All students interested in architecture are encouraged to apply to Washington University, regardless of their financial circumstances. The types of financial assistance available include:

- Assistance based on merit and family financial circumstances

- Assistance in the form of academic scholarships, based solely on merit and awarded through special competitions

- Payment and financing programs for parents

- Employment opportunities on campus

About 60% of undergraduates receive financial assistance, including scholarships. A variety of student loans (long-term payments, low interest) and part-time employment are available. Students who receive assistance come from a broad range of economic backgrounds.

International Students

For financial assistance information, see the special International Guide for Prospective Undergraduate Students or call 800 638 0700 (within the U.S. only) or 314.935.6000.

Academic Scholarships

The University offers academic scholarships to a number of outstanding students regardless of financial circumstances. These include:

James W. Fitzgibbon Scholarship

The James W. Fitzgibbon Scholarship in Architecture supports four years of study leading to either of the undergraduate degrees in architecture. This merit-based fund is awarded to an incoming freshman demonstrating outstanding academic performance and promise in the field of architecture. The scholarship is for full tuition plus a $1,000 stipend, renewable for each year of undergraduate study. Interested students should inquire through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and complete the application for freshman admission to Washington University as well as the Fitzgibbon application by January 15. A portfolio is required. Finalists are invited to spend a weekend in St. Louis as guests of the University, where they will have the opportunity to tour the campus and the city, meet other Fitzgibbon finalists, and conduct interviews with the Fitzgibbon committee. The Fitzgibbon Scholar will be chosen and notified in March.

Other Academic Scholarships

In addition, students may apply for the John B. Ervin Scholars Program or Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program, or be considered for the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Scholars Program. All of these scholarship programs enhance the overall quality and diversity of the student body.

Entrepreneurial Scholars Program

Architecture school applicants with an entrepreneurial spirit and vision may apply for the Entrepreneurial Scholars Program, a renewable annual scholarship of $3,000

AIA Scholarships

Students should check with their local chapter of the American Institute of Architects to determine if additional funding is available.

Elizabeth S. Schmerling Endowed Scholarship

Established in Elizabeth's honor and memory by her parents, Jonathan and Veronica Schmerling, and her brother, Bruce Schmerling, this scholarship is awarded annually to rising seniors who have committed to the course of study necessary to be awarded to a Bachelor of Science in Architecture after four (but not more than five) years of undergraduate study. Each such rising senior in the College of Architecture, regardless of his or her other sources of scholarship or financial aid, is eligible. No application is required. The recipients must demonstrate superior academic performance and scholarship in architecture classes, innovative thought and approaches to the science and art of architecture, and a commitment to the study and understanding of architecture that has and continues to serve as an inspiration to professors and peers alike.

Elizabeth S. Schmerling (AR 03) developed a zeal for architecture as a teenager and pursued that passion throughout her years at Washington University and thereafter, until she lost a valiant battle with cancer in 2005. An extraordinary young woman, Elizabeth was so beloved and admired that the fund her parents and brother established has received an unprecedented number of gifts from other donors as well.

More information

Our brochure, You Can Afford The Best Education, provides more information about financial assistance and financing programs. Applications and information about academic scholarship and fellowship competitions are included in our Scholarships brochure, Academic Scholarship and Fellowship Programs. High school seniors on our mailing list will receive these brochures during the summer. For answers to specific questions, call us at 800.638.0700 or 314.935.6000, or click here.