Admissions
We design, build and plan for amazing futures—including yours.

Undergraduate Admissions
If you’re ready to start an exciting and engaging educational journey that leads to careers in architecture, real estate and the built environment, you’re in the right place. Prospective students apply to the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, indicating their intended major on the application. Our admissions process evaluates a range of academic and personal factors to ensure a dynamic student body. Below are the general requirements for all undergraduate programs, followed by specific details for each degree.
Questions? View the full undergraduate admissions FAQ or contact MAPP Admissions.
General Requirements:
- Application Process: All applicants must apply via the undergraduate admissions website and meet the university’s requirements for admission. We encourage applicants to apply before the November 1 deadline.
- Holistic Review: Applications are evaluated holistically, with consideration of academic achievements, extracurricular activities and personal qualities.
- Transfer Students: Pre-Transfer Advising services are available to help prospective transfer students assess their readiness and estimate their time to degree completion. Transfer credits are evaluated after admission.
Application Deadlines:
- Fall Application Deadlines:
- U.S. and International Freshmen: Early Action: November 1, Regular Deadline: January 20
- U.S. and International Transfer: Early Action: March 1, Regular Deadline: June 1
- Spring Application Deadlines:
- U.S. Freshmen: Early Action: December 1
- International Freshmen & Transfer: Early Action & Regular Deadline: August 1
- U.S. Transfer: Early Action: August 1, Regular Deadline: November 15
For more detailed information, please visit the individual program pages or contact the respective program coordinators. We encourage all applicants to apply by the early action deadline for the best consideration.
Program-Specific Details:
- Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Science in Architecture:
- All students should select “Architecture B.A.” as their intended major.
- No portfolio required for freshman applicants.
- High school preparation should include advanced math, physics, and art classes.
- Students have the option to apply for the competitive Bachelor of Science before their junior year during their first studio. Degree Placement Review determines placement. Learn more on the degree page.
- Bachelor of Arts in Real Estate and the Built Environment:
- Applicants should indicate "Real Estate & the Built Environment (REBE)" as their intended major.
- Offers a combined degree program to accelerate the path to a Master's in Real Estate Development. Students are eligible to apply for the combined degree program in their junior year.

Graduate Admissions
Welcome to the University of Maryland's Graduate Programs in the School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation! We offer professional graduate degrees in architecture, community planning, historic preservation and real estate development and a Ph.D. in urban design and planning. Our admissions process is designed to select candidates who are prepared for advanced study and have demonstrated academic excellence. All applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
General Requirements:
While each program may have specific prerequisites, deadlines, and additional requirements, the following general requirements apply to all graduate programs:
- Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of $75 is required for each program.
Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts must be attached to the application. Official transcripts are required upon admission. - Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required, assessing the applicant’s potential for success.
- Statement of Purpose: A 1000-2000 word statement outlining goals, research interests, and fit with the program.
- Resume: An up-to-date resume must be submitted.
- International Applicants: Additional documents are required. Check the Graduate School International Admissions page for details.
For more detailed admissions criteria for each specific program, visit the degree pages listed below: