YArch 2025 will run weekdays in July. The dates of the program will be announced in early 2025. Contact Natalie Wess nwess2@uic.edu to receive updates about the program.

YArch is open to current college students and adults with or without formal training in architecture. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; most applicants receive an admission decision within two weeks of applying. Space is limited—we encourage you to apply and register early. Applicants who are admitted to the program will be informed via email. If the program fills, applicants may be placed on a waitlist.

Applications for YArch 2024 are closed.
 

Application Deadlines 

Priority Deadline: May 15, 2025
 
Final Deadline: June 5, 2025
 
 

Application Requirements

 
All required materials are submitted electronically through our online application form. Applicants must submit the following:
  1. Statement of Intent: 500 words describing your interest in architecture and how YArch fits into your education or career history and future plans. Successful statements of intent include specific reasons for applying to YArch; statements should elaborate beyond "because I want to be an architect" or "I want to prepare for graduate school in architecture."

  2. Creative Work Samples: Two examples of original creative work (submitted as PDFs). Appropriate submissions may include sketches, drawings, sculpture, collage, graphic design, photography, jewelry making, web design, woodworking, and so on. Creative writing is also acceptable if at least one visual work is submitted. Works originally completed in color should be scanned or photographed in color for submission.

  3. Resume or CV

Program Fees

Application fee: $25
Due at the time of application
 
Program Registration fee: $2400
Due upon admission to the program
 
International Student fee: $149
All international students are charged an additional Orientation/Arrival Fee of $149 to cover the costs of initial arrival services and programs.
 
 

Admitted Students

Upon being admitted to YArch, participants must register and submit the program registration fee by June 5. Note that space is limited and the program may fill. Admitted students will receive further information about the program schedule, recommended preparation, and other details as July approaches. Participants must adhere to current university COVID-19 guidelines.
 
 

Fee Payment and Refund Policy

The program fee must be paid by credit card. A payment plan will be made available to admitted students who prefer to pay the fee in multiple installments. The School will provide a 50 percent refund to registered YArch participants who wish to withdraw on or before July 7, 2025. After that date, no refunds will be given.
Questions?
Contact