ArchCAS Quick Start Guide and FAQs

What is ArchCAS?

The Architecture Centralized Application Service (ArchCAS) simplifies the process of applying to masters in architecture programs. You start by selecting the programs you wish to apply to, then you submit one application that includes all necessary materials. Once received by ArchCAS, your application and materials are transmitted to all of your selected programs. Click here to start your application.

How long does the application process take?

It's important you apply as early as possible since completing your application can be a lengthy process, and since application processing times vary throughout the cycle. Below is a suggested timeline that includes key actions to keep the application process on track. This timeline may need to be adjusted based on your programs' deadlines and requirements.

Timeline	Key Actions
Prior to the Start of the Application Process	Research programs you wish to apply to. Pay special attention to: Cycle dates and deadline requirements. Application fees. Recommendation requirements. Minimum requirements, including prerequisites, standardized test scores, supplemental applications, foreign evaluations, etc. Begin contacting potential recommenders to confirm their participation. Review the instructions in this Help Center.
At Least 3 Months Prior to Deadline	Create your account. Complete the Colleges Attended section. Complete the Recommendations section.
At Least 10-12 Weeks Prior to Deadline	Ask your schools to send official transcripts directly to ArchCAS. If there are any holds on your account at a school, resolve them now to avoid delays in sending transcripts. Check in with your recommenders to confirm that they received the recommendation request via email.
At Least 6-8 Weeks Prior to Deadline	Complete and submit your application. Monitor your application for receipt of transcripts and letters of recommendation and follow up on any missing items.
At Least 4-6 Weeks Prior to Deadline	Continue monitoring your application until your status is Verified.
After Deadline	Download a copy of your application for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Transcripts and GPAs

Programs and Statuses

Fees and Payments

Do I need to send transcripts?: Yes, you must submit official transcripts to ArchCAS. See Sending Official Transcripts for more guidelines on each type of transcript.

Where do I find the Transcript Request Form?: The Transcript Request Form is found in the Colleges Attended section, after you submit a college or university entry.

Should I send my high school transcripts?: No.

My transfer credits are listed on my primary transcript. Do I still need to send all transcripts?: You must report all colleges and universities attended and submit official transcripts, even if your transfer credits are listed on your primary transcript. See Sending Official Transcripts for more guidelines.

How do I know what my primary institution is?: Your primary institution is the college or university where you earned or will earn your first undergraduate college degree.

Do I have to enter coursework?: No.

I don't agree with the GPA. How do I change it?: The ArchCAS GPAs are based on the school-specific GPAs listed on your official transcripts. If you don't agree with those GPAs, contact your colleges or universities for their calculations.

How do I remove a program?: Your application must always have at least one program selected. To remove a program, first navigate to the Add Programs tab and select the desired program(s). Then navigate to the Submit Application tab and remove the undesired program(s).

Can I apply to more programs after I submit my application?: Yes, if the program's deadline date has not yet passed and the application cycle is open.

Should I submit my application if I'm still waiting on transcripts, recommendations, and/or official test scores?: Yes. You can submit your application before your transcripts, recommendations, and/or official test scores are received by ArchCAS.

I submitted my application to the wrong program. What do I do?: If you would like your application to be considered for a different program, contact the school to determine if they can change your program.

Will ArchCAS update me on the status of my application?: Your application status for each program is listed in the Check Status section of the application. ArchCAS will notify you when official transcripts and Recommendations are received, and when your application is verified.

When will I learn about admissions decisions? Did I get in!?: You must reach out to your program(s) to learn about a school's admissions decisions.

Is there any other way to pay other than by credit card?: We currently only accept payments by credit card: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

I want a refund. What do I need to do?: Refunds are not given for any reason. Review Refunding/Withdrawing Your ArchCAS Application for more information.

Do fee waivers expire?: If you qualified for and were awarded a ArchCAS fee waiver, your fee waiver expires in 7 days, including weekends and holidays. See ArchCAS Application Fees for more information.

Why don’t I see the option for a fee waiver?: ArchCAS has a limited amount of fee waivers to award over a cycle. If you do not see the option to apply for a fee waiver, then all fee waivers have been awarded and none are left to be dispersed.