Boston Architectural College: 2025 Admissions, Programs & Campus Life

Dreaming of launching your architectural journey in a city where history meets innovation? At Boston Architectural College (BAC), you’ll receive hands-on education that prepares you for the professional world. Whether you’re exploring a degree in sustainable design, digital fabrication, or urban planning, you’ll work side by side with experienced faculty and industry partners.

Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), BAC offers an intimate studio culture, with small classes and personalized mentorship. Plus, its post bacc degree allows career changers and recent graduates to sharpen their skills or complete prerequisites for advanced study. Join us as we explore how BAC transforms your passion for architecture into practical expertise in a city that inspires innovation.

About the Boston Architectural College

Founded in 1889, BAC stands out for its practice-based approach to architectural education. Located just steps from historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers, students have the opportunity to learn through real-world projects, restoring heritage buildings one week and designing a public plaza the next.

The Boston University architecture ranking in 2025 is 8th among the best architecture colleges in America, according to NICHE. Understanding the Boston Architectural College rankings provides insight into its reputation within the design education landscape.

BAC’s studio-style classes ensure that every student receives individual guidance, while its flexible certification programs support those returning to school or changing careers. As a private, nonprofit institution, BAC focuses on career-ready skills, building your technical knowledge through fabrication labs, software workshops, and community-centered design studios.

With a diverse student body from around the world, BAC fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, spanning architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and sustainable master planning. Its supportive community and strong industry partnerships ensure your education connects directly to your future career.

Boston Architectural College Admission Requirements

With several degree options from undergraduate and graduate programs to online certifications, BAC is a top choice among students. To give you a complete guide for college admission, let’s take a look at the undergraduate and graduate Boston Architectural College admission requirements:

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• Secondary-School Diploma: From an accredited high school (minimum GPA 2.5).
• Official Transcripts: High-school and any college work; international credentials require a course-by-course evaluation.
• Creative Portfolio: Samples of design or artistic work (PDF or digital).
• Personal Statement: 250-500 words outlining goals and why BAC is a fit.
• Letter of Recommendation: One academic or professional reference.
• Résumé/CV: Detailing relevant experience.
• English Proficiency: Required unless you’ve completed three years in an English-medium school. The accepted scores are:

Graduate Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree: From a regionally accredited institution (minimum GPA 3.0; some M.Arch tracks may require higher).
• Official Transcripts: Undergraduate record; international degrees need a credential evaluation.
• Creative Portfolio: During the Boston Architectural College admission process, submitting your creative portfolio is mandatory for on-campus; optional for others.
• Statement of Purpose: 250-500 words on professional goals and BAC fit.
• Letter of Recommendation: One academic or professional reference.
• Résumé/CV: Highlighting academic, work, and volunteer history.
• English Proficiency: Same standard as undergraduates.

Boston Architectural College Application Deadlines

The Boston Architectural College admissions process is known for being open and accessible, with rolling enrollment year‑round. The priority deadline for the academic year 2025 is:

How to Apply to the Boston Architectural College

The complete step-by-step process to apply for any undergraduate or graduate degree program in BAC Boston as an international student is:

1. Request Information: Complete BAC’s inquiry form to receive program brochures and connect with an admissions advisor.
2. Schedule a Visit or Call: Book a campus tour or virtual meeting to talk through your goals, portfolio needs, and timeline.
3. Start Your Application: Fill out the online undergraduate or graduate form and pay the $50 application fee. Check program deadlines to stay on track.
4. Upload Transcripts and  Evaluations: Send official high-school or bachelor’s transcripts. If your credentials are non-U.S., include a course-by-course evaluation from a NACES agency.
5. Submit Creative Work and Essays: Undergraduates upload a portfolio of design/art samples and a personal statement. M.Arch applicants must submit a design portfolio and statement of purpose.
6. Provide Recommendations and Résumé: Include one letter of recommendation and a current résumé or CV highlighting relevant projects and experience.
7. Share Financial Documents: International applicants upload bank statements or sponsor affidavits to support Form I-20 issuance.
8. Interview (If Required): Certain graduate tracks may request an admissions interview via video or in person.
9. Receive Your Decision: Watch for an email notification. Admitted international students work with BAC’s Office of Global Engagement to finalize their I-20 and F1-visa paperwork.

Boston Architectural College Tuition and Fees

As one of the best architecture schools in Boston, BAC gives you the opportunity to work while you earn your degree. It offers a high-quality academic experience to both domestic and international students at affordable rates and provides financial aid to support them. The tuition and fees for the undergraduate and graduate degree programs are listed below:

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees (Summer 2025 - Spring 2026)

Graduate Tuition and Fees (Summer 2025 - Spring 2026)

Scholarship Opportunities at the Boston Architectural College

Boston Architectural College offers various scholarship opportunities and financial aid to meritorious and creative top performers. For international students looking for architecture degree Boston, here are the top Boston Architectural College scholarships you can apply for: 

Find the Best Student Housing Near the BAC Boston

Boston Architectural College partners with Pro ARTS consortium schools to offer on-campus double rooms with shared lounges, bathrooms, and a mandatory meal plan. Beyond that, BAC’s Office of Student Life helps you explore off-campus options. Staff match roommates, guide you through leases, and point you toward neighborhoods such as Fenway, Allston, and Back Bay.

Amber can help you find an ideal off-campus apartment. Browse thousands of student-friendly listings from studios near Boylston Street to multi-bedroom apartments in vibrant Allston. Each listing highlights affordability, modern amenities, and secure buildings. Let Amber streamline your search so you can focus on classes, workshops, and city life.

Here is a list of top affordable housing options for students of the BAC Boston:

• Lightview, Boston
• 1047 Commonwealth, Boston
• Imprint, Dorchester
• South Standard Apartments, Boston
• The Tremont, Boston