Then you can't have a specific answer! ;)

Actually, I can't help you, but I empathize with the weight of the decision.

This is what we call  a quality problem.  Enjoy the luxury of choosing between desirable, competing alternatives.

As will all decisions, first determine the criteria by which you will make the decisions.  For selecting an architecture program, what is most important - i.e., location, cost, facilities, faculty, reputation, cost, study abroad.  Once you determine the criteria and rate each program against the criteria, a decision will be evident.

Do NOT compare program A against program B.

Best

Dr. Architecture.

Go with the one that offers you more money or better TA/RA position. Seriously, if you're in a position to make them compete for you, you'd be a fool not to do so.

Having said that, also think about how you want to spend your time. If you like grids and basswood, go with IIT. If you like shapes and plastics, go with UIC. I don't know what the dominant modes at the other ones are, but chose what you like most, not just what you know best. Failing that, pick for faculty, but keep in mind that faculty changes all the time, and that they are typically allotted specific groups of students through 'lotteries' meaning there's a chance you may actually never get to study under that one prof you really like.

@ J.I - M.Ark: Congrats. m in IIT  too for Fall 2012 AP. Being an intl applicant, dint get a chance to visit the campus yet. I have a College Senior studying there so basically got some really helpful information -  had read similar stuff as to IIT being in some 'shady area' of town and all.. As for your dilema, all i can say is that if cost isnt an issue, consider NY seriously. Have my former undergrad classmate in Columbia and a senior in pratt and they seem to be pretty satisfied with the courses. 

@Dr. Architecture: Being a lil more specific in for my case, I am facing a situation to decide between IIT and UIUC for M.Arch.  Cost of education would be almost the same being an Int'l student. However, I am really interested if you could shed some light on how to best decide between the two. (cost of living/ exposure/ placements & internships/ core program). I am more inclined towards design and if I get a chance would also like to get involved in research work.

Are you deciding between UIC (University of Illinois at Chicago) and IIT or UIUC (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign) and IIT?

Your first email suggested UIC, but your more recent one references UIUC.

As I stated before - what is MOST important to you? design, cost, others that you listed?

Hello Dr. Architecture! Its my friend here  J.I M.Ark who's admitted University of Illinois at Chicago. I apologize for the confusion.

I am Starkitect, trying to decide between University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign and IIT, Chicago. I am considering the following factors mainly for comparison - Design Focus/ core program/ exposure/ placements & internships and  cost of living. I will not be able to make campus visit to the schools, to get a feel of the place and interact with teachers and faculty.

My main focus as I said earlier too, is to get into a comprehensive program, with emphasis on architectural design. Also, in between semester breaks I would like to intern at a firm. In that case would Chicago be a better option. Also, I have heard that UIUC has better final placements and an overall program.

Considering the programs are equally good, based on exposure i will get and internships which one would be a better choice for an int'l applicant like me?

Starkitect - Both IIT and UIUC have excellent architecture programs; to best determine if both meet your desires as listed above, I suggest you be in touch directly with the schools.  Contact the program administration to have a discussion about their program; ask for connections to current students or recent alums to learn details of the program.

In making your selection, do not rely on the opinion of a single person, but connect with those that can provide you with insight for your decision.

Best.

@Dr. Architecture: Thank you! Will be gettting in touch with administrative coordinators,student committees, etc. at both places to get more insights and make a more informed decision.

mark mark