Faq - Columbia GSAPP

FAQs

WHEN IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE?

We have rolling admission, which means we accept applications until all spots are filled. The program is not usually filled until late spring, however we recommend applying as soon as you can as its gets more competitive as fewer seats are available.

IS IT OK TO APPLY WITH NO BACKGROUND?

Yes. Studios are assigned based on experience.

CAN I WORK DURING THE PROGRAM?

Yes you can, there is an evening studio that runs from 6-10pm. This studio is adapted to a working person’s needs and is less intense than the regular studios.

IS THERE FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?

Unfortunately there is no financial aid available through Columbia University.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CULTURE OF THE PROGRAM?

Intro is an intense five week studio that focuses on conceptual design strategies and hand drawing. Each studio has a different critic with a different theme that they explore. The studios move quickly and students are encouraged to immerse themselves in the studio environment. It is likely that students will be in studio at all hours. In addition to studio briefs assigned by critics, Teaching assistants also set up field trips and tutorials for students to round out their experience. These events include a bike tour of architecture in New York City and sessions on photographing work, model making, and drawing basics. Intro to Architecture is a brief taste of studio culture and a great way to figure out if graduate school in architecture is the right next step.

DO I GET TO CHOOSE MY STUDIO CRITIC?

Students are assigned a studio critic and teaching assistant for the duration of the program. These studios are assigned based on previous experience.

DO I NEED A VISA FOR INTRODUCTION TO ARCHITECTURE?

Introduction to Architecture is a 5 week, 3 point course (non-degree and not eligible for full-time student status) and as such, we do not sponsor visas for the program.

Please visit the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs website for more information.

Tourism and Visit (B-2) allows “enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree”.

Details

DO I NEED TO BRING A COMPUTER?

Depending on your experience and studio placement, you may not be using a computer much during Intro. Regardless, there will be computers for your use in the studios with adequate software. These computers are fixed to the desks so if you’d like a computer for personal use at home or around school then please bring your own.