How to Apply
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the minimum SAT score required to apply for architecture?
The most important factor, the high school grade-point average (GPA), accounts for approximately two-thirds
of the admission decision. The remaining one-third of the decision is based on other factors, which
may include standardized critical reading and math test scores, class rank, personal statement, and
activities list.
What is the minimum G.P.A. required to apply to the architecture program as a freshman?
2.0
Is the BARCH degree a professional accredited degree?
Yes
Is a portfolio required for a freshman when applying?
No
Who makes the final decisions for admission into the Architecture program?
The Admissions Office makes the final decisions.
I would like to schedule a visit with someone in the architecture department to discuss
your program. How can I make an appointment?
Contact the department office at (814) 865-9535. During the fall and spring semesters we
generally have 2
– 3 faculty members that will meet with prospective students on specific days and times. During
the summer there is not as much flexibility to accommodate prospective students. A visit will
include an information session, and a tour of our facilities within the department.
What is the application deadline for a freshman student?
November 30
What is the application deadline for an advanced standing (transfer from an external
institution) student?
December 31
When can special talent, advanced standing or change of major students submit their portfolios?
January 1 – February 15. No portfolios will be accepted before January 1 or after
February 15.
When will I be notified regarding my portfolio decision?
The committee will try to notify you in writing by April 1.
Are there any scholarships available for incoming freshman?
The vast majority of scholarships are available from the 2nd year to the 5th year of studies. We currently over 60 scholarships and awards.
When are students accepted into the Architecture program?
Fall semesters only.
What is the length of time to complete the undergraduate program?
Five years for the B.Arch. degree with a total of 162 credits. An alternative is the four year B.S. in Architecture degree requiring 135 credits.
Is there a semester abroad program?
There is a mandatory semester in Rome, Italy, during the fourth-year, which reinforces
the cultural and social components emphasized in the studio. Design, theory and analysis
courses are taught by the Pantheon Institute with the assistance of
Roman architects and local professors.
What is the application deadline to apply to the M.Arch. graduate program?
January 15
How can I find out if my credits from another institution will transfer?
Students need to contact the Admissions
Office.
I have taken some architecture courses at another institution. Will these credits
count towards any of the arch requirements?
The student will need to supply a copy of the syllabus to the department. The syllabus will
be reviewed by the students’ advisor to determine if they are equivalent to any of our courses.
If they are equivalent, the student will need to complete a petition in order for the credits
to be applied to the requirement. A petition form can be picked up in the architecture department
office.
How can I apply for the arch minor?
The student will need to stop by the department office to pickup a minor application
form. The form needs to be completed and submitted to Pier Bandini. He will review the
form and approve or deny the request. If the form is approved the minor will be added to the
students record.
If I am accepted into the program, when will I know who my advisor is?
You will be assigned an advisor approximately three weeks before the semester begins. If
you access your account via eLion, your advisor will appear on your student record once it is
entered into the system.
Who should I contact with questions about your graduate program?
Chair of the Graduate Program, (814) 865-9535.
What is the length of time for the graduate program?
A graduate student may be able to complete the requirements for the M.Arch. in one year. Those
students who are awarded an assistantship will require more than two semesters and a summer to
complete the requirements.
Is the M.Arch degree a professional degree?
No. It is a post-professional degree for students who have already completed a professional
degree from a five-year program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
or its equivalent.
What is the minimum G.P.A. required for admission to the graduate program in Architecture?
You must have a 3.0 G.P.A. average on a 4.0 point scale or equivalent.
Where can I obtain an application to the M.Arch. program?
You can apply online with the Graduate School at the following website: https://ivy.oas.psu.edu/cgi-bin/gradframe.exe/launch/gradframe
In addition to the online graduate application, what other information do I need to submit
to the architecture department?
Statement of interest for study, portfolio, other evidence of academic excellence, official
transcript, GRE scores (highly encouraged, but not mandatory), three letters of recommendation,
TOEFL score, minimum 580 (paper) or 250 (computer) is required for international students