It is a smart decision to pursue a career in architecture. Indeed, it is a highly regarded career in which you will have the potential to have a direct impact on the world around you. It also appears to pay very well.
The following list provides the Top 20 Colleges of Architecture for Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses in the World.
- 1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- 2. Delft University of Technology
- 3. University College London (UCL)
- 4. ETH Zürich
- 5. Harvard University
- 6. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
- 7. Politecnico di Milano
- 8. Manchester School of Architecture (MSA)
- 9. University of Cambridge
- 10. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
- 11. Tsinghua University
- 12. National University of Singapore (NUS)
- 13. Columbia University
- 14. University of Hong Kong (HKU)
- 15. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- 16. University of Tokyo
- 17. University of Melbourne
- 18. University of Sydney
- 19. Tongji University
- 20. KTH Royal Institute of Technology
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT is one of, if not the most pioneering institutions in the world. Naturally, their architecture programme reflects this. The faculty is keen to emphasize the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, especially where environmental solutions are concerned. This focus on sustainable architecture, and the research that supports and drives it, is a key factor in MIT’s lofty ranking.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Name of Institute | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
Location | Cambridge, USA |
Year of Establishment | 1865 |
Affiliated With | MIT |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – 150 |
Duration | B. Arch – 4 years M. Arch – 2.5 years |
Fees | Bachelor of Architecture – INR 40,61,158 (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.mit.edu/ https://architecture.mit.edu/ |
Facilities @ MIT –
- Housing and Dining
- Athletics and Recreation
- Health and Wellness Facilities
- Hostel
- Library
- Parking and Transportation
MIT Admission Process –
- The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of each and every single applicant whose first language is not English, regardless of citizenship or residency in the US while attending other educational institutions.
- TOEFL – 90
- Recommended score – 100+.
- Recommend scores of at least 23 for each section.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicants must have passed 12th.
- Following courses are recommended –
- 4 years of English.
- Mathematics, at least to the level of calculus.
- Two or more years of history / social studies.
- Biology.
- Chemistry.
- Physics
- While these courses are not required but students having studied these courses would have higher probability to get admission.
2. Delft University of Technology
Based several miles north of Rotterdam, the Delft University of Technology’s bachelor’s degree programme explores urbanism and building science as well as conventional architecture studies. This broad, wider-ranging approach has seen the university consistently retain its place as one of the foremost technical institutions in Europe and the world.
Name of Department | Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment Delft University of Technology |
Name of Institute | TU Delft |
Location | Delft, the Netherlands |
Year of Establishment | 1842 |
Affiliated With | IDEA, Climate-KIC, CESEAR, EUA, 4TU, UNITECH, SEFI, SAE, ATHENS, PEGASUS |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – 400 (Various Bachelor Courses) |
Duration | Architecture B.Sc. – 4 years M. Arch – 2 years |
Fees | Bachelor of Architecture – INR 12.6 Lakhs (1st year tuition fees) Master of Architecture – INR 16.3 Lakhs (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | Architecture B.Sc., M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.tudelft.nl/en/ https://www.tudelft.nl/en/education/programmes/bachelors/bk/bachelor-of-architecture-urbanism-and-building-sciences |
Facilities @ TU Delft –
- Public Transport
- Hostel
- Library
- Bicycle Facility
- Cafeteria
- Laboratories
- Botanical Garden
TU Delft Admission Process –
- A good command of the Dutch language is required for the Dutch taught Bachelor programmes. You have to meet our Dutch language proficiency requirement before the start of your study programme. If you have no previous knowledge of Dutch, you have to pass the Dutch language course offered by TU Delft’s Centre for Languages and Academic Skills.
- Passed Dutch exam – International Baccalaureate (IB) Dutch A.
- Note: you can only start the Dutch language course if you received a TU Delft admission letter stating that you are (conditionally) admitted.
- TU Delft will also accept the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition, provided that you meet the below mentioned test scores. The IELTS Indicator test however cannot be accepted as it does not compare to the IELTS Academic test.
- A TOEFL iBT with an overall band score of at least 70. TU Delft does not accept TOEFL MyBest scores; the required scores should be obtained in one single test.
- IELTS (academic version) with an overall band score of at least 5.5.
- Cambridge Assessment English. Only the following certificates are accepted – B2 First (formerly known as Cambridge English (FCE))
Eligibility Criteria –
- A secondary school diploma considered equivalent to the Dutch pre-university diploma (VWO). In addition, for Bachelor in Architecture programme you must have passed the final examinations in the required subjects –
- Dutch A + Mathematics: AA HL + Physics SL.
- If you hold a Standard XII diploma (Academic Stream) All India Senior School Certificate Examination of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) or (CISCE) with at least 75% in 5 subjects (and for the mandatory subjects for the specific Bachelor of Science programme at least an A2 result) and you fulfil the Proficiency in English (section 2. Proof of language proficiency) you are eligible for admission to the Bachelor programmes of TU Delft.
3. University College London (UCL)
Having held a top place among UK universities for architecture since 2001, UCL is a constant innovator in the teaching, research and study methods of the profession.
Name of Department | The Bartlett School of Architecture University College London |
Name of Institute | UCL |
Location | London, England |
Year of Establishment | 1841 |
Affiliated With | Alan Turing Institute, ACU, ENTER, EUC, Francis Crick Institute, G5, Golden Triangle, LERU, Russell Group, SES, Thomas Young Centre, UCL Partners, UCLH, University of London, URA, Universities UK. |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – 3500 (Various Bachelor Courses) |
Duration | Architecture B.Sc. (ARB/RIBA Part 1) – 3 years Architectural & Interdisciplinary Studies BSc – 3 years Architecture M.Sc. (ARB Part 1 & 2) – 5 years |
Fees | Architecture B.Sc. – INR 22.26 Lakhs (£25,800) (1st year tuition fees) Architecture M.Sc. – INR 22.26 Lakhs (£25,800) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | Architecture B.Sc., Architecture M.Sc. |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ https://www.ucl.ac.uk/bartlett/architecture/ |
Facilities @ UCL –
- Workshops
- Parks
- Restaurants, Cafes
- Museums and Galleries
- Libraries
- Hostel
UCL Admission Process –
- International students should apply to UCL via UCAS, using the same process as UK students.
- If your first language is not English, you must be able to provide recent evidence that your spoken and written command of the English language is adequate for the programmes for which you have applied.
- A number of qualifications and tests are recognised, UCL’s preferred English language qualification being the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The qualification or test result must have been awarded at the appropriate level (standard, good or advanced).
- British Council International Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Version) –
- Standard level: Overall grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the subtests.
- Good level: Overall grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests.
- Advanced level: Overall grade of 7.5 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) –
- Standard level: Score of 92 overall with 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening.
- Good level: Score of 100 overall with 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening.
- Advanced level: Score of 109 overall 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Successful completion of one year of a Bachelor Degree at an Indian university recognised by UCL, with an average grade equivalent to UK Upper Second Class.
- The Year 12/Standard 12 Indian School Certificate awarded by CISCE or CBSE with five subjects at 90, 90, 90, 85, 85.
- Please see ‘A Levels’ for subject requirements. Where A* is required at A Level, 95 will be required in an examination subject; for A, 90 will be required; and for B, 85 will be required.
4. ETH Zürich
Established in 1855 and widely regarded as one of the finest STEM institutions in the world (Albert Einstein is among its alumni), ETH Zürich offers several undergraduate and postgraduate courses. ETH Zürich is characterized by its emphasis on theoretical study rather than application, and this is a feature of its architecture courses.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture ETH Zürich |
Name of Institute | ETH Zürich |
Location | Zürich, Switzerland |
Year of Establishment | 1854 |
Affiliated With | CESAER, EUA, GlobalTech, IARU. |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | B.Sc. ETH Architecture – 3 years Architecture M.Sc. (ARB Part 1 & 2) – 2 years |
Fees | Architecture B.Sc. – INR 1.13 Lakhs (1st year tuition fees) Architecture M.Sc. – INR 1.13 Lakhs (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B.Sc. ETH Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://ethz.ch/en.html https://arch.ethz.ch/en |
Facilities @ ETH Zürich –
- Workshops
- Parks
- Restaurants, Cafes
- Museums and Galleries
- Libraries
- Hostel
ETH Zürich Admission Process –
- Application to Bachelor’s degree studies at ETH Zurich is in principle open to all. It is possible, however, that certain applicants must pass an ETH Zurich entrance examination before they may commence their studies.
- The main teaching language during Bachelor’s degree studies is German. The German language requirements must be fulfilled before the start of the study programme.
- The C1 German language certificate may be no older than 2 years at the start of the application period.
- The Goethe certificate C2 may be no older than 5 years at the start of the application period.
- Goethe-Zertifikat C1 – with minimum grade ‘gut’.
- Goethe-Zertifikat C2 – all exam sections must be passed.
- TestDaF – with minimum score 4 in all four exam sections of the same session.
- ÖSD Zertifikat C1 – with minimum grade ‘gut bestanden’ (both written and oral examinations must be sat in the same session).
- DSH-3 – only the registered ® Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang ausländischer Studienbewerber.
- Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz – Zweite Stufe – DSD – second level with minimum level C1 in each examination part.
- telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule – with minimum grade ‘gut’ (both written and oral examinations must be sat in the same session).
Eligibility Criteria –
- Recognized upper secondary school-leaving certificate – Higher Secondary School Certificate. (issued by an official examination board) – with the following general education subjects (during the last 3 years) –
- First language (native language).
- Second language.
- Mathematics.
- Natural sciences (biology, chemistry or physics).
- Humanities and social sciences (geography, history or economics/law).
5. Harvard University
Jointly administered by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and the Graduate School of Design, Harvard University’s architecture programme offers the kind of revolutionary teaching practices and innovative course structure that you would expect from one of the world’s foremost educational institutions, with students able to focus on one of two main undergraduate routes: Design Studies or History and Theory.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture Harvard University Graduate School of Design |
Name of Institute | Harvard University |
Location | Cambridge, USA |
Year of Establishment | 1636 |
Affiliated With | NAICU, AICUM, AAU, URA, Space-grant |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture – Undergraduate Architecture Studies is a track within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, History of Art and Architecture – 4 years Master of Architecture I – 3.5 years Master of Landscape Architecture I AP – 2 years Master of Landscape Architecture I – 3 years Master of Architecture Urban Planning – 2 years Master of Architecture I – 2 years Master of Landscape Architecture II – 2 years Master in Design Studies – 2 years Master of Architecture Urban Design – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch – INR 39.19 Lakhs ($53,420) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch – INR 39.19 Lakhs ($53,420) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.harvard.edu/ https://www.gsd.harvard.edu/architecture/ |
Facilities @ Harvard University –
- Parks
- Restaurants, Cafes
- Museums and Galleries
- Libraries
- Hostel
Harvard University Admission Process –
- ESL Language Requirements/Language Requirements –
- TOEFL: 92 – With minimum section requirements of 23.
- TOEFL iBT: 104 – With individual scores of 26 or above.
- GRE – Accepted. Average GRE scores –
- Verbal – 157.
- Quantitative – 159.
- Analytical writing sections – 4.0.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicants must have passed 12th from a recognized university with Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry.
6. University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
Based just east of the San Francisco Bay Area, the UCB’s College of Environmental Design (CED) is a renowned and prestigious school that offers full-time places to around 1,000 graduate and undergraduate students.
Name of Department | College of Environmental Design (CED) University of California Berkeley |
Name of Institute | University of California Berkeley (UCB) |
Location | Berkeley, USA |
Year of Establishment | 1868 |
Affiliated With | AAU, IARU, URA, APRU, APLU, Space-grant |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture – 5 years Master of Architecture (M. Arch) – 1 year Master of Advanced Architectural Design (M.A.A.D.) – 2 years Master of City Planning (M.C.P.) – 2 years Master of Landscape Architecture (M.L.A.) – 2 years Master of Urban Design (M.U.D.) – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch – INR 35.22 Lakhs ($48,006) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch – INR 29.22 Lakhs ($39,808) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.berkeley.edu/ https://ced.berkeley.edu/academics/architecture/ |
Facilities @ UCB –
- Restaurants, Cafes
- Libraries
- Hostel
- Laboratories
UCB Admission Process –
- Proficiency in English is critical to success at UC Berkeley.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 80 or better (Berkeley prefers 100).
- International English Language testing System (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.5.
- DuoLingo English Test (DET) with a minimum score of 115 (Fall 2021 only).
Eligibility Criteria –
- To be considered for admission to UC Berkeley, international applicants must –
- Finish secondary school.
- Earn a certificate of completion, which allows admission to a university in their home country or country of graduation.
- You must complete both year X and XII state board or CBSE examinations, with average marks above 70 and no mark below 60.
- The international school must be accredited by your country’s Ministry of Education or have U.S. regional accreditation. You also must earn a certificate of completion that will allow you to enter a university in the country upon which your educational system is based. For example, if your international school follows a U.S. curriculum, your school must have U.S. regional accreditation and you must graduate with a U.S. high school diploma.
7. Politecnico di Milano
Founded in 1863, the Politecnico di Milano is one of Europe’s most renowned design and engineering schools, with several Pritzker and Nobel Prize winners among its alumni.
Name of Department | Laurea Magistrale Programmes – Architettura, Ingegneria delle Costruzioni e Ambiente Costruito (Architecture, Built Envirorment and Construction Engineering – ABC) Politecnico di Milano |
Name of Institute | Politecnico di Milano |
Location | Milan, Italy |
Year of Establishment | 1863 |
Affiliated With | PEGASUS, NEREUS, TIME, CESAER, EUA |
Intake | Master of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Master of Architecture – 2 years |
Fees | M. Arch – INR 3.36 Lakhs (3898,20€) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.polimi.it/en/ https://www.polimi.it/en/international-prospective-students/laurea-magistrale-programmes-equivalent-to-master-of-science/programme-catalogue/architecture-building-architecture/ |
Facilities @ Politecnico di Milano –
- Restaurants, Cafes
- Libraries
- Hostel
- Laboratories
UCB Admission Process –
- All applicants need to provide a document attesting their English language knowledge.
- TOEFL – CBT – 210 / IBT – 78 / PBT – 547.
- TOEIC (only listening and reading) – 720.
- IELTS (Academic) – 6.
- CAMBRIDGE: Proficiency – Pass at grade C / Advanced – Pass at grade C / First – Pass at grade B.
- ENGLISH AS BACHELOR MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION: Students who can prove that English was the medium of instruction of their Bachelor Degree (at least for 3 years) are exempted from providing any English language certification.
- Students applying to an Italian taught programme must also provide an Italian language certificate, level B1 (Common European Framework).
Eligibility Criteria –
- A Bachelor Degree in Architecture and a portfolio are mandatory.
- The portfolio must be uploaded on your online profile in the section “Master of Science programme(s) selection” and cannot be bigger than 20 MB.
- Minimum GPA (percentage or weighed score) required for the application is 70 out of 100.
8. Manchester School of Architecture (MSA)
Located directly in the heart of the city, MSA is a collaboration between two universities: the Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester. The result is one of the largest and most prestigious architecture schools in the country.
Name of Department | Manchester School of Architecture |
Name of Institute | MSA |
Location | Manchester, England |
Year of Establishment | 1996 |
Affiliated With | ARB, RIBA, The Landscape Institute |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture BA – 3 years Master of Architecture – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch – INR 25.37 Lakhs (£25,000) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch – INR 25.37 Lakhs ((£25,000) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.msa.ac.uk/ |
Facilities @ MSA –
- Workshops
- Laboratories
- IT Resources
- Hostel
- Library
- Cafeteria
MSA Admission Process –
- Apply through UCAS – Course Code – K100.
- All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either –
- GCSE/iGCSE English Language Grade C/4, or;
- IELTS 6.5 overall, with 6.5 in writing and no other sub-section below 6.0, or;
- An acceptable equivalent qualification.
Eligibility Criteria –
- A-LEVEL – AAA – A mixture of science or mathematics and humanities or arts subjects is preferred, but not essential.
9. University of Cambridge
The Department is located in the Faculty of Architecture and History of Art and we share the same Library and buildings. The Department of Architecture is over 100 years old. Regularly lauded as one of the leading architecture schools in the world and offer an exciting portfolio of degree programmes which mix design with academic rigour.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture – Faculty of Architecture and History of Art University of Cambridge |
Name of Institute | University of Cambridge |
Location | Cambridge, England |
Year of Establishment | 1209 |
Affiliated With | Russel Group, EUA, G5 Universities, Golden Triangle, LERU, IARU, Universities UK |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture BA – 3 years Master of Architecture – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch – INR 29.51 Lakhs (£29,082) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch – INR 47.45 Lakhs (£46,743) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.cam.ac.uk/ https://www.arct.cam.ac.uk/ |
Facilities @ University of Cambridge –
- Workshops
- Laboratories
- IT Resources
- Hostel
- Library
- Cafeteria
University of Cambridge Admission Process –
- Undergraduate applications to Cambridge must be made through UCAS.
- IELTS – 7.5 – Usually with 7.0 or above in each element.
- Applicants need to submit portfolio (requirement depends upon the selected college).
- The Architecture Admissions Assessment will take place in individual Colleges in Cambridge before the subject interview.
- The assessment is 1 hour in length and consists of two parts – Part 1 is a 30-min writing skills test and Part 2 is a 30-min graphic and spatial ability test.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicants must hold one of the following class XII certificates –
- CISCE and NIOS – applicants will require scores of 90% or higher in five or more relevant subjects.
- CBSE – applicants will require five or more A1 grades in relevant subjects.
- State Boards – applicants will be considered on a case by case basis. Applicants will typically require scores of 95% or equivalent in five or more relevant subjects.
- May required – Mathematics or Physics.
10. École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
As one of the leading STEM schools in Europe, the EPFL is not only known for its excellent teaching and innovative research but also its cosmopolitanism. The school also guarantees its students personal workplaces, state-of-the-art facilities, workshop visits and personal travel that will allow them to expand their knowledge.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne |
Name of Institute | EPFL |
Location | Lausanne, Switzerland |
Year of Establishment | 1853 |
Affiliated With | AUF, EUA, EuroTech, CLUSTER, RESCIF, TIME |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture – 3 years Master of Architecture – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch – INR 1.21 Lakhs (CHF 1560) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch – INR 1.21 Lakhs (CHF 1560) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.epfl.ch/en/ https://www.epfl.ch/education/bachelor/programs/architecture/ |
Facilities @ EPFL –
- Workshops
- Laboratories
- IT Resources
- Hostel
- Library
- Cafeteria
EPFL Admission Process –
- EPFL considers that level B2 in French (according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is required to follow its Bachelor’s programme. Level C1 is highly recommended.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicants holding an upper secondary school certificate from a country that is not a member of EU nor EFTA can be accepted, provided that their title fulfils all of the following conditions –
- The final grade average is 80% or more of the maximum grade.
- The completed certificate is a pre-University title granted on the basis of a general education.
- The completed certificate is in a scientific stream (should streams be offered by the country granting the certificate); – the following subjects are part of the certificate: 1) mathematics, 2) physics, 3) national language of the country granting the certificate, and 4) second modern language.
- At least three of the following subjects are part of the certificate and/or the transcripts of the upper secondary studies –
- applied mathematics or computer science,
- chemistry or biology,
- general geography,
- general history or general philosophy, and
- third modern language.
Also read related article – Top 10 Architectural Websites Useful for Architecture Students
11. Tsinghua University
Located at the former imperial gardens of the Qing Dynasty, Tsinghua University belongs in the elite C9 League of Chinese universities. While the courses will place focus on architectural principles and developments at a worldwide scale, students are also prompted to consider China’s own development at this front, thus placing both a global and local focus on the subject.
Name of Department | School of Architecture Tsinghua University |
Name of Institute | Tsinghua University |
Location | Beijing, China |
Year of Establishment | 1911 |
Affiliated With | AEARU, APRU, MISA, C9 |
Intake | Master of Architecture – 20 |
Duration | Master of Architecture – 2 years |
Fees | M. Arch – INR 13.14 Lakhs (RMB 120,000) – Total (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.tsinghua.edu.cn/en/ http://www.arch.tsinghua.edu.cn/column/Departments |
Facilities @ Tsinghua University –
- Workshops
- Laboratories
- IT Resources
- Hostel
- Library
- Cafeteria
Tsinghua University Admission Process –
- Applicants should complete an Online Application on this website during the designated THU application period.
- Chinese Proficiency Requirement – HSK band 4 – with a score of 195 or above.
Eligibility Criteria –
- An accredited professional Bachelor degree in architecture or an equivalent degree to a Bachelor’s degree.
- Portfolio: Those materials should demonstrate the applicant’s competence in design and research.
- CV (Curriculum Vitae).
12. National University of Singapore (NUS)
Situated in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic cities, NUS’s BA (Arch) and M. Arch programmes are designed to attract architects who are in step with their fast-paced surroundings.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture National University of Singapore |
Name of Institute | NUS |
Location | Singapore, Singapore |
Year of Establishment | 1980 |
Affiliated With | ACU, IARU, APRU, Universitas 21, GEM4, AUN, ASAIHL, NUS High School of Mathematics and Science, Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs, Washington University in St. Louis McDonnell International Scholars Academy, UAiTED |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Arts in Architecture BA – 4 years Bachelor of Landscape Architecture – 4 years Master of Architecture – 2 years Master of Arts in Architectural Conservation – 2 years Master of Landscape Architecture – 2 years Master of Science in Integrated Sustainable Design – 1 year Master of Arts in Urban Design – 1 year Master of Urban Planning – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch – INR 21.22 Lakhs (SGD 39,050) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch – INR 22.28 Lakhs (SGD 41,000) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.nus.edu.sg/ https://www.sde.nus.edu.sg/arch/ |
Facilities @ NUS –
- Workshops
- Laboratories
- IT Resources
- Hostel
- Library
- Cafeteria
NUS Admission Process –
- ACT with Writing – The ACT consists of 5 sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science and Writing Test (Optional). The minimum acceptable composite score for consideration by NUS is 29 and the writing component score is 8.
- SAT – The SAT consists of 2 sections – Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Mathematics. The minimum acceptable test scores are 600 for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and 650 for Mathematics.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Year 12 or Higher Level pass in Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics or Physical Science. (CBSE, ISC and State boards).
13. Columbia University
Based in Upper Manhattan, New York City, Columbia University is one of the most prestigious Ivy League schools in the country. Architecture majors, then, are taught the core principles of form, space and material in pursuit of a liberal arts degree.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation Columbia University |
Name of Institute | Columbia University |
Location | New York City, USA |
Year of Establishment | 1754 |
Affiliated With | AAU, URA, 568 Group, NAICU, Space-grant |
Intake | Master of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Master of Architecture – 3 years Master of Science Advanced Architectural Design– 2 years Master of Science Architecture and Urban Design – 2 years Master of Architecture Urban Planning – 2 years |
Fees | M. Arch – INR 41.68 Lakhs ($56,940) (1st year tuition fees) M. Sc. – INR 62.52 Lakhs ($85,410) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.columbia.edu/ https://www.arch.columbia.edu/ |
Facilities @ Columbia University –
- Library
- Architectural Gallery
- Lab
- Workshop
- Hostel
- Cafeteria
Columbia University Admission Process –
- GRE – Columbia GSAPP is waiving the GRE requirement on master’s degree program applications.
- TOEFL – All applicants whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL scores (with the exception of Introduction to Architecture applicants). At this time there is no minimum TOEFL score required for admission.
Eligibility Criteria –
- 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.
- A digital portfolio is required for admission to the M. Arch, M.S. AAD, M.S. AUD, and M.S. CCCP* programs. 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.
- Résumé/CV.
14. University of Hong Kong (HKU)
Considered to be Asia’s Global University, HKU is a truly innovative institution. HKU’s architectural studies curriculum aims to create a sense of community among its students, fostering this within the work done in design studios. The degree not only sets the groundwork for aspiring architects but also provides students with knowledge that allows them to enter other related sectors.
Name of Department | Faculty of Architecture University of Hong Kong |
Name of Institute | HKU |
Location | Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong |
Year of Establishment | 1911 |
Affiliated With | ASAIHL, Universitas 21, ACU, JUPAS, AACSB, EQUIS, APRU, UGC |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies – 4 years Master of Architecture – 2 years Master of Architecture (Design) – 3 years |
Fees | M. Arch – INR 16.16 Lakhs (HK$171,590) (1st year tuition fees) M. Sc. – INR 16.10 Lakhs (HK$171,000) (1st year tuition fees) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.hku.hk/ https://www.arch.hku.hk/programmes_/arch/ |
Facilities @ HKU –
- Library
- Lab
- Workshop
- Hostel
- Cafeteria
HKU Admission Process –
- Candidates applying for admission to the Bachelor programme are required to take part in an Aptitude Exercise (AE).
- IELTS – 93.
- TOEFL – 6.5.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicants must have passed 12th with 85% in each of the three elective subjects.
15. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
UCLA is a world-renowned university with a long list of Nobel laureates and MacArthur fellows under its belt. UCLA is called a Public Ivy, and is ranked among the best public universities in the United States by major college and university rankings.
Name of Department | Architecture and Urban Design University of California |
Name of Institute | UCLA |
Location | Los Angeles, USA |
Year of Establishment | 1919 |
Affiliated With | AAU, APLU, Pacific Rim, URA, Space-grant |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies B.A. – 2 years Master of Architecture – 3 years Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Design – 1 year |
Fees | M. Arch – INR 30.94 Lakhs ($42,241.03) (1st year tuition fees) M. Sc. – INR 27.13 Lakhs ($37,050.37) (1st year tuition fees) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.ucla.edu/ https://www.aud.ucla.edu/ |
Facilities @ UCLA –
- Library
- Lab
- Workshop
- Hostel
- Cafeteria
- Clubs and Recreation
- Health & Medical Facilities
UCLA Admission Process –
- For applicants whose native language is not English, a score of at least 92 (iBT), 580 (paper and pencil test) or 237 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an overall band score of 7.0 on the International English Testing System (IELTS) examination is required for admission.
- Take the SAT or ACT exam with the writing or essay component.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicant must have passed year 12 or Higher Level pass in Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics or Physical Science. (CBSE, ISC and State boards).
- Applicants must have a minimum 3.4 GPA or higher and no grades lower than a C in required high school courses.
- The Applicants can also substitute SAT subject tests for courses.
- Applicants must complete the following courses with a ‘B’ average in order to be UC.
- 1 English course in Critical Thinking/Writing.
- 1 English course in Composition.
- 1 Mathematics course.
Also read related article – Architecture salary: Highest paying firm for architects around the world?
16. University of Tokyo
The University of Tokyo is a public research university located in Bunkyō, Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1877, it was the first of the imperial universities. University of Tokyo (Todai) is considered to be the most selective and prestigious university in Japan.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture University of Tokyo |
Name of Institute | University of Tokyo (Todai) |
Location | Tokyo, Japan |
Year of Establishment | 1877 |
Affiliated With | IARU, AEARU, AGS, BESETOHA, AALAU, Washing University in St. Louis McDonnell International Scholars Academy |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture – 4 years Master of Architecture – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch. – INR 3.56 Lakhs (¥535,800) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch. – INR 3.56 Lakhs (¥535,800) (1st year tuition fees) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/index.html |
Facilities @ University of Tokyo –
- Hospitals
- Libraries
- Conference Halls
- Botanical Gardens
- Athletic Facilities
- Museums
- Hostel
University of Tokyo Admission Process –
- The University of Tokyo entrance examination.
- Students must satisfy one or more of the conditions below. The requirement does not apply to Foreign Language courses.
- For courses offered in Japanese – JLPT N1 certificate holders.
- For courses offered in English – Those with the required TOEFL/IELTS/Cambridge Examinations scores.
- TOEFL iBT – Minimum score 80.
- TOEFL PBT – Minimum score 550.
- IELTS Academic – Minimum score 6.5.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicant must have completed 12 years of school education or passed an examination of an equivalent standard.
- Prospective students must have completed basic undergraduate-level classes in Chemistry and at least 2 of the following subjects before applying to GSC: Mathematics, Physics, or Biology.
17. University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a public research university located in Melbourne, Australia. Founded in 1853, it is Australia’s second oldest university and the oldest in Victoria.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture University of Melbourne |
Name of Institute | University of Melbourne |
Location | Melbourne, Australia |
Year of Establishment | 1853 |
Affiliated With | Universitas 21, Go8, APRU, ACU, Washington University in St. Louis McDonnell International Scholars Academy |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture – 3 years Master of Architecture Urban Design – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch. – INR 56.58-78.86 Lakhs (AUD$100,992-$140,768) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch. – INR 56.58-78.86 Lakhs (AUD$100,992-$140,768) (1st year tuition fees) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.unimelb.edu.au/ https://study.unimelb.edu.au/find/courses/major/architecture/ |
Facilities @ University of Melbourne –
- Libraries
- Hostel
- Labs and Halls
- Workshops
- Cafeterias
University of Melbourne Admission Process –
- All applicants to the University of Melbourne must satisfy the English language requirements. If you are not from an English-speaking background or education, you need to meet the English Language requirements through IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson Test of English (academic) or Cambridge English (CAE).
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicant must have passed year 12 or Higher Level pass in Chemistry or Mathematics or Physics or Physical Science. (CBSE, ISC and State boards).
18. University of Sydney
The University of Sydney (USYD) is an Australian public research university in Sydney, Australia. Founded in 1850, it is Australia’s first university and is regarded as one of the world’s leading universities. The university is known as one of Australia’s six sandstone universities.
Name of Department | School of Architecture, Design and Planning University of Sydney |
Name of Institute | University of Sydney (USYD) |
Location | Sydney, Australia |
Year of Establishment | 1850 |
Affiliated With | Go8, APRU, ASAIHL, ACU, CEMS |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture and Environments – 3 years Bachelor of Design in Architecture – 3 years Master of Architecture – 2 years Master of Architecture Science – 1.5 years Master of Design in Architecture – 2 years Master of Architecture Heritage Conservation – 1.5 years Master of Architecture Urban Design – 1.5 years Master of Architecture Urban and Regional Planning – 1.5 years Master of Urbanism (Heritage Conservation) – 2 years Master of Urbanism (Urban Design) – 2 years Master of Urbanism (Urban and Regional Planning) – 2 years |
Fees | B. Arch. – INR 24.13 Lakhs (AUD $43,000) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch. – INR 23.60 Lakhs (AUD$42,000) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://www.sydney.edu.au/ https://www.sydney.edu.au/architecture/ |
Facilities @ USYD –
- Libraries
- Hostel
- Labs and Halls
- Workshops
- Cafeterias
USYD Admission Process –
- Admission to a course is subject to meeting all essential admission criteria and availability of places.
- The University converts your score to an ATAR equivalent score.
- IELTS Score – A minimum result of 7.0 overall and a minimum result of 6.0 in each band.
- TOEFL iBT Score – A minimum result of 96 overall including a minimum result of 17 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 19 in Writing.
- TOEFL PBT Score – A minimum result of 592 overall including a minimum result of 4.5 in Writing.
- A minimum result of 68 overall and a minimum result of 54 in each band.
Eligibility Criteria –
- To be eligible for admission into one of our undergraduate degrees, you need to have completed one of the below qualifications.
- All India Senior School Certificate (CBSE).
- Indian School Certificate (CISCE).
- Indian Higher Secondary Certificate (State board exams).
19. Tongji University
Established in 1907 by the German government together with German physicians in Shanghai, Tongji is one of the oldest and most selective, most prestigious universities in China under the Project 985.
Name of Department | Department of Architecture Tongji University |
Name of Institute | Tongji University |
Location | Shanghai, China |
Year of Establishment | 1907 |
Affiliated With | Yangtze Delta Universities Alliance, Asian-European Laotse Universities Network |
Intake | Bachelor of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Bachelor of Architecture – 4 years Master of Architecture – 2.5 years |
Fees | B. Arch. – INR 3.22 Lakhs (RMB/CNY 28,700) (1st year tuition fees) M. Arch. – INR 3.68 Lakhs (RMB/CNY 32,800) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | B. Arch, M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | https://en.tongji.edu.cn/ https://caup.tongji.edu.cn/caupen/11031/list.htm |
Facilities @ Tongji University –
- Libraries
- Hostel
- Labs and Halls
- Workshops
- Cafeterias
- Medical Facilities
Tongji University Admission Process –
- English Language Certificate –
- IELTS: 7.0 and above (MIN. 6.5 in each subtest).
- TOEFL (IBT): 94 (min. 25 in writing, 23 in reading, listening and speaking).
- Chinese language – New HSK Band 4 (total score over 210) and one-year Chinese study experience.
Eligibility Criteria –
- To be eligible for admission into one of our undergraduate degrees, you need to have completed one of the below qualifications.
- All India Senior School Certificate (CBSE).
- Indian School Certificate (CISCE).
- Indian Higher Secondary Certificate (State board exams).
20. KTH Royal Institute of Technology
As Sweden’s largest technical university, the KTH Royal Institute of Technology prides itself on its world-renowned academic programmes. KTH’s architecture postgraduate programme offers an array of learning opportunities, including studio-based teaching, orientation courses, seminars and independent projects. The programme fuses artistic and technological elements, giving you the opportunity to develop your knowledge around subjects such as aesthetics, sustainability, design and economics.
Name of Department | School of Architecture KTH Royal Institute of Technology |
Name of Institute | KTH Royal Institute of Technology |
Location | Stockholm, Sweden |
Year of Establishment | 1827 |
Affiliated With | CLUSTER, CESAER, EUA, TIME Association, PEGASUS, NORDTEK, Nordic Five Tech, UNITE |
Intake | Master of Architecture – Not specified |
Duration | Master of Architecture – 2 years |
Fees | M. Arch. – INR 22.20 Lakhs (SEK 2,60,000) (1st year tuition fees) (Fees specified are exclusive of additional costs.) |
Courses Offered | M. Arch |
Hostel Facilities | Yes |
Website | www.kth.se/en https://www.arch.kth.se/en |
Facilities @ KTH Royal Institute of Technology –
- Libraries
- Hostel
- Labs and Halls
- Workshops
- Cafeterias
- Medical Facilities
KTH Royal Institute of Technology Admission Process –
- IELTS Accepted but not mandatory.
Eligibility Criteria –
- Applicants must hold a four-year bachelor degree or master degree with three-year bachelor degree from a vehicle, mechanical engineering, or similar programme with sufficient theoretical depth and good academic results.
- The Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in Architecture corresponding to 180 ECTS credits or equivalent.
- Applicants are required to submit a portfolio PDF format with maximum size of 10 MB, no more than 7 pages + 1-page cover sheet, single-sided, not spreaded.
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