Starting this thread for Master in Landscape Architecture-MLA, Master of Architecture in Urban Design-MAUD, MSAUD, MUD, MLAUD, Masters in City and Regional Planning- MRP, MCP, Master in Urban Planning-MUP and Master in Design Studies-MDES, and other programs like Sustainable and Environmental Planning, etc.
As there is no separate thread or forum for discussion for these applicants and hope it will be helpful. Also, the M.Arch thread is inundated with a lot of applicants. :)
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
Program Applying for with Path/Track
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
Letter of Recommendations
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Portfolio
Schools
Open house Impressions
Results
Tips/Suggestions
O.Owl
Mar 3, 21 1:07 pm
Hi everyone, I got admitted by MCP in Upenn, it is very expensive without a scholarship. Does anyone have thoughts on how to get the investment back after graduation? I'm still interested in design so I'll probably go to the private consulting firm, but I have my options open. Thx!
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
MLA - Ball State University, BA- environmental design
Program Applying for with Path/Track
MCP - Urban Design / MAUD / MLAUD
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
3.68 / 3.28, GRE-waived, Duolingo - 125
Letter of Recommendations
4 from previous professors, two are the department heads
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Wrote about helping the vulnerable communities ( I wrote again and figured they are more related to UP than UD, I should probably focus more on design for the UD programs)
Portfolio
3 project with work samples, spend 6 months to prepare, didn't reuse school work
Schools
UCB - MUP
GSAPP - MAUD
GSD - MLAUD
UPenn - MCP
Open house Impressions
Results
UCB - reject
GSD - reject
Upenn - Got in, waiting for financial package
GSAPP - N/A
Tips/Suggestions
crb1234
Mar 4, 21 4:50 am
Hey Congratulations on Upenn, when did you received the admit. I received an email informing me that the decisions will be released on 11th March. I applied for MLA, I am an international applicant. I also haven't heard anything from UCB as well :(
praditisingh
Mar 4, 21 9:57 am
I received the same response. Its kept me anxious. I applied for MCP
crb1234
Mar 4, 21 10:15 am
Seems like decisions are yet to be made for International applicants... fingers crossed
O.Owl
Mar 4, 21 10:50 am
I received the early notice in email on
Feb 23rd, I know there were some people got it even earlier. I’ll say they are in the process of making decisions, good luck!
O.Owl
Mar 12, 21 5:43 pm
Update, GSAPP - in
crb1234
Mar 12, 21 11:44 pm
Me to...In at GSAPP MSAUD See you at the open house :)
O.Owl
Mar 13, 21 11:56 am
Congrats! I’m still trying to make my decision between MCP in UPenn and MAUD in GASPP...
michael88
Mar 13, 21 12:18 pm
In the same boat deciding between Penn and GSAPP. What are you leaning towards?
O.Owl
Mar 15, 21 11:35 am
I know Penn Design has a great reputation, but maybe GSAPP because of the location... How about you?
michael88
Mar 18, 21 1:13 am
Still deciding... can I drop you a mail? So that we could discuss pointers?
O.Owl
Mar 18, 21 11:03 am
Sure!
chen233
Mar 3, 21 8:03 pm
Glad to see someone starting a thread for MLA/MUD/MUP this year!
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
Environmental Design, UBC SALA/Canada/2019
Program Applying for with Path/Track
MLA, M.Des and M.Arch
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
83/100 - Waived - Waived
Letter of Recommendations
3 from previous professors, 2 from current employer (1 principal, 1 supervisor)
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Tailored each essay to the school I'm applying for, wrote about my observations and understanding of landscape architecture/architecture through the lens of a queer person & the questions that I started to ask myself while practicing in a landscape office. Wrote about specific interests for each school (including faculty members, course offered, etc)
Portfolio
2 undergraduate studio projects, 1 group installation, 1 duo exhibition (online), 1 group competition, 1 personal project, and 1 duo competition
Schools
UCB - MLA II
GSD - MLA I
GSD - MDes
Princeton - MArch I
MIT - MArch I
Open house Impressions:
Didn't attend most of them due to conflict with schedule
Results
UCB - waiting
GSD - Waitlisted for MLA I, rejected for M.Des
Princeton - waiting
MIT - Accepted with $$$
Tips/Suggestions
- Dedicate a certain amount of time each day (doesn't have to be a lot of time) to work on it and start early! Many people have reiterated on this but I can't stress enough the importance of starting early - you'll be surprised how much you can do if start early and just chip the application away each day.
- Ask for references at least 12 weeks prior to your deadlines. Most of my references didn't get to the letters until the deadline even with very early notice. Make it easy for them to write & submit your letters - share some of your previous work in their class if they were your profs, or share your draft CV/portfolio. Take the initiative to show them that this is important for you, but don't rush them for any comments/feedbacks.
- Don't be afraid to show projects outside of the realm of spatial design - any high-quality work that speaks for your ideas and who you are would help.
- Revisit your statements after you write them again and again! I didn't get to rewrite my personal statement and had to submit them right before deadlines because of full-time work. After submitting, I re-read my essays and genuinely hoped that I could have more time to refine them. Start planning the essays and the portfolio at the same time so that they can inform each other naturally.
crb1234
Mar 4, 21 4:51 am
Congratulations on MIT!!!
crb1234
Mar 4, 21 8:11 am
Even I am waiting to hear from UCB for MLA II. Apparently one of my friend received an email from the department regarding the acceptance waiting for the official update on the portal.
chen233
Mar 4, 21 12:50 pm
Thanks! My friend at Berkeley MLA told me that their decision are sent out on a rolling basis... not sure if this is accurate but hopefully they should come out soon! Seems like Berkeley already send out most decisions tho....
starkkitect
Mar 30, 23 4:26 am
could you share your portfolio please?
chxis
Mar 3, 21 9:54 pm
.
SpaceSyntax_fse
Mar 4, 21 10:24 am
hello to all, I am an international applicant to courses MAUD/MCP
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
Sir JJ College of Architecture, Mumbai, India/ 2019
Program Applying for with Path/Track
MAUD- GSD, Pratt, Coumbia, KTH
MCP-UC Berkeley, Upenn
MSc (Urbanism)- TU Delft
MUP- NUS, singapore
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
GPA: 7.63/10; GRE: Waived; TOEFL-110; IELTS-8
Letter of Recommendations
1-Academic Thesis Advisor
1-Asst. Professor (Environment Studies)
1- Professional (Urban Planning)- Chairman
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Personally curated essays with a focus on my perspective- blend of landscape + architecture + Urbanism. Followed by an expanse of self-initiatives in the field. Research aim and interests + associated with faculty of each university
Portfolio
Graduation Thesis-in detail - (Sustainable Urban & Regional Planning); 2 competitions (group projects) -Urban Design/ Policymaking; 1 urban design project (academic); 1 architecture design, last 2 pages dedicated to Architectural Photography (Professional Practice for over 3 years)
Schools
MAUD- GSD, Pratt, Coumbia, KTH
MCP-UC Berkeley, Upenn
MSc (Urbanism)- TU Delft
MUP- NUS, Singapore
Open house Impressions
Impressed by UC Berkeley, UPenn, and MIT (MCP). however MIT shut their applications for international applicants this year. Harvard was largely obnoxious at open house meets.
Attended online conferences and open meets like Boston Architectural Association. etc. Lots of references on GSD site.
Results
MAUD/ GSD-Waitlisted
MAUD/ Pratt-Accepted
MCP/ UCB-Rejected
MCP/ Upenn- 11 March (fingers crossed)
Awaiting rest.
Tips/Suggestions
Work extensively on your SOP and portfolio. GIVE IT TIME. I wrote easily 4-5 drafts of my SOP. And with each university keep modifying, keep building. Give yourself enough time before the deadline to re-asses your application. and don't submit close to the deadline. preferably a month in advance.
Definitely not after 15 December, or between 15 Dec-1 Jan.
Either before 15 Dec. or after 1 Jan.
ASSESS your application, several times. make sure there are no errors,
Grammarly the shit out of your SOP for errors. Cant afford to make any mistake in that aspect.
And think through your portfolio-let the whole thing be like a storybook (advice from MIT).
Conclusion
Pre-applications-I was one to be too eager to be a part of the ivy League and these infamous colleges. While applying/ Post applying I gained a better and perhaps a more confident image of myself. March come to end, whether I make it to my dream colleges or not, I am content that I gave my best to it. That is really all the satisfaction you need. Take the disheartenment of a rejection with peace. Process your anxiety and sadness, and move on. Its not the end of the world.
You are going to be a kickass designer/ planer/ professional and individual whether you make it to these programs or not!
Best Wishes,
S
crb1234
Mar 4, 21 11:37 am
Loved the conclusion part.. Good Luck...
SpaceSyntax_fse
Mar 14, 21 10:55 am
Update: Accepted to GSAPP, NUS and TU delft.
michael88
Mar 4, 21 12:37 pm
Hopping on this thread!
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
B.Arch/ India/ April 2021
Program Applying for with Path/Track
Urban Design (or City Planning with an urban design conc.)
GPA - GRE - TOEFL
8/10 - n/a - 115
Letter of Recommendations
Three in total. Two from professors, one from employer
Work Experience
2 summer internships, 1 full-year internship
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Wrote about social inclusivity in urban design, and how the professional practice in the country inadvertently leads to an exclusion of communities. Also wrote about my experiences with design that cemented my decision to continue with my education. Finished off by talking about professors and their works that I was interested in.
Portfolio
Four, all urban design related (one research)
Schools
GSD- MAUD
MIT- SMArchS
GSAPP- MSAUD
Penn- MCP (UD conc.)
WashU- MUD
Tu Delft- Urbanism
AA School- Housing and Urbanism
Open house Impressions: Virtually attended them. Mostly talked about info that was already up on the sites
Results
GSD- Rejected. Expected really, considering that I did not have the recommended work experience (2-3 years).
Penn- In. Just keeping my fingers crossed for some form of financial aid :/
WashU- In
Awaiting the rest
Tips/Suggestions: Start much, much earlier than you need to. I started in early September and ended up finishing minutes before some deadlines. The days leading up to Jan were horrible, I was just stressed and tired and worried a good amount of the time. Look up sample portfolios and rework on projects. Make a list of professors you want to work with, listen to their lectures, read publications they were involved with.
Things will work out. Just remember not to spend too much time on here while getting your applications done :)
michael88
Mar 12, 21 9:19 pm
Update: in at GSAPP
crb1234
Mar 12, 21 11:45 pm
Me to...In at GSAPP MSAUD Indian applicant... See you at the open house :)
michael88
Mar 13, 21 3:09 am
Hi! Have you decided where you're going? Or what decision looks better rn?
crb1234
Mar 13, 21 3:35 am
Hey...Not yet!! in a process of analyzing the pros and cons of each decision. Would you like to connect? we can discuss further.
michael88
Mar 13, 21 12:15 pm
Yea! I'll drop you a mail!
SpaceSyntax_fse
Mar 14, 21 10:57 am
In at GSAPP too...see you at Open House
thomito yorkito
Mar 15, 21 2:05 pm
in at GSAPP MSAUD, see you at the open house!
mlaopoul
Mar 8, 21 1:30 pm
Hi everyone!
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
Spatial Planning and Development Engineer / Aristotle University of Thessaloniki / Greece / Expected: July 2021
Program Applying for with Path/Track
Mostly Urban Planning, concentration in urban analytics or urban design
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
8.4/10 / n/a / IELTS: 8.5
Letter of Recommendations
2 from professors from my Uni, 1 from my exchange studies supervising professor in Chiba university, Japan
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Wrote about the dynamic nature of the cityscape and the inability of certain planning methods to embrace the fluid nature of our cities. More or less, how our cities can adapt to the changes of our times.
Portfolio
7 projects/maps of different scales, starting from regional to neighborhood planning. Included some coding, place branding, graphic design projects and photography.
Schools
MIT Media Lab (really, a shot in the dark)/ City Science Lab
Virtually attended, as said before, mostly talked about the programs and application process
Results
MIT: Rejected (saw that coming the moment I started preparing my application)
GSAPP: Waiting, had an interview 2 weeks ago, went pretty well
Cornell: Accepted
UPenn: Waiting, results will be announced 11/3
KTH: Waiting, results will be announced 9/4
Awaiting for Delft and UCL, results will be announced in August probably
Tips/Suggestions
The portfolio is what took most of my time to prepare, since it was my first time making one. Also, start your statements and essays as soon as possible and be aware of the writting style that is usually requested. For example, US Universities are looking for a more personal view, whilst EU ones need straight facts about your previous studies and your goals for graduate studies.
mlaopoul
Mar 15, 21 1:08 pm
update: Rejected from UPenn. Still awating from GSAPP, has anyone heard anything from them?
grrd
Mar 17, 21 1:57 pm
I heard from them last week, and from what I've seen here most people have too. Maybe try reaching out to them if you don't have an answer yet.
Zoidian
Mar 12, 21 11:50 pm
Undergraduate Degree/ School/ Year graduated
BS in Environmental Science/ UNC Chapel Hill/ Spring 2020
Program Applying for with Path/Track
MLA 3-year programs
GPA - GRE - TOEFL '
3.3 total; 3.6 advanced - Waived - Not Applicable
Letter of recommendations
3 from Professors that knew me well
Personal Essay/Statement
Talked about my journey to discovering my passion for landscape architecture, my research interests/goals, and how X school will help me achieve those goals
Portfolio
Since I do have a design background, my portfolio was mostly art projects from a sculpture class I took in undergrad, as well as a project I did at one of UC Berkeley's summer programs.
Schools
UPenn, Berkeley, UMich, UVA, Ohio State, UIUC, UWashington, and NC State
Open house impressions
Didn't attend
Results
Berkely - Accepted (small $)
UPenn - Rejected
UMich - Accepted (no aid yet)
UVA - Accepted (small $)
Ohio State - Accepted (no aid yet)
UIUC - Accepted (no aid yet)
UWashington - Waitlisted
NC State - Accepted (no aid yet)
Tips
Start your portfolio early! I stupidly waited until the last minute to put my portfolio together, and it shows.
crb1234
Mar 26, 21 8:38 am
Where are you planning to enroll?
SpaceSyntax_fse
Mar 14, 21 10:53 am
got accepted to Ms.AUD at GSAPP and MSC.Architecture (Urbanism) at TU Delft. Awfully confused between the two. Both seem to be excellent programs. Any insights on this?
mlaopoul
Mar 15, 21 1:21 pm
Congratulations! Both are exceptional programs, well respected in the field of Architecture and Planning! If I was in your position I think I would choose the one I could afford. Columbia is a prestigious university, that is for certain, but the costs of tuition + living expenses in NY are astronomical.
oel.nosaj
Mar 15, 21 8:19 pm
I think I will be the odd one here. Got accepted by Havard GSD for MDes (Medium) and MS Fiction and Entertainment at SCI-Arc. Thought the programme at SCI-Arc would have always been my preferred choice and Harvard was a safe play. (Still waiting to hear from MIT SMACT but it’s highly unlikely to be successful, and GSAPP MS CCCP)
Now I am slightly swinging between the two. The new MDes programme at GSD sounds very vague while graduate works from MS Fiction and Entertainment are visually promising. (I am totally new to the States from across the pond.) Would love to hear some tips and advice.
tetraloop
Mar 16, 21 1:12 am
Hey, I’m actually in the same boat as you!
I know quite a few MDes graduates who had interesting (and successful) career directions, and I’m quite excited in leveraging the various research groups at Harvard and MIT communities. I’m waiting for the MDes Mediums open house to get scheduled to hear more about the restructure, and what kinds of impact this will have on the incoming students.
vcj11
Mar 19, 21 4:32 pm
Same here! I'm was accepted into Royal College of Art and MDes Mediums. RCA has been straight forward for program structure and type of work I'd be making. Plus, they clearly show student work. MDes sounds intriguing with its flexibility and emphasis on collaboration, but I'm having a hard time finding what students are making. As many courses are lab based and admissions said Mediums cohort would be focused on making work, I have yet to see much from previous Technology students. Does anyone have any info on this or how alumni have liked the program? Or any insight on whether one would recommend RCA vs MDes for design?
oel.nosaj
Mar 20, 21 3:15 pm
Probably not the best one to answer it but I did went to RCA for Part 2 a few years ago. (thus my plan to the US would be more like an adventure...) I loved RCA a lot, and one of the best parts (for me) was the nature of an art college itself. There were opportunities to collaborate with students from other programmes such as textile, fashion, design engineering, history of art and product design (pre-Covid era... not sure how the college is operation at the moment) and within the Architecture programme, you are dedicated to one design studio each year and have the opportunity to achieve in-depth INDIVIDUAL thesis and research as well as producing architectural design projects alongside.
I tried to look for previous student works from MDes and hardly find anything or just very minimal. Architecture education is pretty much about portfolio building and I struggle to image how my work or myself would turn out at the end of this two year programme.
vcj11
Mar 20, 21 7:43 pm
That is helpful insight! MDes isn't focused on building your architecture portfolio though. It seems like it is what you make of it and can choose your own path in terms of what you want to make. Did you apply to Mdes?
oel.nosaj
Mar 21, 21 4:41 am
You are actually replying under my response to the thread haha. I am accepted by MDes Medium. What I meant was portfolio, a pool of projects that have been done, and not necessarily to be architectural. Eventually the professional world would judge you on your experience and previous work. And I personally value individual thesis, research and design projects a lot. I understand the art of collaboration and have enjoyed it in the past. But the description of the new MDes Medium sounds like it is all about group projects. Even in 'Trajectory' in the final semester of the course (I guess it is the word for thesis?) 'collaborative' was mentioned. I don't want to not being able to produce any new individual work after spending 150 grand and two years of time.(Although MDes can be a very good platform for PhD) Thus I am leaning more towards the MS Fiction and Entertainment programme in Sci-Arc now(which is another complete different pathway).
msomebody
Apr 2, 21 1:55 pm
Hey! Did you attend the M.Des. Open House? Are you planning to attend the GSD MDes Program?
dwem403
Mar 28, 23 12:45 am
Just curious, is MDes (Medium) opened for the Fine Arts background people?
grrd
Mar 16, 21 10:22 pm
Hi everyone!
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
B. Arch / UDLAP / Mexico / 2015
Program Applying for with Path/Track
MAUD, Landscape Urbanism
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
9.0/10.0 - N/A - TOEFL 110/120
Letter of Recommendations
3 in total: 1 professor (AA alum), 1 former team leader (work experience), 1 volunteer work supervisor
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
I wrote about the challenges I have found for the industry and related that to my work experience and interests in working towards a more sustainable built environment.
Portfolio
1 community-scale project from undergrad, 1 urban-scale project from the AA Visiting School, 1 self-driven professional sample and 1 photography project.
Schools
AA - Msc (or M Arch) Landscape Urbanism
Harvard GSD - Master of Architecture in Urban Design
Columbia GSAPP - M.S. Architecture and Urban Design
Yale School of Architecture
University of Michigan - MURP
Open house Impressions
I attended a virtual open house at the GSD. It gave the impression of having a diverse range of students from different backgrounds, which is appealing to me.
Results
AA - In
Harvard GSD - In
Columbia GSAPP - In
Yale - Rejected
University of Michigan - Rejected
Tips/Suggestions
I think that what worked for me was having a clear understanding of what I would like to explore at any of these schools. Make sure that is in alignment with your academic and work experience, and show it in your personal statement and portfolio.
mahermoghrabi
Mar 18, 21 3:32 pm
Hello , Did anyone hear back from GSAPP MS.UP ?
ankitasharma1
Mar 21, 21 7:36 am
Some students posted results on gradcafe. I think results are out.
mahermoghrabi
Mar 21, 21 7:44 am
Still haven't received anything
ankitasharma1
Mar 20, 21 2:44 pm
hi,
Did anyone hear back from GSAPP MSAAD?????
p3_g
Mar 20, 21 7:48 pm
Hey, I applied to the same haven’t heard from them yet. This is causing me a lot of anxiety. Has anyone else heard from them?
ankitasharma1
Mar 21, 21 7:37 am
I know but for all the other course intivation for open house is sent
ankitasharma1
Mar 21, 21 7:37 am
Invitations*
p3_g
Mar 21, 21 8:24 am
Are you sure? But ppl who have applied for MSAAD haven’t heard from them yet right?
p3_g
Mar 21, 21 8:33 am
I heard urban planning and MSUD results are out. But for MSAAD they aren’t out right?
ankitasharma1
Mar 21, 21 8:44 am
Yeah that's right MSAAD results are not yet out.
p3_g
Mar 21, 21 9:07 am
this wait is giving me sleepless nights. Let me know if you get it :) all the best!
ankitasharma1
Mar 21, 21 9:35 am
Hey thanks for good luck:)
ankitasharma1
Mar 21, 21 9:35 am
All the best to you too
ankitasharma1
Mar 23, 21 1:28 am
Results are out I guess but I haven't received any update.
ankitasharma1
Mar 23, 21 1:29 am
Do you got update
p3_g
Mar 25, 21 9:59 pm
Did you get any update yet ?!
ankitasharma1
Mar 25, 21 10:14 pm
Nopes.
ankitasharma1
Mar 25, 21 10:14 pm
What about you ???
p3_g
Mar 25, 21 10:36 pm
Same here. They gave our acceptances for March again after a week of giving out their first acceptances. What about for MSAAD ?
ankitasharma1
Mar 25, 21 10:41 pm
I am not sure now lot of people got accepted in MSAAD as per grad cafe results. Do you have any idea what is the class
strength of MSAAD.
p3_g
Mar 25, 21 10:58 pm
I saw only two in grad
cafe so far if I am not wrong
Yeah, mention your application number while writing letter.
p3_g
Mar 28, 21 11:28 pm
The reference number right ? Did you mail them? Did they write back to you?
ankitasharma1
Mar 28, 21 11:43 pm
Yes reference number. I mailed them regarding application status on 19th march, got replied two days back that i will likely receive my admissions decision early next week.
p3_g
Mar 28, 21 11:59 pm
I mailed them on 24th haven’t got any reply yet.
ankitasharma1
Mar 29, 21 12:08 am
Most probably we will receive decision next week. Let's see.
p3_g
Mar 29, 21 8:46 pm
If they had said early next week last week then it’s this week only no ?!
ankitasharma1
Mar 30, 21 12:27 am
Yes this week only.
p3_g
Mar 30, 21 12:38 am
All the
best! Let me know if you get any update:)
p3_g
Apr 19, 21 1:37 am
Anyone from India committing to UMich MArch 2 year program?? Would love to get connected!
sanahmengi
Jan 25, 22 12:15 pm
Hi Guys, anyone can help me evaluate my profile and the chances to get into MAUD and MUD programs at the univ. I have applied to?
Nope. Waiting with lot of anxiety. Has anyone else heard from them?
p3_g
Mar 21, 21 6:18 am
Guess the results aren’t out yet
nilenvarade
Mar 21, 21 6:58 am
Waiting!
klklkl
Mar 23, 21 7:50 am
Hello and congrats on everyone’s acceptances!
I would like to get in touch with those considering or have any insights regarding Cornell AAP and Columbia GSAPP MSAAD program. I was accepted to both but I’m still weighting my options. Shoot me an email! Thanks!!
vala123
Mar 28, 21 2:03 pm
Hello, I am hoping to get some insight on the graduate programs I got accepted into. I
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
University of Connecticut, B.S Natural Resources and B.S Landscape Architecture
Program Applying for with Path/Track
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
Letter of Recommendations
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Portfolio
Schools
Open house Impressions
Results
Tips/Suggestions
vala123
Mar 28, 21 2:25 pm
Hello, I am hoping to get some insight on the graduate programs I got accepted into. I am interested in attending Politecnico di Milano but I would like to know more about the curriculum and if it is geared towards Urban Design or policy. I am interested in urban design and GSAPP was my dream school. But I am not sure if the financial investment is worth it due to my undergraduate loans. I am open to any opinions/advice about these programs. Thanks!
Undergraduate Degree/School/Country/ Year Graduated
University of Connecticut, B.S Natural Resources and B.S Landscape Architecture
Program Applying for with Path/Track
Masters in Urban Design or Masters in Urban Planning
GPA - GRE - TOEFL/Duolingo/IELTS
3.4 - GRE Waived- N.A
Letter of Recommendations
One Professor and Two principals at the firm I currently work at
Personal Essay/Statement of Purpose
Discussed career goals and interests
Portfolio
Undergraduate work
Schools
GSAPP MUD
City College MUD
Politecnico di Milano Masters in Urban Planning and Policy Design
Open house Impressions
Have not attended yet.
Results
GSAPP MUD- Accepted
City College MUD- Accepted
Politecnico di Milano- Accepted
Archimelon
Apr 2, 21 3:10 pm
Has anyone heard back from Uni of Edinburgh??
p3_g
Apr 19, 21 1:39 am
Anyone from India committing to Umich MArch 2 year program?? Would love to get connected!!
sanahmengi
Jan 25, 22 12:16 pm
Hi Guys, can anyone help me evaluate my profile and the chances to get into MAUD and MUD programs at the univ. I have applied to?
Hey Everyone,
Starting this thread for Master in Landscape Architecture-MLA, Master of Architecture in Urban Design-MAUD, MSAUD, MUD, MLAUD, Masters in City and Regional Planning- MRP, MCP, Master in Urban Planning-MUP and Master in Design Studies-MDES, and other programs like Sustainable and Environmental Planning, etc.
As there is no separate thread or forum for discussion for these applicants and hope it will be helpful. Also, the M.Arch thread is inundated with a lot of applicants. :)
Hi everyone, I got admitted by MCP in Upenn, it is very expensive without a scholarship. Does anyone have thoughts on how to get the investment back after graduation? I'm still interested in design so I'll probably go to the private consulting firm, but I have my options open. Thx!
Hey Congratulations on Upenn, when did you received the admit. I received an email informing me that the decisions will be released on 11th March. I applied for MLA, I am an international applicant. I also haven't heard anything from UCB as well :(
I received the same response. Its kept me anxious. I applied for MCP
Seems like decisions are yet to be made for International applicants... fingers crossed
I received the early notice in email on
Feb 23rd, I know there were some people got it even earlier. I’ll say they are in the process of making decisions, good luck!
Update, GSAPP - in
Me to...In at GSAPP MSAUD See you at the open house :)
Congrats! I’m still trying to make my decision between MCP in UPenn and MAUD in GASPP...
In the same boat deciding between Penn and GSAPP. What are you leaning towards?
I know Penn Design has a great reputation, but maybe GSAPP because of the location... How about you?
Still deciding... can I drop you a mail? So that we could discuss pointers?
Sure!
Glad to see someone starting a thread for MLA/MUD/MUP this year!
- Dedicate a certain amount of time each day (doesn't have to be a lot of time) to work on it and start early! Many people have reiterated on this but I can't stress enough the importance of starting early - you'll be surprised how much you can do if start early and just chip the application away each day.
- Ask for references at least 12 weeks prior to your deadlines. Most of my references didn't get to the letters until the deadline even with very early notice. Make it easy for them to write & submit your letters - share some of your previous work in their class if they were your profs, or share your draft CV/portfolio. Take the initiative to show them that this is important for you, but don't rush them for any comments/feedbacks.
- Don't be afraid to show projects outside of the realm of spatial design - any high-quality work that speaks for your ideas and who you are would help.
- Revisit your statements after you write them again and again! I didn't get to rewrite my personal statement and had to submit them right before deadlines because of full-time work. After submitting, I re-read my essays and genuinely hoped that I could have more time to refine them. Start planning the essays and the portfolio at the same time so that they can inform each other naturally.
Congratulations on MIT!!!
Even I am waiting to hear from UCB for MLA II. Apparently one of my friend received an email from the department regarding the acceptance waiting for the official update on the portal.
Thanks! My friend at Berkeley MLA told me that their decision are sent out on a rolling basis... not sure if this is accurate but hopefully they should come out soon! Seems like Berkeley already send out most decisions tho....
could you share your portfolio please?
.
hello to all, I am an international applicant to courses MAUD/MCP
Sir JJ College of Architecture, Mumbai, India/ 2019
MAUD- GSD, Pratt, Coumbia, KTH
MCP-UC Berkeley, Upenn
MSc (Urbanism)- TU Delft
MUP- NUS, singapore
GPA: 7.63/10; GRE: Waived; TOEFL-110; IELTS-8
1-Academic Thesis Advisor
1-Asst. Professor (Environment Studies)
1- Professional (Urban Planning)- Chairman
Personally curated essays with a focus on my perspective- blend of landscape + architecture + Urbanism. Followed by an expanse of self-initiatives in the field. Research aim and interests + associated with faculty of each university
Graduation Thesis-in detail - (Sustainable Urban & Regional Planning); 2 competitions (group projects) -Urban Design/ Policymaking; 1 urban design project (academic); 1 architecture design, last 2 pages dedicated to Architectural Photography (Professional Practice for over 3 years)
MAUD- GSD, Pratt, Coumbia, KTH
MCP-UC Berkeley, Upenn
MSc (Urbanism)- TU Delft
MUP- NUS, Singapore
Impressed by UC Berkeley, UPenn, and MIT (MCP). however MIT shut their applications for international applicants this year. Harvard was largely obnoxious at open house meets.
Attended online conferences and open meets like Boston Architectural Association. etc. Lots of references on GSD site.
MAUD/ GSD-Waitlisted
MAUD/ Pratt-Accepted
MCP/ UCB-Rejected
MCP/ Upenn- 11 March (fingers crossed)
Awaiting rest.
Work extensively on your SOP and portfolio. GIVE IT TIME. I wrote easily 4-5 drafts of my SOP. And with each university keep modifying, keep building. Give yourself enough time before the deadline to re-asses your application. and don't submit close to the deadline. preferably a month in advance.
Definitely not after 15 December, or between 15 Dec-1 Jan.
Either before 15 Dec. or after 1 Jan.
ASSESS your application, several times. make sure there are no errors,
Grammarly the shit out of your SOP for errors. Cant afford to make any mistake in that aspect.
And think through your portfolio-let the whole thing be like a storybook (advice from MIT).
Conclusion
Pre-applications-I was one to be too eager to be a part of the ivy League and these infamous colleges. While applying/ Post applying I gained a better and perhaps a more confident image of myself. March come to end, whether I make it to my dream colleges or not, I am content that I gave my best to it. That is really all the satisfaction you need. Take the disheartenment of a rejection with peace. Process your anxiety and sadness, and move on. Its not the end of the world.
You are going to be a kickass designer/ planer/ professional and individual whether you make it to these programs or not!
Best Wishes,
S
Loved the conclusion part.. Good Luck...
Update: Accepted to GSAPP, NUS and TU delft.
Hopping on this thread!
Update: in at GSAPP
Me to...In at GSAPP MSAUD Indian applicant... See you at the open house :)
Hi! Have you decided where you're going? Or what decision looks better rn?
Hey...Not yet!! in a process of analyzing the pros and cons of each decision. Would you like to connect? we can discuss further.
Yea! I'll drop you a mail!
In at GSAPP too...see you at Open House
in at GSAPP MSAUD, see you at the open house!
Hi everyone!
Spatial Planning and Development Engineer / Aristotle University of Thessaloniki / Greece / Expected: July 2021
Mostly Urban Planning, concentration in urban analytics or urban design
8.4/10 / n/a / IELTS: 8.5
2 from professors from my Uni, 1 from my exchange studies supervising professor in Chiba university, Japan
Wrote about the dynamic nature of the cityscape and the inability of certain planning methods to embrace the fluid nature of our cities. More or less, how our cities can adapt to the changes of our times.
7 projects/maps of different scales, starting from regional to neighborhood planning. Included some coding, place branding, graphic design projects and photography.
Virtually attended, as said before, mostly talked about the programs and application process
The portfolio is what took most of my time to prepare, since it was my first time making one. Also, start your statements and essays as soon as possible and be aware of the writting style that is usually requested. For example, US Universities are looking for a more personal view, whilst EU ones need straight facts about your previous studies and your goals for graduate studies.
update: Rejected from UPenn. Still awating from GSAPP, has anyone heard anything from them?
I heard from them last week, and from what I've seen here most people have too. Maybe try reaching out to them if you don't have an answer yet.
BS in Environmental Science/ UNC Chapel Hill/ Spring 2020
MLA 3-year programs
3.3 total; 3.6 advanced - Waived - Not Applicable
3 from Professors that knew me well
Talked about my journey to discovering my passion for landscape architecture, my research interests/goals, and how X school will help me achieve those goals
Since I do have a design background, my portfolio was mostly art projects from a sculpture class I took in undergrad, as well as a project I did at one of UC Berkeley's summer programs.
UPenn, Berkeley, UMich, UVA, Ohio State, UIUC, UWashington, and NC State
Didn't attend
Berkely - Accepted (small $)
UPenn - Rejected
UMich - Accepted (no aid yet)
UVA - Accepted (small $)
Ohio State - Accepted (no aid yet)
UIUC - Accepted (no aid yet)
UWashington - Waitlisted
NC State - Accepted (no aid yet)
Start your portfolio early! I stupidly waited until the last minute to put my portfolio together, and it shows.
Where are you planning to enroll?
got accepted to Ms.AUD at GSAPP and MSC.Architecture (Urbanism) at TU Delft. Awfully confused between the two. Both seem to be excellent programs. Any insights on this?
Congratulations! Both are exceptional programs, well respected in the field of Architecture and Planning! If I was in your position I think I would choose the one I could afford. Columbia is a prestigious university, that is for certain, but the costs of tuition + living expenses in NY are astronomical.
I think I will be the odd one here. Got accepted by Havard GSD for MDes (Medium) and MS Fiction and Entertainment at SCI-Arc. Thought the programme at SCI-Arc would have always been my preferred choice and Harvard was a safe play. (Still waiting to hear from MIT SMACT but it’s highly unlikely to be successful, and GSAPP MS CCCP)
Now I am slightly swinging between the two. The new MDes programme at GSD sounds very vague while graduate works from MS Fiction and Entertainment are visually promising. (I am totally new to the States from across the pond.) Would love to hear some tips and advice.
Hey, I’m actually in the same boat as you!
I know quite a few MDes graduates who had interesting (and successful) career directions, and I’m quite excited in leveraging the various research groups at Harvard and MIT communities. I’m waiting for the MDes Mediums open house to get scheduled to hear more about the restructure, and what kinds of impact this will have on the incoming students.
Same here! I'm was accepted into Royal College of Art and MDes Mediums. RCA has been straight forward for program structure and type of work I'd be making. Plus, they clearly show student work. MDes sounds intriguing with its flexibility and emphasis on collaboration, but I'm having a hard time finding what students are making. As many courses are lab based and admissions said Mediums cohort would be focused on making work, I have yet to see much from previous Technology students. Does anyone have any info on this or how alumni have liked the program? Or any insight on whether one would recommend RCA vs MDes for design?
Probably not the best one to answer it but I did went to RCA for Part 2 a few years ago. (thus my plan to the US would be more like an adventure...) I loved RCA a lot, and one of the best parts (for me) was the nature of an art college itself. There were opportunities to collaborate with students from other programmes such as textile, fashion, design engineering, history of art and product design (pre-Covid era... not sure how the college is operation at the moment) and within the Architecture programme, you are dedicated to one design studio each year and have the opportunity to achieve in-depth INDIVIDUAL thesis and research as well as producing architectural design projects alongside.
I tried to look for previous student works from MDes and hardly find anything or just very minimal. Architecture education is pretty much about portfolio building and I struggle to image how my work or myself would turn out at the end of this two year programme.
That is helpful insight! MDes isn't focused on building your architecture portfolio though. It seems like it is what you make of it and can choose your own path in terms of what you want to make. Did you apply to Mdes?
You are actually replying under my response to the thread haha. I am accepted by MDes Medium. What I meant was portfolio, a pool of projects that have been done, and not necessarily to be architectural. Eventually the professional world would judge you on your experience and previous work. And I personally value individual thesis, research and design projects a lot. I understand the art of collaboration and have enjoyed it in the past. But the description of the new MDes Medium sounds like it is all about group projects. Even in 'Trajectory' in the final semester of the course (I guess it is the word for thesis?) 'collaborative' was mentioned. I don't want to not being able to produce any new individual work after spending 150 grand and two years of time.(Although MDes can be a very good platform for PhD) Thus I am leaning more towards the MS Fiction and Entertainment programme in Sci-Arc now(which is another complete different pathway).
Hey! Did you attend the M.Des. Open House? Are you planning to attend the GSD MDes Program?
Just curious, is MDes (Medium) opened for the Fine Arts background people?
Hi everyone!
Hello , Did anyone hear back from GSAPP MS.UP ?
Some students posted results on gradcafe. I think results are out.
Still haven't received anything
hi,
Did anyone hear back from GSAPP MSAAD?????
Hey, I applied to the same haven’t heard from them yet. This is causing me a lot of anxiety. Has anyone else heard from them?
I know but for all the other course intivation for open house is sent
Invitations*
Are you sure? But ppl who have applied for MSAAD haven’t heard from them yet right?
I heard urban planning and MSUD results are out. But for MSAAD they aren’t out right?
Yeah that's right MSAAD results are not yet out.
this wait is giving me sleepless nights. Let me know if you get it :) all the best!
Hey thanks for good luck:)
All the best to you too
Results are out I guess but I haven't received any update.
Do you got update
Did you get any update yet ?!
Nopes.
What about you ???
Same here. They gave our acceptances for March again after a week of giving out their first acceptances. What about for MSAAD ?
I am not sure now lot of people got accepted in MSAAD as per grad cafe results. Do you have any idea what is the class
strength of MSAAD.
I saw only two in grad
cafe so far if I am not wrong
https://www.thegradcafe.com/survey/index.php?q=Gsapp&t=a&o=&pp=25
On 22nd march lot of them got accepted so frankly speaking I am not hoping anything now.
I still have hope let’s see:)
Hey, [email protected] this is their mail Id right ?
Yeah, mention your application number while writing letter.
The reference number right ? Did you mail them? Did they write back to you?
Yes reference number. I mailed them regarding application status on 19th march, got replied two days back that i will likely receive my admissions decision early next week.
I mailed them on 24th haven’t got any reply yet.
Most probably we will receive decision next week. Let's see.
If they had said early next week last week then it’s this week only no ?!
Yes this week only.
All the
best! Let me know if you get any update:)
Anyone from India committing to UMich MArch 2 year program?? Would love to get connected!
Hi Guys, anyone can help me evaluate my profile and the chances to get into MAUD and MUD programs at the univ. I have applied to?
hi,
Did anyone hear back from GSAPP MSAAD?????
Did anyone hear back from GSAPP MSAAD?????
Nope. Waiting with lot of anxiety. Has anyone else heard from them?
Guess the results aren’t out yet
Waiting!
Hello and congrats on everyone’s acceptances!
I would like to get in touch with those considering or have any insights regarding Cornell AAP and Columbia GSAPP MSAAD program. I was accepted to both but I’m still weighting my options.
Shoot me an email! Thanks!!
Hello, I am hoping to get some insight on the graduate programs I got accepted into. I
University of Connecticut, B.S Natural Resources and B.S Landscape Architecture
Hello, I am hoping to get some insight on the graduate programs I got accepted into. I am interested in attending Politecnico di Milano but I would like to know more about the curriculum and if it is geared towards Urban Design or policy. I am interested in urban design and GSAPP was my dream school. But I am not sure if the financial investment is worth it due to my undergraduate loans. I am open to any opinions/advice about these programs. Thanks!
University of Connecticut, B.S Natural Resources and B.S Landscape Architecture
Masters in Urban Design or Masters in Urban Planning
3.4 - GRE Waived- N.A
One Professor and Two principals at the firm I currently work at
Discussed career goals and interests
Undergraduate work
GSAPP MUD
City College MUD
Politecnico di Milano Masters in Urban Planning and Policy Design
Have not attended yet.
GSAPP MUD- Accepted
City College MUD- Accepted
Politecnico di Milano- Accepted
Has anyone heard back from Uni of Edinburgh??
Anyone from India committing to Umich MArch 2 year program?? Would love to get connected!!
Hi Guys, can anyone help me evaluate my profile and the chances to get into MAUD and MUD programs at the univ. I have applied to?