Yale School of Architecture Bulletin of Yale University
 
Introduction
Degrees and Programs
Course Offerings
Admissions and Financial Aid
General Information
Faculty Profiles
Statistics and Lists
 
Admission Requirements
Tuition, Fees, General Expenses
Financial Assistance
International Students

Admission Requirements

General Requirements

The admission process is designed to enroll students of the highest promise while assuring a wide diversity of background and aptitudes within the student body.

Students may enter the School only at the beginning of the fall term each year. All students are expected to attend full-time. There is no part-time or summer program.

Although information about the School of Architecture has been on the World Wide Web since the fall of 1995, applications for the school year 2004-2005 will continue to be by paper submission only.

Notification of admission and of financial aid award, if applicable, is sent no later than April 1. Acceptance of the offer of admission must be received by the School no later than April 15, and must be accompanied by a nonrefundable $500 certified check or money order made payable to Yale University. This deposit will be credited toward tuition. Acceptances may not be deferred.

All applicants, including international students, are required to take the General Test (verbal, quantitative, and analytical) of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Program of the Educational Testing Service. Although the test may be taken at any time, it should be taken no later than the preceding October so that scores will reach the School no later than January 12, 2004. Computer-based testing is available in many areas. Telephone 609.771.7670 for information. The Yale School of Architecture institution code number on the GRE form is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School. Information about times and places of test administration may be obtained directly from the Educational Testing Service, Box 955, Princeton NJ 08540, or Educational Testing Service, 1947 Center Street, Berkeley CA 94704.

International students should see below for further information regarding admission requirements.

Send inquiries to Admissions, Yale School of Architecture, 180 York Street, PO Box 208242, New Haven CT 06520-8242, or telephone 203.432.2296; 203.432.2291 for financial aid information.

Open House

Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the School during our Open House on Thursday, November 6, 2003. The day's program offers opportunities for the applicant to visit classes and design studios, meet informally with faculty and students, tour the University, and attend the School's evening public lecture given by Glenn Murcutt, Bishop Visiting Professor of Architectural Design. Applicants planning to attend the Open House should notify the registrar by October 23, 2003.

If you plan to visit the School, please see the general driving directions to Yale. The location of the School within the University is shown on this map.

Admission Requirements for the M.Arch. I: Three-Year Program

Admission to the program in architecture normally requires the prior possession of a bachelor's degree, or the equivalent, from an accredited college.

The following college-level courses are required as prerequisites to this program:

1. Elementary calculus. A classical physics course is also recommended.

2. A studio course such as freehand drawing, sketching, painting, sculpture, or basic architectural design. (Ceramics, photography, graphics, or film will not satisfy this requirement.)

3. Two courses in the history of art and/or architecture. It is recommended that one course be a survey, the other a course in modern architecture.

Application Procedure for the M.Arch. I: Three-Year Program

All of the following (except items 4 and 5, which are sent by the Educational Testing Service) must be received by the School no later than January 12, 2004, preferably in one all-inclusive mailing. Receipt of applications will not be acknowledged, but applicants will be notified about missing items. Address all material to: Admissions Office, Yale School of Architecture, 180 York Street, PO Box 208242, New Haven ct 06520-8242.

1. An application form supplied by the School at the back of this bulletin; all sections must be completed. If any of the documents required for submission are in a different name, that name should also be listed on the application form.

2. A nonrefundable application fee of $75 payable to Yale University only in the form of certified check or money order. The applicant's U.S. Social Security number, if applicable, should be noted on the check or money order. Money orders may be obtained at local banks or the post office. This fee cannot be credited to tuition or other accounts upon admission. This fee cannot be waived.

3. An official transcript of the academic record for the B.A. or B.S. degree from an accredited college or university, to be accompanied by descriptions of courses taken to meet prerequisites. Additional transcripts are required for all other relevant college-level courses taken by the applicant. Each transcript must be in a sealed and endorsed envelope. If possible, these transcripts should accompany the application packet. An accepted student expecting to graduate in the spring of the application year must submit, after graduation, a final transcript showing the date the degree was earned.

4. Official GRE scores from recently taken General Test of the Graduate Record Examination Program, sent directly by the Educational Testing Service. The Yale School of Architecture institution code number is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School.

5. For international students only: When applicable, acceptable documentation of English proficiency, i.e., official TOEFL scores sent directly by the Educational Testing Service. The Yale School of Architecture institution code number is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School. See International Students, below, for additional information.

6. A portfolio, not to exceed nine by twelve inches and no more than one and one-half inches thick, containing reproductions (no slides, tapes, discs, or videos will be accepted) of creative work done by the applicant, showing drawing skills and three-dimensional aptitude. Oversize portfolios will not be accepted. Conventional notebook binders are preferred. Work represented may include drawings, paintings, sculpture, sketches, furniture and architectural designs, or other materials. Anything submitted that is not entirely the applicant's own work must be clearly identified. To have the portfolio returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped (U.S. postage or provide sufficient funds) envelope large enough to hold the portfolio. At the conclusion of the admission process, the School will discard any portfolios that do not include the self-addressed, stamped envelope.

7. An essay, not to exceed one page, that includes a brief personal history and reasons for applying to this program. The School of Architecture seeks to draw students from all racial and ethnic groups in society. Applicants who wish to identify themselves as members of a minority group should do so in this essay.

8. A curriculum vitae (résumé of academic and employment experience).

9. Three letters of reference in sealed envelopes with signatures across sealed flaps. At least one letter of reference should be from a person with direct knowledge of the applicant's professional potential and academic ability. It is preferable for applicants to use recommendation forms provided at the back of this bulletin. If possible, all letters should be enclosed in the application packet.

Summer Preparation Courses for Incoming M.Arch. I Students

In the three weeks before the beginning of the fall term, the School offers four summer preparation courses for incoming M.Arch. I students. These classes provide an introduction to architectural representation, digital media, using the Arts Library, and working in the Model Shop and are available to all incoming students.

The architectural representation course provides an intensive overview of basic principles and techniques of visual communication of architectural ideas and aims to familiarize students with basic equipment and its use, freehand drawing, media, and basic model building techniques. This course is generally required for incoming students with little or no architectural background, and the Admissions Committee may require particular incoming students to take this course as a precondition of acceptance.

The digital media, Arts Library, and Model Shop courses provide an overview of the School's facilities and are required. The digital media and Model Shop courses may be waived if students can provide evidence of sufficient prior experience.

Advanced Standing

A limited number of students with demonstrated design ability and who have completed an intensive undergraduate architecture major occasionally are accepted with advanced standing to the three-year program. Applicants in this category are evaluated in relation to the quality of work expected at that level in the School. No student may qualify for a degree from the School before completion of a minimum of two years of study in residence and fulfillment of all the three-year course requirements.

Transfer

Transfer students with exceptional promise may be accepted under one of the following special conditions:

1. After completion, in high standing, of at least one year in an accredited graduate program in architecture, a student may receive credit for some or all course work, at the discretion of the Admissions Committee.

2. After completion, in high standing, of the fourth year of an accredited five-year undergraduate program in architecture, a student may be accepted into the M.Arch. I program with the following provisions: a minimum of one year to qualify for the B.Arch. degree (retained by the School solely to accommodate those few students needing it as a prerequisite in order to work for the M.Arch. degree, but conferred only upon successful completion of work for the M.Arch. degree) and a minimum of an additional two years to qualify for the M.Arch. degree.

Intensive Major

Exceptional students in their senior year of Yale College may be admitted, under special circumstances, into the intensive major in architecture, which consists of the first year of the School of Architecture's regular three-year M.Arch. program. Upon receipt of Yale College's B.A. degree and successful completion of the first year in architecture, they are admitted to the second year of the School of Architecture's M.Arch. program. Successful completion, after a minimum of two years, of the remaining program requirements qualifies these students to receive the M.Arch. degree.

Admission Requirements for the M.Arch. II (Post-Professional): Two-Year Program

The prerequisite for admission to this option is a professional degree in architecture, normally a five-year bachelor of architecture (B.Arch.) degree.

Application Procedure for the M.Arch. II (Post-Professional): Two-Year Program

All of the following (except items 4 and 5, which are sent by the Educational Testing Service) must be received by the School no later than January 5, 2004, preferably in one all-inclusive mailing. Receipt of applications will not be acknowledged, but applicants will be notified about missing items. Address all material to: Admissions Office, Yale School of Architecture, 180 York Street, PO Box 208242, New Haven CT 06520-8242.

1. An application form supplied by the School at the back of this bulletin; all sections must be completed. If any of the documents required for submission are in a different name, that name should also be listed on the application form.

2. A nonrefundable application fee of $75 payable to Yale University only in the form of certified check or money order. The applicant's U.S. Social Security number, if applicable, should be noted on the check or money order. Money orders may be obtained at local banks or the post office. This fee cannot be credited to tuition or other accounts upon admission. This fee cannot be waived.

3. An official transcript of the academic record for the B.Arch., or equivalent degree from an accredited college or university. Each transcript must be in a sealed and endorsed envelope. If possible, these transcripts should accompany the application packet. An accepted student expecting to graduate in the spring of the application year must submit, after graduation, a final transcript showing the date the degree was earned.

4. Official GRE scores from recently taken General Test of the Graduate Record Examination Program, sent directly by the Educational Testing Service. The Yale School of Architecture institution code number is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School.

5. For international students only: When applicable, acceptable documentation of English proficiency, i.e., official TOEFL scores sent directly by the Educational Testing Service. The Yale School of Architecture institution code number is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School. See International Students, below, for additional information.

6. A portfolio, not to exceed nine by twelve inches and no more than one and one-half inches thick, containing reproductions (no slides, tapes, discs, or videos will be accepted), to demonstrate the applicant's ability to pursue advanced work in architectural design. Oversize portfolios will not be accepted. Conventional notebook binders are preferred. Anything submitted that is not entirely the applicant's own work must be clearly identified. To have the portfolio returned, please include a self-addressed, stamped (U.S. postage or provide sufficient funds) envelope large enough to hold the portfolio. At the conclusion of the admission process, the School will discard any portfolios that do not include the self-addressed, stamped envelope.

7. An essay, not to exceed one page, that includes a brief personal history and reasons for applying to this program. The School of Architecture seeks to draw students from all racial and ethnic groups in society. Applicants who wish to identify themselves as members of a minority group should do so in this essay.

8. A curriculum vitae (résumé of academic and employment experience).

9. Three letters of reference in sealed envelopes with signatures across the sealed flaps. At least one letter of reference should be from a person with direct knowledge of the applicant's professional potential and academic ability. It is preferable for applicants to use recommendation forms provided at the back of this bulletin. If possible, all letters should be enclosed in the application packet.

Summer Preparation Courses for Incoming M.Arch. II Students

In the week before the beginning of the fall term, the School offers three summer preparation courses for incoming M.Arch. II students. These classes provide an introduction to the digital media, the Arts Library, and Model Shop facilities within the School and are required. The digital media and Model Shop courses may be waived if students can provide evidence of sufficient prior experience.

Admission Requirements for the M.E.D. Program

The M.E.D. program accepts qualified applicants with a degree in architecture, or with an undergraduate or graduate degree in a related discipline, who exhibit a strong capability for independent advanced study in a topic related to architecture and environmental design.

Candidates are selected on the basis of academic and/or professional records and individual study proposals. (See Degree Programs for information regarding submission of study proposals.) Applicants to the M.E.D. program are encouraged to contact the director of the M.E.D. program to arrange an informational interview with faculty in their study topic area, or to submit a draft study proposal before the application deadline.

Application Procedure for the M.E.D. Program

All of the following (except items 4 and 5, which are sent by the Educational Testing Service) must be received by the School no later than January 12, 2004,preferably in one all-inclusive mailing. Receipt of applications will not be acknowledged, but applicants will be notified about missing items. Address all material to: Admissions Office, Yale School of Architecture, 180 York Street, PO Box 208242, New Haven CT 06520-8242.

1. An application form supplied by the School at the back of this bulletin; all sections must be completed. If any of the documents required for submission are in a different name, that name should also be listed on the application form.

2. A nonrefundable application fee of $75 payable to Yale University only in the form of certified check or money order. The applicant's U.S. Social Security number, if applicable, should be noted on the check or money order. Money orders may be obtained at local banks or the post office. This fee cannot be credited to tuition or other accounts upon admission. This fee cannot be waived.

3. Official transcripts of the academic record from accredited colleges and universities enclosed in individual sealed envelopes.

4. Official GRE scores from recently taken General Test of the Graduate Record Examination Program, sent directly by the Educational Testing Service. The Yale School of Architecture institution code number is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School.

5. For international students only: When applicable, acceptable documentation of English proficiency, i.e., official TOEFL scores sent directly by the Educational Testing Service. The Yale School of Architecture institution code number is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School. See below for additional information.

6. A full description of a research proposal including a statement of goals, a proposed study plan, and anticipated results. This description should be as specific as possible. It is the most important submission considered for admission and for assignment of faculty advisers.

7. An essay, not to exceed one page, that includes a brief personal history and reasons for applying to this program. The School of Architecture seeks to draw students from all racial and ethnic groups in society. Applicants who wish to identify themselves as members of a minority group should do so in this essay.

8. A curriculum vitae (résumé of academic and employment experience).

9. Three letters of reference in sealed envelopes with signatures across the sealed flaps. At least one letter of reference should be from a person with direct knowledge of the applicant's professional potential and academic ability. It is preferable for applicants to use recommendation forms provided at the back of this bulletin. If possible, all letters should be enclosed in the application packet.

10. Examples of previous work that indicate the candidate's capability in the proposed study topic, such as design studies and/or written reports.

Suggestions for Submitting a Proposed Study Plan

Preparation of the proposed study plan is an important part of the application process. As a guide to applicants, the following should be included in the proposed study plan:

1. Define a specific topic area and the goal of the study plan. List the prior work, publications, or other key references that provide the background or basis of study in the topic.

2. Define the key questions that might be answered or the important issues that would be addressed by the study. Describe proposed study methods and expected results.

3. List the Yale courses that will support the study. Include a tentative schedule or plan of study over the four terms.

4. Describe prior work relevant to the proposed topic, as well as career expectations in undertaking the study. Include examples of written papers, reports, and other documentation that illustrate a capability to carry out the proposed study.

Applicants are invited to submit a draft of the study plan to the M.E.D. program chair well in advance of the application deadline, in order to receive comments on it prior to the final application.

Summer Preparation Courses for Incoming M.E.D. Students

In the week before the beginning of the fall term, the School offers two summer preparation courses for incoming M.E.D. students. These classes provide an introduction to the digital media and Arts Library facilities within the School and are required. The digital media course may be waived if students can provide evidence of sufficient prior experience.

 

Tuition, Fees, and General Expenses

Tuition

The tuition fee for the academic year 2003-2004 is $27,440. This fee includes health care services under the Yale Health Plan, but does not include the hospitalization insurance fee. The Corporation of Yale University reserves the right to revise tuition rates as necessary.

Fees

An annual fee of $660 is charged to the Student Financial Services bill for use of the School of Architecture's Model Shop, darkroom, computers, printers, and other equipment furnished by the School. This mandatory fee applies to all students and is refundable only upon withdrawal from the School, according to the tuition rebate and refund policy itemized below.

General Expenses

Housing

The Graduate Housing Office has dormitory and apartment units for a small number of graduate and professional students. Approximate rates for 2003-2004 are: dormitory (single) housing, $4,228-4,438 per academic year; apartments (single and family housing), $620-890 per month. Applications for graduate dormitory housing are accepted online only, beginning April 1 at http://www.yale.edu/graduatehousing/. The assignment process generally starts in mid- to late April after current returning residents are offered renewals.

The Graduate Housing Office consists of two separate offices: the Graduate Dormitory Office and the Graduate Apartment Office, both located within Helen Hadley Hall, a graduate dormitory, at 420 Temple Street. Office hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For facility descriptions, floor plans, and rates, visit the Graduate Housing Web site at http://www.yale.edu/graduatehousing/. For further information on graduate dormitories, contact Beverly Whitney at 203.432.2167, fax 203.432.4578, or beverly.whitney@yale.edu. For graduate apartment information, contact Betsy Rosenthal at 203.432.8270, fax 203.432.0177, or betsy.rosenthal@yale.edu.

The University's Off-Campus Housing service, limited to current or incoming members of the Yale community, is located at 155 Whitney Avenue, 3rd floor, and is open from 8.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The listings may also be accessed from any computer at Yale through the intranet at http://www.yale.edu/offcampushousing/. Call 203.432.9756 to obtain the necessary passwords to access the system from other areas.

Food Service

Yale University Dining Services has tailored its services to meet the particular concerns of graduate and professional school students by offering meal plan options. "Eli Bucks," a favorite choice based on declining points, are accepted in all campus locations in lieu of cash. Whether residents or nonresidents of University housing, students are invited to take advantage of Yale University Dining Services.

The following dining areas and snack bars are available to students: A&A Penthouse at the School of Architecture; the Divinity School Cafe on Prospect Street; the dining room of the Kline Biology Tower; Donaldson Commons at the School of Management; and Durfee's, a traditional convenience store offering coffee, snacks, sandwiches, soft yogurt, and a variety of convenience items. Students are also encouraged to dine in any of Yale's residential college dining rooms, where students without meal contracts may purchase "all-you-care-to-eat" meals at fixed prices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Payment for these meals can be arranged by securing a Yale charge account from the Office of Student Financial Services at 246 Church Street.

Inquiries concerning food services should be addressed to Yale University Dining Services, 246 Church Street, PO Box 208261, New Haven ct 06520-8261; telephone 1.888.678.9837 (toll free), or 203.432.0420. Dining Services can also be found on the Web at http://www.yale.edu/dining/.

Total Expenses

For a single student living off campus in the 2003-2004 academic year, a reasonable, albeit modest, estimate of total cost may be estimated by the following costs to be $41,228:

Tuition $27,440  
Fees 660  
Yale Health Plan Hospitalization/Specialty Coverage 888*
Room and Board 9,190  
Books/Personal Expenses 3,050  

* Students may receive a waiver of the $888 hospitalization fee from the Yale Health Plan upon evidence that they have valid and sufficient alternative hospitalization coverage. Further information regarding health services can be found under Life at Yale.

Student Accounts and Bills

Student accounts, billing, and related services are administered through the Office of Student Financial Services, which is located at 246 Church Street. The telephone number is 203.432.2700.

Yale Charge Account

Students who sign and return a Yale Charge Card Account Authorization form will be able to charge designated optional items and services to their student accounts. Students who want to charge toll calls made through the University's telephone system to their accounts must sign and return this Charge Card Account Authorization. The University may withdraw this privilege from students who do not pay their monthly bills on a timely basis. For more information, contact the Office of Student Financial Services at 246 Church Street, PO Box 208232, New Haven ct 06520-8232; telephone, 203.432.2700; fax, 203.432.7557; e-mail, sfs@yale.edu.

Yale Payment Plan

The Yale Payment Plan is a payment service that allows students and their families to pay tuition, room, and board in eleven or twelve equal monthly installments throughout the year based on individual family budget requirements. It is administered for the University by Academic Management Services (AMS). To enroll by telephone, call 800.635.0120. The fee to cover administration of the plan is $50. The deadline for enrollment is June 20. Application forms will be mailed to all students. For additional information, please contact AMS at the number above or visit their Web site at http://www.tuitionpay.com/.

Bills

A student may not register for any term unless all bills due for that and for any prior term are paid in full.

Bills for tuition, room, and board are mailed to the student during the first week of July, due and payable by August 1 for the fall term; and during the first week of November, due and payable by December 1 for the spring term. The Office of Student Financial Services will impose a late charge if any part of the term bill, less Yale-administered loans and scholarships that have been applied for on a timely basis, is not paid when due. The late charge will be imposed as follows:

  If fall-term payment in full is not received   Late charge
       
  by August 1   $110
  by September 1 an additional    110
  by October 1 an additional    110
       
  If spring-term payment in full is not received   Late charge
       
  by December 1   $110
  by January 2 an additional    110
  by February 1 an additional    110

Nonpayment of bills and failure to complete and submit financial aid application packages on a timely basis may result in the student's involuntary withdrawal from the University.

No degrees will be conferred and no transcripts will be furnished until all bills due the University are paid in full. In addition, transcripts will not be furnished to any student or former student who is in default on the payment of a student loan.

Charge for Returned Checks

A processing charge of $20 will be assessed for checks returned for any reason by the bank on which they were drawn. In addition, the following penalties may apply if a check is returned:

1. If the check was in payment of a term bill, a $110 late fee will be charged for the period the bill was unpaid.

2. If the check was in payment of a term bill to permit registration, the student's registration may be revoked.

3. If the check was given in payment of an unpaid balance in order to receive a diploma, the University may refer the account to an attorney for collection.

Tuition Rebates and Refund Policy

As a consequence of changes in federal regulations governing the return of federal student aid (Title IV) funds for withdrawn students, the tuition rebate and refund policy has changed from that of recent years. The following rules became effective on July 1, 2000.

1. For purposes of determining the refund of federal student aid funds, any student who withdraws from the School of Architecture for any reason during the first 60 percent of the term will be subject to a pro rata schedule, which will be used to determine the amount of Title IV funds a student has earned at the time of withdrawal. A student who withdraws after the 60 percent point has earned 100 percent of the Title IV funds. In 2003-2004, the last days for refunding federal student aid funds are November 3 in the fall term, and April 26 for first-year M.Arch. I students and March 28 for all other students in the spring term.

2. For purposes of determining the refund of institutional aid funds and for students who have not received financial aid:

a. 100 percent of tuition (excluding the nonrefundable $500 deposit for first-time students) will be rebated for withdrawals that occur on or before the end of the first 10 percent of the term. In 2003-2004, the last days for rebate are September 12 in the fall term, and January 26 for first-year M.Arch. I students and January 21 for all other students in the spring term.

b. A rebate of one-half (50 percent) of tuition (excluding the nonrefundable $500 deposit for first-time students) will be granted for withdrawals that occur after the first 10 percent but on or before the last day of the first quarter of the term. In 2003-2004, the last days for rebate are September 28 in the fall term, and February 18 for first-year M.Arch. I students and February 5 for all other students in the spring term.

c. A rebate of one-quarter (25 percent) of tuition (excluding the nonrefundable $500 deposit for first-time students) will be granted for withdrawals that occur after the first quarter of a term but on or before the day of midterm. In 2003-2004, the last days for rebate are October 24 in the fall term, and April 11 for first-year M.Arch. I students and March 2 for all other students in the spring term.

d. Students who withdraw for any reason after midterm will not receive a rebate of any portion of tuition.

3. The death of a student shall cancel charges for tuition as of the date of death, and the Bursar will adjust the tuition on a pro rata basis.

4. If the student has received student loans or other forms of financial aid, rebates will be refunded in the order prescribed by federal regulations; namely, first to the Unsubsidized Federal Stafford and/or Subsidized Federal Stafford loans, if any; then to Federal Perkins loan; next to any other federal, state, private, or institutional scholarships and loans; and, finally, any remaining balance to the student.

5. Loan recipients (Stafford, Perkins, or Yale Student Loan) who withdraw are required to have an exit interview before leaving Yale. Student Financial Services will mail information about completing the exit interview.

 

Financial Assistance

Admission to the School of Architecture is determined without regard to a student's ability to pay the full cost of his or her education. Although funding is limited, the School's financial aid policies are designed to maximize the financial assistance to all students with demonstrated need, as determined by the Financial Aid Office.

Financial Aid for U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents

Students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents are required to complete two financial aid applications: (1) the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and (2) the Need Access application. Students must complete the FAFSA online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. The Yale School of Architecture's FAFSA code number is 001426. The Need Access application must also be completed online at http://www.accessgroup.org/apply/. The parental and spousal sections of the Need Access application must be completed in order to be considered for need-based scholarship assistance from the School of Architecture.

The deadline for completing the FAFSA and Need Access applications is February 1, 2004. Estimated income may be used to complete these applications in order to meet the February 1 deadline. Because scholarship money and some loan funds are limited, students who miss this deadline may jeopardize their eligibility for financial aid. Students who correctly complete their applications in a timely manner can expect to receive a financial aid determination with an offer of admission.

The first portion of a student's need will be met with a Federal Stafford Loan (subsidized and/or unsubsidized) and perhaps a Federal Perkins Loan. Federal Stafford Loans have a variable interest rate, not to exceed 8.25 percent. The lender will reduce the amount of the loan by a federal origination fee of 3 percent and a guaranty fee of up to 1 percent. If a student elects to have Yale as the Stafford Loan lender, there is no loan fee. Students with demonstrated need may borrow up to $8,500 through subsidized Federal Stafford Loans and up to an additional $10,000 through unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans. The federal government will pay interest on the subsidized loan while the student is in school and for six months after the student leaves school. The student bears the responsibility for interest on an unsubsidized loan, which may be paid as it accrues or deferred until graduation.

Federal Perkins Loans have a fixed interest rate of 5 percent and the interest does not accrue until after a six- to nine-month grace period has elapsed. Because funding for the Federal Perkins Loan is extremely limited, Yale University requires the student to borrow the maximum subsidized Federal Stafford Loan ($8,500) before a Federal Perkins Loan can be awarded.

Students with demonstrated need beyond what can be obtained through the Federal Stafford Loan and Federal Perkins Loan may be awarded a need-based scholarship from the School of Architecture. Students are required to reapply for financial aid each spring. Barring any significant changes in a student's financial circumstances (including parental information), students can generally expect their need-based scholarship awards to be renewed in subsequent years. However, scholarship awards continue only through the normal length of time required to complete the program of study to which the student was admitted.

After admission to the Yale School of Architecture, students are required to complete the verification process, which includes submission of the parents', student's, and spouse's federal tax returns, a School of Architecture Financial Aid Application (normally mailed to the student in May), and a Federal Verification Form. In addition, matriculating students who applied for a Federal Stafford Loan (subsidized and/or unsubsidized) will be required to have an online Entrance Interview before any loan proceeds can be disbursed. The School reserves the right to adjust a student's financial aid award if the actual income or asset information of the parent, student, or spouse is different from the original information estimated on the financial aid application(s). In addition, all awards are contingent on the student meeting the general eligibility requirements specified by the U.S. Department of Education, including satisfactory academic progress requirements. Applicants in default on a student loan will not be eligible for any financial aid until the default status has been cleared and documentation provided to the Financial Aid Office.

Financial Aid for International Students

See below for financial aid information for international students.

Additional Sources of Funding

All students are encouraged to aggressively seek additional funding beyond what is available from the School of Architecture. One of the most helpful Web sites to search for third-party scholarships is http://www.finaid.org/. However, it is important to be aware that financial aid scholarship fraud has proliferated in recent years; this issue is discussed on the Federal Trade Commission’s Web site, http://www.ftc.gov/.

Students must advise the Financial Aid Office of all additional awards received (scholarships, grants, loans, teaching assistantships, teaching fellowships, etc.) in order to comply with federal regulations as well as University policy. As a general rule, gift assistance up to $5,000 can be received without affecting the student’s need-based scholarship from the School of Architecture, although it may be necessary to reduce the student’s loan(s). Outside assistance in excess of $5,000 will affect a student’s need-based scholarship from the School of Architecture.

Other Loan Programs

Some state and private supplemental loan programs offer funds to students who require loan assistance in excess of the annual borrowing limits for the Federal Stafford and Federal Perkins programs, or who are not eligible for either of these programs. The interest rate is generally tied to the prime or base rate and a standard commercial credit analysis is usually required. Two such programs are the Yale Education Loan and the Connecticut Family Education Loan Program (CT-FELP).

The Yale Education Loan, a private loan program, is offered through the Access Group, Inc. (a nonprofit corporation). More information is available from the Access Group at 800.282.1550. An electronic application may be completed at Access Group's Web site, http://www.accessgroup.org/apply/.

CT-FELP (Connecticut Family Education Loan Program) is offered by the Connecticut Higher Education Supplemental Loan Authority. Applications and more information are available by calling 800.252.FELP or 860.561.2180.

Financial Aid and Grades

All students receiving any form of financial aid from the School of Architecture and the University (Federal Stafford Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, School of Architecture work-study jobs, scholarships) must maintain a satisfactory grade level in all courses and studio work. If a student does not obtain a satisfactory grade level, the appropriate portion of loans and scholarships within the term will be canceled and no further aid will be allocated until there is proof of improvement and/or completion of course and/or studio work.

Additional Information

Students who have additional questions regarding financial aid should contact the Financial Aid Office, Yale School of Architecture, PO Box 208242, New Haven CT 06520-8242, telephone 203.432.2291.

Benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs

Eligible students are strongly encouraged to seek specific information about GI Bill Education benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs at 888.442.4551 or http://www.gibill.va.gov/. The Registrar's Office will be happy to assist students with claims once they are enrolled.

Teaching and Research Opportunities

The School offers teaching fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships. Students appointed as teaching fellows and assistants learn to teach by helping faculty in their graduate and undergraduate courses. Research assistants aid faculty in their research. The Teaching Fellowship Program offers stipends (fixed payments); the Teaching Assistantship and Research Assistantship programs offer financial support to students according to the level of teaching or research involvement, and the nature of the course or research in which the student is assisting.

Fellowships and assistantships are one-term appointments made by the Dean's Office at the request of the faculty. These appointments are usually made at the end of a term for the following term.

It is not necessary to qualify for financial aid in order to hold any of these appointments, although the earnings from these appointments will be incorporated into financial aid awards.

In addition, several departments in Yale College, including History of Art and several foreign languages, often offer teaching fellowships to students in the School who may have an appropriate expertise.

Student Employment Within the School

The School of Architecture offers students job opportunities within the School that cover a wide variety of needs. Current positions include woodshop or computer monitors, receptionists, exhibition installers, archivists, clerical workers, and Urban Design Workshop employees. Pay for 2003-2004 ranges from $9.00 to $12.50 per hour, depending on the level of skill and responsibility required for a particular position. It is not necessary to qualify for financial aid in order to hold any of the positions, although the earnings from these positions will be incorporated into financial aid awards.

Student Employment Within the University

The Student Employment Office, 246 Church Street, is maintained to give assistance to self-supporting students in obtaining employment outside of the School but within the University during termtime. Student job listings at Yale can be found online at http://www.yale.edu/seo.

Job Opportunities Outside the University

The School is often advised of various job opportunities outside the University that may interest architectural students, like drafting, small architectural jobs, etc. These opportunities are posted for the convenience of students who may be seeking outside work.

 

International Students

Admission Requirements for International Students
All international students are required to take the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Program (see Admission Requirements). Those applicants whose native language is not English and who previously have studied in an English-speaking country are strongly urged to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) to demonstrate their fluency in English. Arrangements may be made with the Educational Testing Service at Box 955, Princeton nj 08540. All other applicants whose native language is other than English are required to take this test. TOEFL is administered throughout the world. The test must be taken prior to November 1, 2003 to assure results reaching the School by the January deadline. (Candidates for admission generally achieve a composite TOEFL score of at least 600 for the paper-based test or 250 for the computer-based test.) The Yale School of Architecture institution code number is 3985. Please note that this is different from other Yale University code numbers. Unless 3985 is used on the test form, scores may not reach the School.

Any transcripts, letters of reference, or other application material written in a language other than English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

In order to receive visa documentation, international students must submit proof that income from all sources will be sufficient to meet expenses for that year of study. Each student accepting admission to the School must submit an International Student Certification of Finances form. This form, available from the Registrar's Office or accessible on our Web site (http://www.architecture.yale.edu/), is due April 15 with acceptance of the admission offer. It must be completed and signed by the parents (and spouse, if applicable) of an international applicant, and must include all bank and tax information.

See above for further admission requirements.

Language Skills

All course work at the School is conducted in English. Enrolled students who have difficulties with the English language, whether written or spoken, may be required to take extra courses in its use before they are promoted within their program. Financial aid for such English language courses is not available. Students requiring such courses are responsible for any added tuition cost(s).

Financial Aid for International Students

All international students are expected to pay for a minimum of 60 percent of the total cost of their education (tuition, fees, room, board, books, supplies, personal and travel expenses, hospitalization, etc.) from their own resources, such as personal assets, income, and/or loans. Depending on available funding to the School and based on demonstrated need (taking into account the resources of the student, parents, and spouse), the School may award scholarship for some portion of the remaining 40 percent of total cost of education.

International students wishing to apply for need-based scholarship are required to complete two financial aid applications: (1) the International Student Financial Aid Application and (2) the International Student Certification of Finances. These forms may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office, or a printable copy is available online at (http://www.architecture.yale.edu/). In all cases, the parental and spousal sections of the International Student Financial Aid Application must be completed.

The deadline for completing the International Student Financial Aid Application and the International Student Certification of Finances is February 1, 2004. Students who miss this deadline may jeopardize their eligibility for need-based scholarship. Students who complete their applications in a timely manner can expect to receive notice of a scholarship determination with an offer of admission.

After admission to the Yale School of Architecture, students are required to complete the verification process, which includes submission (translated into English) of the student's, parents', and spouse's foreign tax returns or alternative documentation of income (e.g., statements from the student's, spouse's, and parents' employers). The School reserves the right to adjust a student's scholarship award if the actual income or asset information of the student, parent, or spouse is different from the original information estimated on the financial aid application(s).

Students are required to reapply for need-based scholarship each spring. Barring any significant changes in a student's financial circumstances (including parental and spousal information), students can generally expect their scholarship awards to be renewed in subsequent years. However, scholarship awards continue only through the normal length of time required to complete the program of study to which the student was admitted.

While the School does not provide any loans to international students, the Financial Aid Office can advise students about loan programs available to international students from sources outside of the University. Most loans that are available to international students within the United States, however, require a credit-worthy co-borrower who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

See above for additional information regarding sources of funding.

Office of International Students and Scholars

The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) coordinates services and support to Yale's international students, faculty, staff, and their dependents. OISS assists members of the Yale international community with all matters of special concern to them and serves as a source of referral to other university offices and departments. OISS staff can provide assistance with employment, immigration, personal and cultural adjustment, and family and financial matters, as well as serve as a source of general information about living at Yale and in New Haven. In addition, as Yale University's representative for immigration concerns, OISS provides information and assistance to students, staff, and faculty on how to obtain and maintain legal status in the United States. OISS issues the visa documents needed to request entry into the United States under Yale's immigration sponsorship and processes requests for extensions of authorized periods of stay in the United States, school transfers, and employment authorization. All international students and scholars must register with OISS as soon as they arrive at Yale, at which time OISS will provide information about orientation activities for newly arrived students, scholars, and family members. OISS programs, like the monthly international coffee hours, English conversation programs, and orientation receptions for newly arrived graduate students and postdocs, provide an opportunity to meet members of Yale's international community and become acquainted with the many resources of Yale University and New Haven.

OISS maintains an extensive Web site (http://www.oiss.yale.edu/) with useful information for students and scholars prior to and upon arrival in New Haven. As U.S. immigration regulations are complex and change rather frequently, we urge international students and scholars to visit the office and check the Web site for the most recent updates. International graduate students, postdocs, and visiting scholars can get connected with OISS by subscribing to one or both of the OISS e-mail lists. OISS-L is the electronic newsletter with important information for Yale's international community. YaleInternational E-Group is an interactive list through which over 1,000 international students and scholars keep each other informed about events in the area. Check the Web site for more information. To subscribe to either list, send a message to oiss@yale.edu.

Spouses and partners of international students and scholars will want to know about ISPY-- International Spouses and Partners at Yale. Information about ISPY and other OISS programs can be found on the OISS Web site.

The Office of International Students and Scholars, located at 246 Church Street, Suite 201, is open Monday through Friday from 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The International Center

Established in 1949, the International Center of New Haven is a nonprofit community-based organization. The Center's programs are based on the idea that both the international community in Greater New Haven and the local community can benefit from each other. The Center is located at 442 Temple Street, and the office is open from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The work of the International Center is carried out by a small professional staff and by many volunteers in the community. The Center organizes lectures, trips, picnics, and special events, as well as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, in addition to a number of programs including the International Host Friendship Program, 'Round The World Women, and the International Classroom Project. The International House, a large Tudor mansion located at 406 Prospect Street in New Haven, is the venue of most of the International Center's activities and the home of sixteen students and scholars. Rooms are available for the academic year and summer. For more information on any of these programs, or on International House, telephone 203.432.6460, fax 203.432.6462, e-mail international.centernh@yale.edu, or visit the Web site at http://www.internationalcenternewhaven.org/.

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