For questions not answered in this FAQ list, please email Jamie Lee at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or give her a call at (510) 642-5577.

• How do I request application materials?
• What is the application deadline?
• Can I apply to more than one program at a time?
• I won’t graduate from my undergraduate institution until the end of this spring. Can I still apply for the upcoming fall?
• Do I need an undergraduate degree in architecture to apply to the Master of Architecture program?
• I am currently enrolled in another graduate program. Are my earned units transferable?
• Are interviews required?
• Is there a cut-off point for GPA, GRE, or TOEFL scores?
• If I have applied to the program before and want to apply again, do I need to submit a new application?
• Will you return my application materials and portfolio?
• How do I apply for departmental fellowships?
• How do I find out more information about financial aid?
• What are the California residency requirements?

How do I request application materials?

The department no longer provides applicants with the paper University application as it is available online at the Graduate Division website. Please note: The department accepts only the online application.

What is the application deadline?

The Fall 2009 application deadline is December 1, 2008, for the Master of Science (M.S.) and Ph.D. in Architecture and December 15, 2008, for the Master of Architecture (M.Arch). All supplemental application materials must be postmarked by the corresponding program deadline.

Can I apply to more than one program at a time?

At Berkeley, you may apply to only one graduate or concurrent degree program. Please contact the department for information about the program in which you are interested, or review the information on the web.

I won’t graduate from my undergraduate institution until the end of this spring. Can I still apply for the upcoming fall?

Yes. If admitted, you will need to provide a final transcript from your undergraduate institution that reflects your conferred degree.

Do I need an undergraduate degree in architecture to apply to the Master of Architecture program?

No. While the Option 1 and Option 2 M.Arch programs require an undergraduate degree in architecture, the Option 3 program is designed for those who have earned a bachelor’s degree in a field other than architecture. Option 3 is a three-year, 72-unit coursework program that focuses on design as the core curriculum and requires enrollment in an architectural design studio each semester.

I am currently enrolled in another graduate program. Are my earned units transferable?

Transferable units will be decided upon after review of official transcripts. If admitted, you will be notified by the department as to which transfer units have been accepted and what program requirements have been satisfied.

Are interviews required?

No. The admissions process for the M.Arch, M.S and Ph.D. in Architecture does not require interviews. However, if you are interested in visiting the department or speaking with a graduate advisor regarding the program, please contact the Department of Architecture’s Graduate Admissions Office at (510) 642-5577 or by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Visitors in general are always welcome on the Berkeley campus. Regularly scheduled campus tours are available through campus Visitor Services.

Is there a cut-off point for GPA, GRE, or TOEFL scores?

The University requires a minimum grade-point average of 3.0, B, or equivalent. Please see the department admissions requirements for GPA calculations. There is no cut-off point for the GRE but in general we are looking to see scores above the 50th percentile for each section. Minimum required scores for the TOEFL are 570 for the paper-based test, 230 for the computer-based test, and 68 for the iBT. Please note that test scores are just one component of review when deciding admissions.

If I have applied to the program before and want to apply again, do I need to submit a new application?

If you are reapplying to the program, you will need to submit a new online University application and fee. If you want to reuse some portion of your initial application (letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc.), please email the Graduate Admissions Advisor at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it stating that you are reactivating your file. In addition, you will need to state what application items you will reuse and what items you will submit as new. If you will be reusing transcripts and letters of recommendation, please include the name of the institution and the recommender. The department keeps applications on file for only three years and you may not reactivate an application that exceeds three years.

Will you return my application materials and portfolio?

The application and submitted supporting materials will not be returned to the applicant with the exception of portfolios. If you would like your portfolio returned after the admissions process has been completed, you must provide a prepaid, self-addressed/labeled envelope to the department. We will not return portfolios unless requested by the applicant and accompanied by the required envelope and postage.

How do I apply for departmental fellowships?

There is no separate application for departmental merit-based fellowships. Submission of your application will automatically qualify you for fellowship review.

How do I find out more information about financial aid?

Graduate students are automatically considered for departmental fellowships upon application. If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident interested in Federal need-based aid you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Please visit the University Financial Aid Office for additional information.

What are the California residency requirements?

The University of California resident classification policy for tuition purposes can be found on the Registrar’s website.