Bachelor of Arts [BA] (Architectural Studies)
Field of Study:
$45,770 /Yr
The Honours Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies at the University of Toronto is a four-year undergraduate program offered by the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design. The program uses architecture as a lens through which students pursue a liberal arts education, combining design thinking with humanities and science. Students complete two years of core courses in design, history, and technology of architecture, landscape architecture, and urbanism before specializing in one of four streams: Design, History and Theory, Technology, or Comprehensive.
Within two years of entering the labour market, 84% of Architectural Studies graduates are employed with a median salary of CAD 90,500 per year. International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during studies and are eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) valid for up to three years after graduation, enabling them to gain Canadian work experience.
Current Admission Status:
Application deadlines for international students:
- OUAC 105 and University of Toronto International Application Deadline: February 2, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
- One Idea Supplementary Application Deadline: February 16, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
- Housing guarantee deadline: March 31, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
- Why Study Architectural Studies at University of Toronto
- University of Toronto BA Architectural Studies Tuition Fees for International Students 2025-26
- Cost of Living in Toronto for International Students
- Admission Requirements for International Students
- English Language Requirements for International Students
- University of Toronto Rankings for Architecture
- Scholarships for International Students Studying BA Architectural Studies at University of Toronto
- Placement Data and Job Outcomes for BA Architectural Studies Graduates
- Return on Investment for BA Architectural Studies (International Students)
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Study Architectural Studies at University of Toronto
- University of Toronto ranks 1st in Canada and among the top 30 globally across all subject areas according to Times Higher Education 2026 rankings.
- The Design Research Internship Program (DRIP) offers upper-year students paid summer internships with leading Toronto design firms, providing real-world experience in professional practice.
- International students can work on-campus without restrictions and up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular school sessions, helping offset living costs.
- The program emphasizes global perspectives through Studio Abroad opportunities, with recent immersive courses in Athens, Berlin, and Ghana.
- Graduates pursue careers in architecture, landscape design, urban planning, design criticism, media, curatorship, and related creative industries.
University of Toronto BA Architectural Studies Tuition Fees for International Students 2025-26
International tuition for the BA Architectural Studies program is among the highest at University of Toronto due to the specialized nature of design education.
Exchange Rate Note: All INR conversions based on CAD 1 = INR 66.90 as of April 7, 2026. Exchange rates are subject to change.
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Program Fee (Full-time, 4.0+ credits) | 63,570 | 42.54 Lakhs |
| Mandatory Incidental & System Access Fees | 1,988.40 | 1,32,945 |
| University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) | 792 | 52,966 |
| Total Annual Cost (Full-time) | 66,350.40 | 44.40 Lakhs |
Key Fee Details:
- Program fees are charged on a flat-rate basis for full-time students enrolled in 4.0 or more credits per session.
- UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan) is compulsory for all international students and covers medical, dental, and vision care.
- Part-time students (3.5 credits or fewer) are charged per-course fees ranging from CAD 6,357 to CAD 44,499 depending on course load.
- A minimum charge of CAD 338 applies if registration is cancelled after the first day of classes.
Cost of Living in Toronto for International Students
Living expenses in Toronto for international students typically range from CAD 1,800 to CAD 3,000+ per month, excluding tuition. The Greater Toronto Area experiences four distinct seasons, requiring appropriate clothing for temperatures ranging from 30°C (86°F) in summer to -25°C (-13°F) in winter.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (CAD) | Annual Cost (CAD) | Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (shared apartment) | 1,130 - 2,700 | 13,560 - 32,400 | 9.07 Lakhs - 21.67 Lakhs |
| Food & Groceries | 350+ | 4,200+ | 2.81 Lakhs+ |
| Utilities (Hydro/Electricity) | 65+ | 780+ | 52,182+ |
| Internet | 60 - 115 | 720 - 1,380 | 48,168 - 92,262 |
| Phone Bill | 50 - 100 | 600 - 1,200 | 40,140 - 80,280 |
| Transportation (TTC Monthly Pass) | 0 - 143 | 0 - 1,716 | 0 - 1,14,798 |
| Tenant's Insurance | 30 - 50 | 360 - 600 | 24,084 - 40,140 |
| Clothing & Seasonal Wear | 50 - 100 | 600 - 1,200 | 40,140 - 80,280 |
| Entertainment & Social Activities | 200 | 2,400 | 1,60,560 |
| Books & Course Supplies | - | 550/semester | 36,795/semester |
| Total Monthly (Estimated) | 2,000 - 3,200 | 24,000 - 38,400 | 16.05 Lakhs - 25.68 Lakhs |
Annual Total Cost (Tuition + Living): CAD 90,350 - CAD 104,750 (approximately 60.46 Lakhs - 70.09 Lakhs INR)
Accommodation Options for International Students
On-Campus Residence:
On-campus housing is guaranteed for new full-time international students entering their first year if they indicate interest by March 31, 2026. Most international students prefer on-campus residence for the first year due to convenience, community, and included meal plans.
| Residence | Room Type | Annual Cost (CAD) | Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chestnut Residence | Single with Unlimited Meal Plan | 26,202 | 17.53 Lakhs |
| Chestnut Residence | Double with Access 14 Meal Plan | 21,933 | 14.68 Lakhs |
| New College | Single with Unlimited Meal Plan | 20,220 | 13.52 Lakhs |
| Knox Residence | Single with Unlimited Meal Plan | 19,585 | 13.10 Lakhs |
| Trinity College | Single (includes meal plan) | 19,714 - 22,405 | 13.18 Lakhs - 14.99 Lakhs |
| Oak House (Suite Style) | Single, Standard | 29,100 | 19.47 Lakhs |
| CampusOne Student Residence | 3-4 Bed Shared (12 months) | 28,945 - 37,865 | 19.37 Lakhs - 25.33 Lakhs |
Off-Campus Housing:
Private rental apartments near campus typically cost CAD 1,130 - CAD 2,700 per month for shared accommodations. Indian students often prefer shared apartments in neighborhoods like Kensington Market, Chinatown, or near Bloor Street to reduce costs and build community.
Note: On-campus residence fees are NOT included in tuition fees and must be paid separately. Off-campus housing costs are the student's responsibility.
Part-Time Work Opportunities for International Students
International students on valid study permits can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular school sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (winter, summer, spring).
Minimum Wage in Ontario: CAD 16.55 per hour (as of 2026)
Common Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Toronto:
- Retail & Customer Service: CAD 16.55 - CAD 18.50/hour (retail stores, shopping malls, customer support)
- Food Service & Hospitality: CAD 16.55 - CAD 19.50/hour (restaurants, cafes, delivery services)
- On-Campus Employment: CAD 15.00 - CAD 22.00/hour (library assistant, teaching assistant, campus tour guide)
- Tutoring & Academic Support: CAD 18.00 - CAD 25.00/hour (peer tutoring, language tutoring, test prep)
- Design & Creative Freelance Work: CAD 20.00 - CAD 35.00/hour (graphic design, social media content, freelance projects on platforms like Upwork)
Estimated Monthly Earnings (Part-Time, 15-20 hours/week): CAD 1,000 - CAD 1,600 (approximately 66,900 - 1,07,040 INR)
Admission Requirements for International Students
The BA Architectural Studies program is highly competitive, with admission based on academic achievement, supplementary application quality, and demonstrated interest in design and architecture.
Academic Requirements:
- Completion of secondary school diploma or equivalent (e.g., IB, A-Levels, CBSE, ISC for Indian students)
- Minimum overall average in the high-80s (approximately 85-90%) in senior-level courses
- Six senior-level courses required, including English (equivalent to Ontario ENG4U)
- Minimum CGPA of 2.7 with minimum grade of 75% required to continue in the program after Year 1
Supplementary Application:
- One Idea Supplementary Application is mandatory and evaluated by the Daniels Faculty admissions committee
- Application requires submission of portfolio, artist statement, or design work demonstrating creative thinking and visual literacy
- Applicants should demonstrate engagement with design, architecture, or visual culture through examples, essays, or project work
Admission Process:
- Submit application through OUAC 105 (Ontario Universities' Application Centre) or University of Toronto International Application portal
- Provide official high school transcripts and English language proficiency test results (if required)
- Complete One Idea Supplementary Application on JOIN U of T portal
- Receive admission decision via email with JOINid/UTORid and applicant number
- Confirm acceptance and pay deposit to secure admission
English Language Requirements for International Students
English is the language of instruction at University of Toronto, and all international students whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.
Exemptions Available:
- Four or more years of full-time study in a recognized Canadian English-language school
- Four or more years of full-time study in an English-language school in a country where English is the dominant language (USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, etc.)
- First language is French and completed four or more years at a Canadian school
Accepted English Proficiency Tests:
| Test | Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Overall band 6.5, no band below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT (tests on/after Jan 21, 2026) | Overall 4.5, Writing 4.5, Speaking 4.0 |
| Duolingo English Test | Overall 120, Production 120 |
| PTE Academic | Overall 65, no part below 60 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | Overall 180, minimum 170 in each component |
| CAEL | Overall 70, no part below 60 |
Key Points:
- Test results must be sent directly by the testing agency to University of Toronto (institution code 0982-00 for TOEFL)
- Results must be received by the application deadline (February 16, 2026 for supplementary application)
- If you don't meet the minimum requirement but are otherwise admissible, you may be considered for English Language Transition Programs (6 weeks to 8 months)
- A senior-level English course (ENG4U equivalent) is required for admission but does NOT satisfy the English proficiency requirement
University of Toronto Rankings for Architecture
University of Toronto is ranked among the top architecture schools globally and in Canada.
| Ranking Body | Global Rank | Canada Rank | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings (Architecture & Built Environment) | Top 50 | 1st | 2026 |
| Times Higher Education (All Subjects) | Top 30 | 1st | 2026 |
| University of Toronto Overall | 29th | 1st | 2026 |
Note: Course-specific rankings for Architectural Studies are not separately published; overall university rankings reflect institutional excellence across all programs.
Scholarships for International Students Studying BA Architectural Studies at University of Toronto
International students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon admission. No separate application is required for most awards.
| Scholarship | Award Amount (CAD) | Eligibility | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| President's Scholars of Excellence Program | Full tuition + residence support (4 years) | Exceptional academic achievement, leadership | Automatic consideration |
| U of T Scholars Program | Varies (CAD 1,000 - CAD 15,000+) | Outstanding academic average at admission | Automatic consideration |
| Arts & Science Global Scholarship | Full international tuition + incidental fees + UHIP (4 years) | Merit-based, selected international students | Automatic consideration |
| Arts & Science International Undergraduate Entrance Award | Varies (CAD 1,000 - CAD 10,000) | Merit-based, international students | Automatic consideration |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | Full tuition + residence + books (4 years) | Exceptional academic achievement, leadership, nominated by high school | High school nomination required |
| U of T In-Course Scholarships | Varies (CAD 500 - CAD 5,000+) | Merit and/or financial need, available to current students | Apply via Award Explorer tool |
Key Points:
- Over 5,900 in-course scholarships available annually for current U of T students
- Use the Award Explorer tool (awardexplorer.utoronto.ca) to search for scholarships matching your profile
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship requires nomination from your high school; contact your school's guidance counselor
- Financial need may be considered for some awards; complete the International Financial Aid Profile if available
- No dedicated scholarships specifically for Architectural Studies; awards are available across all programs
Placement Data and Job Outcomes for BA Architectural Studies Graduates
Employment Statistics:
- 84% of Architectural Studies graduates are employed within two years of graduation
- Median salary for employed graduates: CAD 90,500 per year (approximately 60.56 Lakhs INR)
- 69% of graduates work in design-related fields or pursue further education in architecture, landscape architecture, or urban planning
Career Paths for Graduates:
- Architecture and Design Firms (design architect, junior architect, design researcher)
- Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning (urban designer, landscape architect, planning consultant)
- Design and Creative Industries (graphic designer, UX/UI designer, creative director, design strategist)
- Media, Criticism, and Curatorship (architecture critic, museum curator, exhibition designer, arts journalist)
- Related Fields (real estate development, construction management, heritage conservation, public policy)
Internship & Work Experience Opportunities:
- Design Research Internship Program (DRIP): Paid summer internships with leading Toronto design firms
- Studio Abroad Programs: Immersive international courses in Athens, Berlin, and Ghana with design-build components
- Design Build Courses: Hands-on projects including infrastructure at Haliburton Forest and public space transformation
Return on Investment for BA Architectural Studies (International Students)
Total 4-Year Cost Breakdown:
| Cost Component | Total (CAD) | Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (4 years at CAD 63,570/year) | 254,280 | 1.70 Crores |
| UHIP (4 years at CAD 792/year) | 3,168 | 2,11,863 |
| Incidental Fees (4 years at CAD 1,988.40/year) | 7,954 | 5,31,781 |
| On-Campus Residence (average CAD 22,000/year) | 88,000 | 58.87 Lakhs |
| Living Expenses (average CAD 30,000/year) | 120,000 | 80.28 Lakhs |
| Total 4-Year Cost | 473,402 | 3.16 Crores |
Post-Graduation Salary Progression:
- Entry-level (0-2 years): CAD 50,000 - CAD 65,000 (approximately 33.45 Lakhs - 43.48 Lakhs INR)
- Mid-career (3-5 years): CAD 70,000 - CAD 90,500 (approximately 46.83 Lakhs - 60.56 Lakhs INR)
- Senior-level (5+ years): CAD 100,000 - CAD 150,000+ (approximately 66.90 Lakhs - 1.00 Crore+ INR)
Break-Even Analysis:
- Average starting salary: CAD 55,000 (36.79 Lakhs INR)
- Total 4-year investment: CAD 473,402 (3.16 Crores INR)
- Break-even period: Approximately 8-10 years post-graduation
- Long-term ROI: Graduates in senior design and architecture roles earn CAD 120,000 - CAD 200,000+ annually, representing strong long-term career growth
Key Insights:
- The program provides strong career outcomes with 84% employment within two years of graduation
- International students gain Canadian work experience through PGWP (up to 3 years), increasing earning potential
- Design and architecture careers offer continuous growth opportunities, with senior roles commanding significantly higher salaries
- Toronto's thriving design and architecture sector provides abundant job opportunities for graduates
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Can international students work while studying at University of Toronto?
Ans: Yes, international students on valid study permits can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular school sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (winter, summer, spring). On-campus employment has no hour restrictions. Part-time work typically pays CAD 16.55 - CAD 22.00 per hour, allowing students to earn CAD 1,000 - CAD 1,600 monthly while studying.
Ques: What is the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) duration for University of Toronto graduates?
Ans: International graduates of University of Toronto are eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) valid for up to three years, depending on the length of their program. The BA Architectural Studies (4-year program) qualifies graduates for a 3-year PGWP, allowing them to work in Canada and gain professional experience after graduation. The PGWP is an open work permit, meaning graduates can work for any employer in Canada.
Ques: Does University of Toronto offer scholarships specifically for Architectural Studies international students?
Ans: University of Toronto does not offer scholarships exclusively for Architectural Studies students; however, international students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships upon admission, including the President's Scholars of Excellence Program, U of T Scholars Program, and Arts & Science Global Scholarship. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (covering full tuition, residence, and books for 4 years) is available but requires nomination from your high school. Additionally, over 5,900 in-course scholarships are available annually for current students through the Award Explorer tool.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $45770 (CAD 63570) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Housing | $5849 (CAD 8123) |
| Food | $4759 (CAD 6610) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $44438 (CAD 61720) |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| OUAC 105 and University of Toronto International Deadline | |
Scores Required

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TOP Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Award amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| International Merit Admission Award | $20,000 | Merit Based |
| University of Toronto International Scholar Award | $40,000 | Merit Based |
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Bachelor of Architecture in Canada: Top Universities, Requirements and Career
Bachelor of Arts in Canada: Top Universities, Cost for Indian Students, and Scope
Top Undergraduate Courses in Canada: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Admissions, Placements & Salaries
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U of T Karta Scholars Program | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$ 720/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,440/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| Business Administration Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| University of Montreal Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 720/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 35,965 /Yr CAD 49,952 /Yr |
| |||
| USD 23,773 /Yr CAD 33,018 /Yr |
| |||
OUAC Application Deadline For 2027 Intake (1st Nov 2027) | USD 41,039 /Yr CAD 56,999 /Yr |
| ||
-- | USD 30,599 /Yr CAD 42,498 /Yr |
| ||
| USD 25,937 /Yr CAD 36,024 /Yr |
|
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Application for undegraduate programs offered at the University of Toronto must be submitted through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre. You can find the link of this centre under the Undergraduate Admission section at the University of Toronto Admission.
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