The non-refundable graduate application fee for applications to the University of Utah is $55. Applications submitted after the application deadline will incur an additional $30 late fee.

Applicants must write and upload a personal statement in the online application. This and all supporting documents help us get to know your work, your goals, and your abilities as a future architect. Your personal statement should articulate why you are drawn to the profession of architecture in general and to the graduate program in architecture at Utah specifically. Consider what experience prepares you, as well as what particular ambitions you have for your potential studies here at Utah, or how you hope to have changed at the end of your time as a Utah student.

While we encourage you to adhere to rules of good writing, we look for applicants who are not afraid to take risks in their expression. Please don’t hesitate to use a writing style or method that may be outside the mainstream as you express a dynamic position in the essay you submit. Limit your response to a one-page PDF document; maximum number of words is 500. We recommend that you write your personal statement before beginning the online application.

Two letters of recommendation are required for all applicants. We recommend that the letters come from people familiar with the applicant’s design skills. To facilitate this process, you will be asked as part of your online application to enter the names and contact information (including email addresses) of your two recommenders. Once that information is saved, an email will be sent automatically to the recommender with an access code and instructions on how to proceed with the online recommendation. Note that recommendation requests are sent immediately to the recommenders once you save that information, regardless of whether you have completed your application. Please remind recommenders that letters must be completed and submitted by the appropriate deadline.

All applicants must submit a digital portfolio of their work. Your digital portfolio should include evidence of recent, different types of creative work, including more complex assignments. Include what you think is representative of your best work, and what is expressive of you. You may also include any other material you feel would contribute to a more complete understanding of your experience and potential as an architecture student in our program. If you include work done in a professional office or studio, you must identify the professional’s name, your specific contribution to the project and your level of involvement. The manner of presentation is left to your discretion.

Your digital portfolio must contain a title page that includes the following information only: your name, address, phone number, and your University of Utah identification number (if you have one) Maximum file size is limited to 5 mb and no longer than 20 pages. Please know that the title page does not count toward the 20 page limit.

You are required to upload an unofficial transcript from each institution you have attended. Uploading unofficial transcripts will significantly decrease the amount of time required to process your application. Official transcripts will be required if you are admitted.

All international applicants to the University of Utah must provide proof of English proficiency. The acceptable tests and minimum scores are:

• TOEFL: 80 or higher
• IELTS*: 6.5 or higher (*IELTS Indicator is not approved for admissions at this time.)
• DUOLINGO: 105 or higher
• ACT English score of 18 or higher
• SAT Reading score of 27 or higher