The admission categories, requirements, and procedures of the University of Waterloo are outlined in detail in the Admissions section of this Calendar.
Course Requirements for Applicants
For up-to-date and detailed information of course requirements, see the School of Architecture Future Undergraduate Students web page.
The Admissions Process
Students wishing to apply to the School of Architecture will be initially screened on the basis of grades received in their required courses. By this process, approximately 450 students will be further considered for admission to the School of Architecture. These students are required to participate in an interview as part of the admissions process. In addition, a test in the form of an English précis will be required of applicants on the day of their scheduled interview. A portfolio of creative work must be presented at the time of the interview. Admission to the School depends equally on success in the précis test and the results of the interview. An Admissions Information Form is required.
With the high number of applications, students will normally need an overall average of 80%, a grade of at least 75% (usually 80%) in English, and at least low 70s in physics and the two required mathematics courses to be considered for an interview. If offered admission, a final grade of at least 70% (but 75% in English) in each required course is needed to maintain an offer of admission. It is recommended that students take art, history, and other creative courses. The admission requirements from other provinces and countries is available.
More information on the process, and portfolio requirements may be found on the School of Architecture website.
Accessing Incoming Transfer Credits
Generally transfer credit can be given for courses completed at accredited post-secondary institutions in which a grade of 70% or better was obtained. Students transferring from other institutions may have their transferred courses count toward the University of Waterloo degree as determined by the undergraduate officer. Grades obtained in these courses will not be included in the calculation of the student's average. Transfer credit may be given towards elective course requirements, as well as, core courses for which a precise matching of content can be proven.
Incoming students wishing to receive credit for previous courses should contact the undergraduate officer to have their transcripts and course outlines reviewed. The actual assessment and agreement to transfer credits will only be completed for students who have been accepted into the program.
Students transferring from faculties within the University, or former University of Waterloo students returning after an absence, may transfer previous University of Waterloo courses with 60% or better to fulfil Honours Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) program requirements, whether core or elective. Generally, the grades from these courses are not included in the cumulative average.
Advanced Standing Applicants
Students wishing to apply for Advanced Standing, (e.g., those having partially completed a professional degree in architecture at another institution), must apply in writing to the undergraduate officer to initiate the process. The School of Architecture at the University of Waterloo will need copies of official transcripts and course outlines (fully translated), and samples of work to initiate the process. Transfer credits will only be assessed if an offer of admission is made. The applicant may be invited for an interview. Advanced Standing applicants must also write the English précis test. Acceptances will depend on the quality of the applicants, as well as, space available.