Past Scholar Recipients

Previous Next Generation Graduate Scholarship recipients are under Scholars.

About

Architecture is about enhancing the human experience by creating buildings that reflect, serve, and strengthen communities. This scholarship was created in 1970 with an initial grant from the Ford Foundation, after Whitney Young Jr. challenged architects in 1968 to create a more responsible field. Read more about Whitney Young Jr. here.

We believe that different viewpoints and cultures are a valuable asset to the architectural profession, and this scholarship offers students with a passion for architecture an opportunity to successfully complete their studies no matter where they come from.

Architects Foundation is working to attract, inspire and invest in the next generation of architects, and we can help fund your college education with this multiyear scholarship of up to $10,000. Those selected as Next Generation Scholars will join a select group of students who through imagination, commitment to excellence, and participation in a supportive network can change the landscape of the profession and future of the built environment.

Important to note

Please note that we have separate undergraduate and graduate applications. When you click the application link, you’ll be directed to the main application page — from there, select the option that reflects your student status for Fall 2026 (undergraduate or graduate).

Both applications contain the same questions and requirements — the only difference is the category (undergraduate or graduate).

You may only apply under one status.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Next Generation Graduate Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:

• US citizens or permanent residents
• Students in the last year of a non-NAAB four year program (B.A. or B.S.) and planning to enroll in a NAAB-accredited graduate degree program
• Technical school or community college students who has completed high school or its equivalent and intends to transfer to a NAAB-accredited architecture program

Previous Next Generation Graduate Scholarship recipients are under Scholars.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• A professional resume
• Two letters of recommendation
• A portfolio (3-5 creative works, do not have to be architecture-specific)
• Answers to three short answer questions (300 words each)
  • What influenced you to become an architect?
  • Describe a situation in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time?
  • How do you view the potential of architecture to improve communities?

Timeline

Application period: November 2, 2026 – January 8, 2027
Jury review period: January 2027 – March 2027
Recipient selection meeting: April 2027
Recipients notified: April 2027