Next Generation Scholarship

Up to $20,000 | Accepting applications: November 7, 2025 to January 9, 2026

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 $20,000. 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 Requirements

Eligible students must be a US citizen or permanent resident:

a senior high school student planning to enroll in a NAAB-accredited architecture degree program;
a rising second-year college student in a NAAB-accredited architecture degree program; or,
a technical school or community college student who has completed high school or its equivalent and intends to transfer to a NAAB-accredited architecture program
a student 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

NAAB-accredited degree programs may be a five-year Bachelor of Architecture degree, or a four-year pre-professional bachelor’s degree followed by a Master of Architecture degree. Scholarships may be renewed for up to 5 years (up to a $20,000 total award—multiple scholarships are available).

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?

*Please address letters of reference to the “2025 Selection Committee.”

Timeline

Application period: November 2025 – January 2026

Review period: February – April 2026

Scholarship recipient selection meeting: late April 2026

Scholarship recipients notified: Immediately following the meeting

First scholarship disbursement: August 2026