1) yes

2) intelligence, drive, and a reason for studying architecture.  portfolio requirements vary by program

3) yes and yes.  just hit the schools median GRE/GPA, and get some good recommendations which speak to your work ethic and aptitude. 

4) no

my 2c: architecture is ~10%, at most, "design" like you describe (sketching, handcrafts, photography) and 90% marketing, document production, project management, and dealing with clients.  just realize, going in, that you probably wont do high-level design work at the beginning of your career

Thanks a lot for your reply! :)

Any other advice on this? :)

Try looking at a wider variety of schools? Ones that don't rank as high on certain arbitrary scales... There are so many good schools out there and you may personally even do better in those programs. I dont know though, cause it may be different if you are an international student and want to practice in a different country. Maybe name/ranking of schools matter more? It's all about how you present yourself to the school through your portfolio/statement/recommendations. Also get someone who really knows you to write you a recommendation. A good unique and thoughtful rec. is a lot better then a generic one from someone who you may see as more relevant. 

Thanks for your reply! Could you suggest schools I can look into?

Cheers!