips for Your Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

When you write your personal statement for Cambridge, show that you love architecture and have skills that match. Don't just say you're interested; give examples to prove it. Research what Cambridge has achieved in architecture to show you're truly interested.

Also, remember that you might apply to other universities, so don't make your statement all about Cambridge. They'll ask for more details later, so create a shorter version. Your Cambridge Architecture personal statement is your chance to express your love for architecture and why you're a great fit for this special programme. It's not just a piece of paper; it's your moment to shine.

1. Talk About Your Experiences

Just listing your experiences is not enough. You need to explain how these experiences made you interested in architecture or gave you important skills. For example, if you've worked on a design project or been part of a group focusing on architecture, don't just say you did it. Explain how these experiences made you love architecture more, the problems you faced, and how you solved them.

2. Show Your Love for Architecture

Your personal statement should demonstrate your passion for architecture, not just mention it. Explain why you like architecture: Do you enjoy creating spaces that fit the environment? Or you may be fascinated by how buildings change societies and cultures. Share stories of your interest in architecture, like visiting famous buildings or participating in design competitions.

3. Highlight Your Skills

Cambridge wants students who are a good match for their architecture programme . You must show you have the qualities and skills they seek to stand out. For example, architecture needs people who can think creatively and solve problems. You can talk about competitions or projects where you used your creative ideas to find new solutions. Share stories of how you used your problem-solving skills to tackle challenges.

Another important skill in architecture is paying attention to small details. Tell stories of how you noticed little things that made a big difference in a project. This shows that you care about the quality of your work.

4. Show You Know About Architecture

You don't have to be an expert, but your personal statement should show that you know something about architecture and are eager to learn more. You can do this by reading Cambridge's books for future architects. These books have much information that can help you understand the subject better. Also, don't just read books. You can learn from magazines, news articles, podcasts, and documentaries about architecture. This shows that you like to learn from many different sources.

5. Start Early and Check Your Work

Don't wait until the last minute to write your personal statement. Start early so you have time to make it better. Ask your teachers, mentors, or friends for help. They can give you good advice and help you make your statement better. But be careful when asking for help. You don't want to copy someone else's work.

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Top 5 Things to Avoid in Your Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

1. make sure it's well-organised.

Your personal statement should have a clear structure. Begin with an introduction that explains why you're passionate about architecture. Follow this with well-organised paragraphs focusing on a different aspect of your interest in architecture or a specific skill. End your statement with a summary of what you want the admissions committee to remember about you.

2. Don't Rely on What You See in Movies or TV

It's not a good idea to think you know about architecture from what you've seen in movies or TV. Do some research into Cambridge's architecture programme. Understand what they teach and what makes them special. Explain why you want to study there.

3. Keep Your Language Simple

Using big, complicated words may make your writing sound fancy, but it can also make it hard to understand. Use simple words to make your ideas clear. Cambridge prefers personal statements written in plain, easy-to-understand English.

4. Don't Make Vague Claims

Saying you're good at something without giving examples doesn't mean much. Instead of making broad claims, share specific stories about when you used your skills. Give real-life examples of projects you've worked on or problems you've solved.

5. Don't Overcomplicate Your Experiences

When you talk about your experiences, keep it simple. Don't try to say too much at once. Focus on one quality or lesson you learned from each experience. This makes your personal statement more effective.

Your Cambridge Architecture Personal Statement

Writing a strong personal statement for Cambridge Architecture is a big task, but it's essential for getting into one of the world's best architecture programmes. If you need assistance, contact SI-UK today.

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Cambridge Architecture FAQ

Can you send the same personal statement to multiple universities.

Using the same personal statement for different universities is usually not a good idea. Each university is looking for different things, so it's better to tailor your statement to match each university's requirements.

What A-level is best for architecture at Cambridge?

Taking A-levels in Art and Design, Physics, or Maths is a good idea for studying Architecture at Cambridge. These subjects can help you prepare for the course.

Why do people want to study at Cambridge?

People want to study at Cambridge University because it's one of the top universities in the UK and the world. It offers high-quality education, experienced professors, and excellent opportunities for research and learning.

Does Cambridge have a good architecture school?

The Department of Architecture at Cambridge is one of the most important architecture schools in the UK, and Cambridge is known for its great architecture programmes.

Last Updated: 9 May 2024

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Architecture – 2013 ( bath, oxford brookes ).

Architecture combines many disciplines, from physics to art, mathematics to history, it relies on the successful integration of a multitude of skills. I’ve enjoyed art since I was a child.

Architecture – 2013 ( Cambridge Interview, UCL, Bath, Edinburgh, Westminster )

As part of a two week work experience at a London based architectural firm, I was around for the design phase of one of their French projects. The practice ...

Please note UCAS will detect any form of plagiarism. PSE and its contributors do not take any responsibility for the way in which personal statements are used.

MS in Architecture and Urban Design (MSAUD)

The msaud is a one-year, post-professional degree program that leads to a master of science in architecture and urban design degree..

This elastic, genre-defiant program offers students with a professional degree in architecture the opportunity to specialize their skills, and to apply architectural and design thinking to today’s and tomorrow’s design provocations and real-world challenges

The MSAUD program is primarily based at Perloff Hall, on UCLA's Main Campus

See more of Deolekar's project on our Student Work gallery

Led by professors who are experts in their respective fields, MSAUD students join a team of educators and industry partners to question, challenge, and expand the current conventions of architectural practice.

We do this in an immersive, provocative context: a vibrant, expansive research university situated in one of the world’s great cities for design, innovation, and experimentation. Sited in Perloff Hall on UCLA's immersive Main Campus, the MSAUD program benefits from deep engagement with AUD's BA, MArch, MA, and PhD cohorts, as well as colleagues across the UCLA School of the Arts and Architecture and Beyond.

The MSAUD program kicks off each year in early August–just before the rest of UCLA returns for the academic year–with the Summer Studio, a six-week preparatory course that leads into the Fall Quarter; this year's Summer Studio began on Monday, August 5, 2024. See below (Further Reading) for more details, as well as a Typical Study Program, for the MSAUD curriculum.

See below for full details on admissions and applying to the MSAUD program.

Please note: The MSAUD program at UCLA AUD is not NAAB-accredited and may not be accepted as meeting licensure requirements in many U.S. states.

By engaging with experts from various fields, we expand architecture’s field of influence and leverage design to propose alternative, more intelligent futures.

Each year, the MSAUD program offers concurrent studios that explore contemporary topics in architecture and urban design. Recent research has included topics around transit and urban mobility; the relationship between mixed reality and physical environments; urban development in the context of the climate crisis; and future spatial narratives and worldbuilding. Students work on a broad range of mediums to produce models, pop-up installations, short film and animations, video-game design, robotic fabrication, and other media forms applied to architectural questions.

The MSAUD program leverages contemporary technologies to produce architecture and cities at the intersection of the digital and physical worlds, examining life in mixed realities and interactive environments where we challenge traditional spatial experiences, fabrication techniques, and architectural assemblies. Alongside the production of projects, students develop skills in critical thinking and analysis of architecture and the modern city, including history, politics, planning infrastructure, and social issues.

Institutional networking and collaboration are central to the MSAUD program. Past research studios have catalyzed breakthroughs in high-profile projects with Hyperloop, SpaceX, and ARRIVAL; investigated high-performance architecture with Boeing and Cirque du Soleil, and 3D-printing design and technology with Autodesk and Red Bull; and taken on urgent issues of sustainability with UNICEF in Haiti. Most recently, the MSAUD program engaged interactive media with IDEO via the MSAUD/IDEO Studio.

The one-year program.

The program kicks off each year in August–just before the rest of UCLA returns for the academic year–with the Summer Studio, a six-week preparatory course. Through weekly workshops, students are introduced to software, tools, and techniques available to design students. This technical foundation provides a common platform for the remainder of the one-year program and equips students to work collaboratively with faculty to explore research topics, while allowing the MSAUD cohort an opportunity to bond.

In the Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters, students break off into concurrent studios that explore focused but dynamic research areas. The three-quarter studio comprises a first quarter of research, a second quarter of hypothesis definition and development, and a final quarter of design resolution. Alongside their main studio, students also complete Technology Seminars and Critical Studies courses that explore complementary topics and broaden student horizons. Through intensive research and experimentation, students investigate contemporary technological interventions, capture opportunities for interdisciplinary growth, and create new methodologies for architectural design.

*Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a federally regulated program managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is subject to current U.S. federal rules and guidelines. Please visit studyinthestates.dhs.gov/sevis-help-hub/student-records/fm-student-employment/f-1-optional-practical-training-opt for the most up-to-date information regarding this policy.

The MSAUD program is eligible for the STEM OPT Extension for F-1 visa holders. Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a federally regulated program managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is subject to current U.S. federal rules and guidelines. Please visit DHS guidance for the most up-to-date information regarding this policy.

Student Work: MSAUD →

The MSAUD program requires an advanced background in architectural studies and is open to students with a NAAB-accredited five-year Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) degree, a graduate degree in architecture, or the foreign equivalent.

All new students must enter in the summer session. The program is full-time and does not accept part-time students.

New for the Spring 2024 application cycle: The GRE exam is no longer a requirement

Applications for the MSAUD program (Fall 2025 matriculation) are completed via the UCLA Application for Graduate Admission , with deadline to be announced. Candidates will be notified of decisions in March 2025; admitted candidates who wish to accept the offer of matriculation must submit their Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) by April 15, 2025.

Typical Study Program

Courses and schedule are subject to change.

*Students are required to take two of the three Critical Studies Electives offered in the Fall, Winter, and Spring.

How to Apply

Applying to the MSAUD program is an online process via the UCLA Application for Graduate Admission (AGA).

Completing the requirements will take some time, so we strongly recommend logging in to the AGA in advance to familiarize yourself with the site and downloading the documents and forms you will need to complete your application.

You can also download this checklist to make sure you have prepared and submitted all the relevant documents to complete your application.

Your Statement of Purpose is a critical part of your application to the MSAUD program. It is your opportunity to introduce yourself and tell us about your specific academic background, research interests related to specific studio topics, achievements, and goals. Our selection committee use it to evaluate your aptitude for study, as well as consideration for merit-based financial support.

Your statement can be up to 1500 words in length. Below are some questions you might want to consider. You don’t need to answer every question; just focus on the elements that are most relevant to you.

• What is your purpose in applying to the MSAUD. program? Describe your area(s) of interest, including any subfield(s) or interdisciplinary interests*
• What experiences have prepared you for this program? What relevant skills have you gained from these experiences? Have your experiences led to specific or tangible outcomes that would support your potential to contribute to this field (e.g. performances, publications, presentations, awards or recognitions)?
• What other information about your past experience might help the selection committee in evaluating your suitability for this program? E.g. research, employment, teaching, service, artistic or international experiences through which you have developed skills in leadership, communication, project management, teamwork, or other areas.
• Why is UCLA Architecture and Urban Design the best place for you to pursue your academic goals?
• What are your plans for your career after earning this degree?

Your Personal Statement is your opportunity to provide additional information to help the selection committee evaluate your aptitude for study. It will also be used to consider candidates for UCLA Graduate Division fellowships related to diversity. You can read more about the University of California Diversity Statement here .

Your statement can be up to 500 words in length. Below are some questions you might want to consider. You don’t need to answer every question; just focus on the elements that are most relevant to you.

• Are there educational, personal, cultural, economic, or social experiences, not described in your Statement of Purpose, that have shaped your academic journey? If so, how? Have any of these experiences provided unique perspective(s) that you would contribute to your program, field or profession?
• Describe challenge(s) or barriers that you have faced in your pursuit of higher education. What motivated you to persist, and how did you overcome them? What is the evidence of your persistence, progress or success?
• How have your life experiences and educational background informed your understanding of the barriers facing groups that are underrepresented in higher education?
• How have you been actively engaged (e.g., through participation, employment, service, teaching or other activities) in programs or activities focused on increasing participation by groups that have been historically underrepresented in higher education?
• How do you intend to engage in scholarly discourse, research, teaching, creative efforts, and/or community engagement during your graduate program that have the potential to advance diversity and equal opportunity in higher education?
• How do you see yourself contributing to diversity in your profession after you complete your MSAUD at UCLA Architecture and Urban Design?

A Curriculum Vitae (résumé of your academic and professional experience) is recommended but not required.

Applicants must upload a scanned copy of the official transcripts from each college or university you have attended both in the U.S. and abroad. If you are accepted into the program you will be required to submit hard copies. These can either be sent directly from each institution or hand-delivered as long as they remain in the official, signed, sealed envelopes from your college or university. As a general rule, UCLA Graduate Division sets a minimum required overall grade-point average of 3.0 (B), or the foreign equivalent.

As of this Fall 2023 cycle, the GRE is NOT required as part of your application to UCLA AUD. No preference will be given to those who choose to submit GRE scores as part of their application.

However, if you do take the GRE exam and wish to include it as part of your application: More information on this standardized exam can be found at www.ets.org/gre . In addition to uploading your GRE scores, please direct ETS to send us your official score sheets. Our ETS codes for the GRE are below:

UCLA Architecture and Urban Design Institution Code: 4837 Department Code: 4401

We recommend you take the exam at least three weeks before the application deadline as it usually takes 2-3 weeks for ETS to send us the test scores.

If you have received a Bachelor’s degree in a country where the official language of instruction and primary spoken language of daily life is not English, you must submit either a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Exempt countries include Australia, Barbados, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. This is a requirement that is regardless of your visa or citizenship status in the United States.

To be considered for admission to the MSAUD program, international students must score at least 87 on the TOEFL and 7 on the IELTS exam. Because processing, sending, and receiving TOEFL and IELTS scores can take several weeks, international students must schedule their exam no later than October 31 in order to meet UCLA deadlines. TOEFL scores must be sent to us directly and uploaded as part of the online submission. Our ETS codes for the TOEFL are below:

UCLA Architecture and Urban Design Institution Code: 4837 Department Code: 12

If your score is less than 100 on the TOEFL or 7 on the IELTS, you are also required to take the English as a Second Language Placement Examination (ESLPE) on arrival at UCLA. The results of this test will determine any English as a Second Language (ESL) courses you need to take in your first term of residence. These courses cannot be applied towards your minimum course requirements. As such, you should expect to have a higher course load than students not required to take ESL courses.

If you have earned a degree or completed two years of full-time college-level coursework in the following countries, your TOEFL / IELTS and ESLPE requirements will be waived: U.S., U.K., Canada (other than Quebec), Australia, and New Zealand. Please provide official transcripts to demonstrate course completion. Unfortunately, we cannot accept any other documentation to demonstrate language proficiency.

Three (3) letters of recommendation are required. These letters should be from individuals who are familiar with your academic and professional experiences and can evaluate your capacity to successfully undertake graduate studies at UCLA. If you do not have an architecture background please note that we are looking for letters that evaluate your potential as a graduate student, not necessarily your architecture experience.

Letters of recommendation must be sent electronically directly to UCLA by the recommender. When logged in, you can enter the name and email address of each of your recommenders. They will be contacted by email with a request to submit a letter on your behalf. You can track which letters have and have not been received. You can also send reminders to your recommenders to send their letters.

Your digital portfolio of original creative work is a central part of your application. Please upload your portfolio in the “Architecture” section of the online portal.

Your portfolio should be formatted at 8-1/2" x 11", and saved as a single PDF file no greater than 15 MB. We suggest designing your portfolio as single sheets, with your name clearly stated on the cover page. Image sizes should be at least 150 dpi and no more than 300 dpi for print.

Content is not restricted to any particular subject area, the material should form a cohesive presentation and represent your previous experience and creative abilities. It can be used to showcase both academic and professional work* and can include both graphic and written material.

*If you are including professional work please be sure to properly credit others and / or explain your role as part of a team.

Please complete and submit the Department Supplement Form to confirm your intention to apply to the MSAUD program as well as your ranked preference of research topics.

Tuition & Fees

The most up-to-date information on tuition and fees for the MSAUD program can be found on the UCLA Registrar’s Office website .

For information on estimated cost of living and other expenses visit the UCLA Financial Aid Office website .

Financial Aid

As a public university, we strive to make our programs accessible to students from a diverse population. UCLA Architecture and Urban Design offers graduate students a number of financial opportunities in the form of scholarships and employment opportunities.

Recruitment fellowships are offered to the most outstanding students that apply to the MSAUD program each year. All applicants are considered for recruitment fellowships as part of the application review process. No additional applications are necessary to be considered for these awards.

We offer a range of employment opportunities for students to work in the department. These include social media, marketing, photography, videography, front office administration, exhibition management and installation, fabrication shop assistant and assisting with the print lab operations. Students can work up to 20 hours per week, build their skills in these areas and learn about the department in the process. Please enquire in the main administration office to learn more.

These employment opportunities are prioritized for Work-Study eligible students. There are two types of work-study programs: the Federal Work-Study program which awards up to $2,000 per year; and the Graduate Work-Study program which awards between $5,000 and $15,000 per year. Students who are eligible to receive federal loans can apply to be considered for one or the other program. General information on work-study programs can be found on the UCLA Graduate Division website .

The Graduate Work-Study Program is for “need-based eligible” graduate students completing part-time paid internships, community service, research projects, or other endeavors closely related to their academic degree program. Students must submit additional paperwork to be considered for the Graduate Work-Study Program.

U.S. citizens or permanent residents can apply for Federal Stafford Student Loans through the UCLA Financial Aid Office , which are long-term loans through private lending organizations.

A variety of extramural funding opportunities are available to graduate students including academic fellowships, research grants, competition awards, conference support, and exhibition funding. To be considered for extramural funding, students should apply directly to the funding organization. UCLA Graduate Division maintains extensive records extramural fellowship directories . Among these, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and other architecture associations make awards annually.

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Master of Architecture

M.s. advanced architectural design, m.s. computational design practices, m.s. critical, curatorial & conceptual practices.

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Intro Program

M.s. architecture and urban design, m.s. urban planning.

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Application Process & Requirements

The application for 2025 PhD program admissions is now live. The application for 2025 Master’s admissions will be available in mid-September.

Applications for the non-degree programs Intro to Architecture and Shape of Two Cities: New York Paris are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Columbia GSAPP is committed to attracting the best talent from a wide range of geographic, cultural, and economic backgrounds, and employs a holistic application review process that considers multiple factors with the intent of creating a class enhanced by diverse voices. Applicants are considered for their academic merit, potential, and individual experiences, and are selected to shape the best possible educational environment in the School’s studios and classrooms for the student body at large.

Each degree program offered by Columbia GSAPP has unique admissions requirements. Please select your program of interest below, and carefully review the program-specific application deadlines, processes, and requirements, as well as the admissions policies. If you need any additional help, please reference the FAQ page or contact the Admissions office at [email protected] .

Prerequisites

Application Deadline: January 3, 2025

All Master of Architecture students must complete prerequisites before the start of the program. Please review the M.ARCH Prerequisites webpage for full details.

All applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M.ARCH program.

All applicants must have fulfilled a minimum of 45 credit hours of general studies in the arts, humanities and/or science at their undergraduate institution.

History/Theory Course Sequence: All applicants must have completed a 3-point survey course in architectural history at an accredited college or university dealing with any of the following periods: classical to Renaissance, Renaissance to modern, or modern.

Building Technologies Course Sequence: All applicants must have completed a 3-point course in general physics or two 3-point calculus courses at an accredited college or university.

Applicants who have no prior background in architecture must complete a course in architectural graphic presentation (this could be one term of architectural studio or a studio in the visual arts such as drawing, painting, or sculpture) as a prerequisite for the Core Studio Sequence, before registering in the M.ARCH program.

Application Steps

• 1. Online Application
• 2. Letters of Recommendation
• 3. Personal Statement
• 4. Transcripts
• 5. Portfolio
• 6. Resumé/CV
• 8. English Proficiency Requirement
• 9. Dual Degree Option
• 10. Application Status

Online Application

Create and complete an online application.

A fee of $75 (payable by Visa or MasterCard) is due at the time of application submission.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required for all degree program applicants. GSAPP does not have a special form for letters of recommendation. Recommenders may scan and upload recommendation letters to the online application. Letters received directly from applicants will not be accepted.

Letters of recommendation are due by the application deadline.

Personal Statement

Transcripts.

An academic transcript/record from each university attended and credit earned is required for all applicants. All transcripts must be received by the application deadline. Applicants should upload a digital copy or scan of their transcript/s to the online application. We allow digital copies of transcripts for review purposes only.

Please note that the applicant may upload unofficial transcripts at the start of the application process. Once an applicant has been admitted and has indicated acceptance of our offer of admission, certified and secure online official transcripts must be submitted directly to Columbia from the applicant’s prior institution(s)’ Registrar Office. Please note that incoming students for the 2025 year will be contacted with specific instructions on electronic submission from prior institution(s) for receipt of these documents. Only if a prior academic institution is unable to submit certified and secure online official transcripts, an official transcript in a sealed envelope must be sent directly from that institution’s Registrar Office to Columbia. Columbia will use its verification vendor to verify the applicant’s degree and transcript with the prior academic institutions and/or the relevant country’s Ministry of Education. Applicants will be asked to consent to participate in this verification process by submitting an authorization and release form.

GRE test scores are optional for the 2025 Admissions cycle.

MSUP applicants who do not have strong analytical background or professional experience are encouraged to submit GRE results to supplement their application.

Applicants who have prior score results may submit them as part of their application. GRE scores are considered valid for five years after the test date.

Applicants should contact ETS to have official test scores sent to the GSAPP Admissions Office via Institution Code 2164. GRE scores are valid for five years after the test date. At this time there is no minimum required GRE score for admission.

English Proficiency Requirement

All applicants whose primary language is not English must submit English Proficiency Exam scores (with the exception of Introduction to Architecture applicants).

Applicants whose primary language is not English and who have successfully completed two years of study in an English-speaking institution may waive the English Proficiency requirement.

Columbia GSAPP accepts TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo test results. Self-reported scores must be verified by requesting official scores to be sent directly to GSAPP.

TOEFL: Applicants should contact ETS to have official TOEFL test scores sent to the GSAPP Admissions via Institution Code 2164, Dept. Code 12. Scores sent to any other institution code will not be accessible to GSAPP staff. TOEFL scores are valid for two years after the test date.

IELTS and Duolingo: Columbia GSAPP accepts IELTS and Duolingo test results as alternatives to TOEFL scores. Institution school codes are NOT required for IELTS and Duolingo.

Please see the Admissions FAQ page for additional details.

Dual Degree Option

Only one application per admissions period is accepted. Multiple applications to different programs will not be processed unless they are applications to an approved dual degree program.

Please see the Dual Degree webpage for a list of approved dual programs and their suggested course sequences.

Application Status

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review application policies and procedures before submitting an online application. The GSAPP only accepts applications online.

Applicants may check the status of their application after submission by logging into their account with their email address and password and reviewing the status page.

Application Deadline: January 15, 2025

• The M.S.AAD program is a second/post-professional degree in Architecture. All applicants must have a first professional degree, B.Arch, M.Arch, or equivalent degree (5 years, eligible for licensure) by the time they start the M.S. AAD program.
• 7. English Proficiency Requirement
• 8. Application Status
• The M.S. AUD program is open to both pre- and post-professional students, and encourages applications from a range of backgrounds interested in exploring urban design. All applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M.S. AUD program. Please note that the M.S. AUD is not a professional architecture degree and does not in itself qualify for licensure.
• 4. Resumé/CV
• 5. Transcripts
• 6. Portfolio
• The M.S. CDP program is open to both pre- and post-professional students, and encourages applications from a range of backgrounds. All applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M.S. CDP program.
• 5. Portfolio M.S. CDP
• 6. English Proficiency Requirement
• 7. Resumé/CV
• 8. Dual Degree Option
• 9. Application Status

Portfolio M.S. CDP

A digital portfolio is required for admission to the M.S. CDP program. The digital portfolio should be in a single PDF document, 20 PDF pages or less (including the cover pages and table of contents, if applicable), and should not exceed 32 MB. The digital portfolio should be optimized for viewing on a standard size computer screen. Digital portfolios must be uploaded at the time the application is submitted. Portfolios should contain reproductions of original drawings, prints, graphic design, or sculpture.

The M.S. CDP portfolio can be architectural design, computational design or multi-media, and include text.

The M.S. CCCP program applicants must have a minimum of a four-year bachelor degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M.S. CCCP program, including no less than 4 classes in architecture, architectural history, or a related form of aesthetic or cultural practice.

Applicants who do not hold a B.Arch or M.Arch degree or the equivalent should demonstrate a substantive interest in architecture and/or urbanism through providing evidence of work in history, theory, criticism, research, design, editing, events-coordination, visualization, exhibition work, or curatorial practice.

Visual acuity and interest in undertaking independent research and original projects are crucial for all applicants and the submission of a portfolio of writing or visual material is intended to provide the admissions committee with evidence of an applicant’s areas of interest and/or skills as well as preparation in the field he or she intents to pursue. It is not, however, necessary to have extensive experience in order to be admitted, but in the absence of such a background it is very important that the character and strengths of a prospective student’s work and research interests are documented and conveyed.

• 5. Portfolio M.S. CCCP

Portfolio M.S. CCCP

A digital portfolio is required for admission to the M.S. CCCP program. The digital portfolio should be in a single PDF document, 20 PDF pages or less (including the cover pages and table of contents, if applicable), and should not exceed 32 MB. The digital portfolio should be optimized for viewing on a standard size computer screen. Digital portfolios must be uploaded at the time the application is submitted. Portfolios should contain reproductions of original drawings, prints, graphic design, or sculpture.

M.S. CCCP applicants have the option of submitting writing and/or visual material to fulfill the portfolio requirement.

The M.S. HP program is multidisciplinary in nature and expects all students to engage in preservation in depth from many perspectives. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to historic preservation as a profession and students should have a basic knowledge of the history of architecture.

All applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M.S. HP program.

Part-time Option Columbia GSAPP now offers a part-time option for the MS in Historic Preservation degree . Specifically designed for active practitioners in the field who wish to maintain professional positions while studying, this option is based on the same academic requirements and allow students to complete a MSHP degree over the course of four years (eight semesters) instead of two years (four semesters) of full-time study. Please see the application requirements below, and select the part-time option within the online application form.

• 5. Resumé/CV

All applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M.S. RED program.

M.S. RED applicants may hold undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of fields. While graduate and professional academic preparation in development-related disciplines, such as architecture, finance, law, urban design, historic preservation, civil engineering, or urban planning is highly desirable, it is not essential for admission to the program.

• 6. GRE/GMAT

MSRED applicants who do not have a strong background in finance, statistics, or analytics, and who do not have at least two years of relevant professional experience, are encouraged to submit GRE test scores to supplement their application.

GRE Applicants who chose to include optional test scores should contact ETS to have official test scores sent to the Admissions Office via Institution Code 2164. Scores sent to any other institution code will not be accessible to GSAPP staff. GRE scores are valid for five years after the test date.

GMAT Applicants who chose to submit optional test scores may submit GMAT scores in lieu of GRE scores. Applicants should contact GMAC to have official test scores sent to the GSAPP Admissions Office via Institution Code: QF8-73-53. Scores sent to any other institution code will not be accessible to GSAPP staff. GMAT scores are valid for five years after the test date.

*Applicants who wish to report an unofficial score are required to request an official transcript for verification in order to complete the application. Official scores sent directly from a testing agency are considered official. Scores uploaded by applicants are considered unofficial and will not fulfill application requirements.

The M.S. UP program prepares students from diverse academic backgrounds for careers as professional planners. Applicants typically, but not exclusively, have majored in architecture, engineering, sociology, political science, geography, economics, or urban studies; many also come from backgrounds in the humanities and pure sciences. The admissions committee reviews all applicants comprehensively, considering their undergraduate academic achievements, personal statement, and related experiences.

All applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university by the time they start the M.S. UP program. Once a member of the GSAPP Admissions Office completes a preliminary review, the M.S. in Urban Planning program office assigns each application to three reviewers including a minimum of two full-time Urban Planning faculty members. The program seeks applicants with strong critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills. The application deadline is January 15, 2023 for entry in the Fall 2023 semester, and the GSAPP Admissions Office notifies applicants with decisions in March 2023.

Please note that deadlines for dual degree programs outside of GSAPP are set by their respective schools. Separate applications need to be submitted to each program and applicants need to be admitted by both schools to pursue a dual-degree program. Please consult each respective school’s website for details. Part-time Option Columbia GSAPP now offers a part-time option for the MS in Urban Planning degree . Specifically designed for active practitioners in the field who wish to maintain professional positions while studying, this option is based on the same academic requirements and allow students to complete a MSUP degree over the course of four years (eight semesters) instead of two years (four semesters) of full-time study. Please see the application requirements below, and select the part-time option within the online application form.

• 3. Personal Statement MSUP

Personal Statement MSUP

Ph.d. in architecture.

Application Deadline: JANUARY 4, 2025

The Architecture Ph.D. Program is administered by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS). All application instructions, deadlines and procedures are available on the GSAS website .

Eligibility for admission to the program is generally limited to students holding a Master of Architecture degree or a five-year Bachelor of Architecture degree plus a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in the field of architectural history and theory. Students who hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in another field are considered for admission if they can demonstrate a strong background in architectural history or related disciplines of the built environment.

All prospective students must apply using the online application. Printed applications are not available.

A complete application includes:

• Transcripts of all previous post-secondary education
• A statement of academic purpose
• A curriculum vitae or résumé
• Three letters of recommendation from academic sources
• For international students: Examination scores to fulfill the English Proficiency Requirement
• A sample of scholarly writing, 30 pages
• Payment of the application fee

Please contact the GSAS with all admissions questions.

For program questions, applicants may reach out to PhD committee faculty regarding particular research interests.

Ph.D. in Historic Preservation

The Historic Preservation Ph.D. Program is administered by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS). All application instructions, deadlines and procedures are available on the GSAS page .

Eligibility for admission to the program is generally limited to students holding a Master of Historic Preservation degree. Under certain circumstances, students who hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in another field are considered for admission.

• GRE scores are waived for 2022 admissions

Optional Portfolio: Applicants are encouraged to submit an optional portfolio if it speaks to their research interest in experimental preservation approaches that explore material intersections of the PAAST (Preservation Art Architecture Science and Technology) with urgent contemporary environmental and social issues. For more information on the Optional Portfolio, please review the FAQ .

Ph.D. in Urban Planning

Application Deadline: DECEMBER 14, 2024

The Urban Planning Ph.D. Program is administered by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS). All application instructions, deadlines and procedures are available on the GSAS page .

The applicant must hold a master’s degree in urban planning or in a related discipline and have excellent academic credentials (a grade average of B+ or better). In addition, the applicant is required to have completed at least 90 points of undergraduate liberal arts courses in the social sciences, humanities or natural sciences, and the equivalent of the core courses provided in the master’s-level curriculum in the Division of Urban Planning, Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation.

Fellowships are awarded in recognition of academic achievement and in expectation of scholarly success. Graduate fellowships include teaching and research assistantships.

• GRE scores are optional for 2024 admissions
• A sample of scholarly writing, 8-10 pages

For program questions, applicants should reach out to the Chair of the PhD sub-committee.

New York / Paris

Application Deadline: Rolling Admission (January–July)

The New York/Paris program is designed for students who have completed their sophomore year at an accredited college or university, or students who have received a bachelor’s degree. Previous study in architecture, planning, or preservation is not required. Undergraduate students must have the written support of their home institution.

• 2. Personal Statement
• 3. Letter of Recommendation
• 5. English Proficiency Requirement
• 6. Application Status

Letter of Recommendation

One letter of recommendation is required for New York/Paris program applicants and Visiting Scholars. GSAPP does not have a special form for letters of recommendation. Recommenders may scan and upload recommendation letters to the online application. Letters received directly from applicants will not be accepted.

Application Deadline: Rolling Admission (January–June)

The Intro Program (Intro to Architecture, Intro to Historic Preservation, Intro to Real Estate, and Intro to Urban Planning) is a 5-week, 3-point intensive course (non-degree, not for credit towards a degree, and not eligible for full-time student status).

• Participants have the option of choosing a focus on Architecture, Historic Preservation, Real Estate, or Urban Planning, which may be selected in the application form.
• Into to Architecture will be held both online and in-person, allowing students to choose their preferred mode of study; Intro to Urban Planning and Historic Preservation will be held in-person; Intro to Real Estate will be held online.
• Admitted students are invited to apply to the Hilyard Robinson Scholars Program . Recipients receive full tuition scholarships for GSAPP’s Intro to Architecture summer program.
• Applicants should have completed an undergraduate degree or currently be enrolled at an undergraduate institution.
• 2. Transcripts
• 3. Optional Recommendation
• 4. Application Status

Optional Recommendation

Non-degree program applicants to Introduction to Architecture and Special Students have the option to include letters of recommendation, but they are not required.

GSAPP does not have a special form for letters of recommendation. Recommenders may scan and upload recommendation letters to the online application. Letters received directly from applicants will not be accepted.

Visiting Scholar

Application Deadline: Rolling Admission

Persons who wish to use the facilities of the University to pursue their own research may be named visiting scholars.

In order to be eligible for visiting scholar status, applicants must be currently affiliated with an accredited academic institution.

“Visiting scholar” is a courtesy title and does not signify a formal association with the University. Individuals named to these titles may not claim a University affiliation for the purpose of applying for grants and contracts and should not represent themselves in their publication and correspondence as having a University affiliation.

Visiting Scholars are not eligible to take courses at GSAPP for credit.

We only accept a limited number of Visiting Scholars and are unable to provide an invitation letter until an applicant has submitted an online application and has been approved by the Provost’s office.

• 2. Personal Statement Visiting Scholar
• 7. Application Status

Personal Statement Visiting Scholar

A personal statement is required for admission to each program (with the exception of Introduction to Architecture). In approximately 500 words, describe your background, your past work in your intended field of study, and your plans for study and a professional career.

The statement must include the applicant’s affiliation with an accredited academic institution. Applicants must demonstrate a solid academic reason as to why they must be in person at Columbia to conduct their research. They must also specify which on-campus resources and archives will be accessed as part of their research.

Special Student

Application Deadline: August 15 or December 1 of each year

Individuals may be eligible to take courses in the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation. These students must be admitted by the Office of the Associate Dean of Admissions as Special Students (non-degree candidates).

Studios and visual studies courses are not open to Special Students. Courses in the Real Estate Development program are also not open to Special Students. Lecture classes are open to Special Students with the permission of the Associate Dean of Admissions and the faculty teaching the course.

Special Students receive library and computer access for the semester(s) in which they are enrolled. They receive a transcript from Columbia University with the course name and grade(s). Special Students pay the current per-point rate for degree programs for the course.

If a Special Student wishes to apply for matriculation in any of the graduate degree programs at a later date, the student must submit an application for that program by the deadline. The Admissions Committee does not treat the applicant preferentially. In some cases, students who take courses as Special Students and are admitted to a degree program may be awarded advanced standing. Those who wish to apply for degree candidacy are therefore urged to do so at the earlier possible time.

• 3. Transcripts
• 4. English Proficiency Requirement
• 5. Optional Recommendation

Prospective students must submit an application online to be considered for admission. Only one application per admissions period is accepted. Multiple applications to different programs will not be processed unless they are applications to an approved dual degree program.

Applicants are expected to use their full legal name when completing the online application.

All candidates have the opportunity to complete a GSAPP scholarship application included with the application for admission. GSAPP scholarships are based on a combination of merit and financial need. This form must be submitted through the online application. Candidates will not have access to the scholarship application once their program application has been submitted.

GSAPP does not grant deferrals, nor does it conduct spring term admissions. Candidates will only be considered for the semester listed on their application.

Files or materials sent during previous application periods are not saved for future applications. Those wishing to re-apply must re-submit all of the required application materials for their new application to be considered complete.

Note that the applicant must submit all materials directly, not through an agent or third-party vendor, with the sole exception of submissions by the U.S. Department of State’s Fulbright Program and its three partner agencies IIE, LASPAU and AMIDEAST, and by the Danish-American Fulbright Commission (DAF), Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD), and Vietnam Education Fund (VEF). In addition, the applicant will be required to attest to the accuracy and authenticity of all information and documents submitted to Columbia. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact the admissions office at GSAPP.

Failure to submit complete, accurate, and authentic application documents consistent with these instructions may result in denial or revocation of admission, cancellation of academic credit, suspension, expulsion, or eventual revocation of degree. Applicants may be required to assist admissions staff and faculty involved in admission reviews in the verification of all documents and statements made in documents submitted by students as part of the application review process. 

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Architecture personal statement example 16.

I vividly remember the moment when I knew I wanted to be an architect. I had been taken to Barcelona to see ‘the wavy buildings’, at the time I didn’t know anything about Gaudí or his work so I was relatively unenthusiastic. However, when I turned the corner onto the plaza where the Sagrada Familia is situated, I was instantly emerged in its grandeur. From then on I was hooked, I never knew such awe inspiring structures existed; the shape and colour of the stone looked like it had been dredged up from the earth, as if it had always been there. I knew then, I wanted to be a part of it.

I feel my choice of A-levels have geared me towards architecture. Although I chose predominantly sciences and mathematics, I knew I needed a balance so I chose English, partly because I enjoy it but moreover I knew it would help me broaden my communication skills. A fundamental part of architecture is communicating with engineers, technicians and of course colleagues; I also thought that it could help me articulate my annotations and concepts more effectively. However, at the end of Year 12, it came to my attention that despite my AS in English, I did not have a true art related subject behind me. I did not take art at GCSE and felt out of practice, so to remedy this I decided to take an AS in art in my spare time; not only to gain another qualification, but to nurture my creative side and develop my portfolio.

Living in Newcastle has given me a diverse architectural upbringing. I have tried to explore as much architecture as my means allow, even if it’s just following a cobbled street I have not yet been down or catching the train to a local cathedral city; such as Durham. Newcastle itself is brimming with a myriad of different architectural styles and eras; from the classically inspired nineteenth century riverfront area, to modular, brutalist scars on the city’s skyline. Traveling is a great interest of mine, visiting places which are considered ‘boring’ by some such as Prague, have been enthralling for me.

During the summer, I was privileged enough to go to Peru on a charity related expedition. It was a lot of hard work to raise the thirty-thousand pounds to go; but it was certainly worth it. Fundraising was often challenging; but one event stands out in my mind in particular. Within our school, myself and the others in my team organised a mass charity bicycle ride in which all pupils would take turns on a series of static bikes to try to pedal the distance to Peru. Calculating the distance the wheels moved was difficult, but I fashioned a device out of flexible card which would attach to the wheel. Knowing the card’s width, it would pass though a light gate which would measure its velocity. This paired with the circumference of the wheel and some technical know-how provided the distance. This may not relate directly to architecture; but I feel it shows my ability to use my knowledge and adapt it to quite an abstract situation. To put it in an architectural context, it shows I can think laterally and match a solution to a difficult scenario. However, There is an obvious mathematical element to architecture and I believe this demonstrates my aptitude in that area.

Our mission whist in Peru was to renovate a school building in a small mountain village. I saw how the building was being put together and was astounded at how simple the methods of construction were. Bottles filled with sticks and plastic bags helped make the foundations, but it was the resourcefulness of the exterior which was the most impressive. For bricks they would simply pack mud into wooden moulds and leave to dry in the sun, they called them ‘adobes’.

Architecture is as much an art form as it is a science and I believe I have the right mental balance of logic and a creative flare for design to be a successful architect. I want to recreate the feeling that was born inside of me when I first gazed up that day, in every design I produce.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by nanofarad for application in 2011.

nanofarad's university choices University of Bath Cambridge University The University of Manchester The University of Edinburgh De Montfort University

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

Degree Architecture at The University of Edinburgh

nanofarad's Comments

I vowed I would never read this again after I sent it off (I still haven't), as I was concerned I would find a mistake or a syntactical error that I wouldn't be able to do anything about. I think this personal statement served me well. I feel it's a bit cliche in places, and if I had put more time into it I may have improved slightly - but the bottom line is it got me to the university I wanted to go to; and that's all that matters.

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

This personal statement is.

Thu, 05/07/2012 - 17:01

This personal statement is impressive, im currently writing my own and have read so so many, yet, this one has really stood out for me. Could i ask what grades you recieved at A level? I read over your university options and noticed they were all high ranking and similar to my own choices. I too want to study Architecture but I know I'd feel more comfortable if i had some idea of what chance i stand being able to compare my predicted grades to a student whos been accepted. Many thanks, Molly

Mon, 10/09/2012 - 23:57

I'm so pleased you liked it! You're too kind :) I got A*A*A in Physics, Maths and English Language respectively, in addition to AS-Levels ABBBB in Philosophy, Fine Art, General Studies, Further Maths and Chemistry respectively. Don't get too bogged down with entrance requirements though, most of the universities you're going for are looking for AAA (Cambridge will want A*AA). Edinburgh wanted AAA and a C in AS Fine Art. Manchester wanted AAA. Best of luck though, and I can tell you now - it's worth it and you'll love every minute.

I'll be happy to answer any further questions on the matter.

Statement of Intent

Sun, 12/01/2014 - 16:39

I have sent away my personal statement and I have been given a few offers. For the interview, the universities require a Statement of Intent.

Did you write one and if so could you possibly give a few pointers for it?

Add new comment

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• Personal statement advice: sociology
• Personal statement advice: sports science
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• Personal statement advice: teacher training and education
• Personal statement advice: veterinary medicine
• Personal statement: finance and accounting
• Personal statement advice: art and design
• Personal statement advice: environmental science
• Personal statement advice: marketing
• Personal statement advice: philosophy
• Personal statement advice: photography
• Personal statement advice: physics
• References for mature students

Architecture: be individual and creative...

Admissions tutors often tell us there is no such thing as a model statement, and architecture is a case in point. For example, tutors at University College London (UCL) want you to write what you find interesting. They don't have any specific things they’re looking for, they don’t necessarily want to know which architects you admire, and they don’t require you to have had any work experience or to have shadowed an architect.

So, it’s more about being individual and creative in your statement. That doesn’t mean being off-the-wall, but having something really interesting, engaging, and relevant to say about what enthuses you and what has motivated you to apply.

...but don't put stuff in just to sound good

Admissions tutors at University of Sheffield take a slightly different stance, saying that ‘a few days’ work experience in a local practice would be beneficial, but not essential'. However, they too share UCL’s point of view by emphasising that 'the most important thing is to be yourself' and that you shouldn’t 'put stuff in because you think it sounds good'. They want it to be enthusiastic and individual to you.

Although there is no such thing as a model statement, you may nonetheless find it helpful to have some guidelines around which to build it. We discussed this with Dan Blott, principal lecturer and schools admissions tutor at the School of Architecture, University of Portsmouth. Dan suggested that you try to answer the following questions:

• What prompted your interest in architecture?
• Are there any buildings and/or places you particularly like? Explain why – don't just list where you've been.
• What architects have you heard of and do you know/like any of their work? What stands out, and why?
• What do you like doing and/or what have you done well in academically that you think is relevant to studying architecture?

Sheffield offers some guidelines too, suggesting you could include why you want to study it, relevant qualities you can bring to the course and to the uni, any achievements, skills, experience or other factors you feel they should know about, and what you think you might want to do with the knowledge you gain.

You're probably starting to notice there are slight contradictions when you compare what different unis say. Don’t be put off by that, just be honest and blend your statement in the way that suits you individually. Be yourself!  

Planning: show your enthusiasm for the subject

We also spoke to Dr Tom Goodfellow, admissions tutor at the Department of Town and Regional Planning at University of Sheffield. For him, it's all about writing your statement in a way that shows you've done your research.

He's looking for students who are attracted to the kind of challenges and opportunities his university's specialist areas will present and who are 'willing to go the extra mile in terms of exploring both the ethical and practical challenges of planning in the twenty-first century’.

Construction: hot tips

Finally, some down-to-earth advice for construction applicants:

‘If you’re applying for courses like construction management, I don't really want to know about what your Dad did, I want to know why you want to be a construction manager and how you are passionate about the construction industry.

‘Or, if you’re applying for a course such as architectural technology, don't tell me about your passion to be an architect, as this just indicates that you regard our course as a fall-back position.’ Delia Forester, Admissions Tutor – University Of Brighton

In other words, be clear about what it is you’re applying for and be specific about why the course you’re applying for appeals to you personally.

We loved Delia’s general tips too:

• 'I don't really want to know that you have been to Florence/Istanbul/New York and were very impressed'
• 'Don’t send in a statement written by the careers department – put it in your own words.'
• 'I do want to know that you already know a bit about the industry, that you are reasonably articulate, and can spell'
• 'Don't use slang or informal or text language.'
• 'Don't have an offensive or inappropriate email address.'

Take a look at our in-depth guide to architecture, building, and planning , covering entry requirements to careers, for some inspiration.

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