Architecture portfolio scheme

Don’t let your ATAR hold you back. Apply for an Architecture course using a portfolio.

We know there’s more to your potential than just a number. That’s why we have introduced the UTS Architecture portfolio scheme, a chance to show us your creativity, passion, and design skills through a collection of your own creative work.

If your portfolio is successful and you fall short of the required selection rank by up to 5 points, you will receive an offer to your eligible preferenced course. 

This is your chance to show us what you’re capable of.

Why choose the UTS Architecture portfolio scheme? 

At UTS, we believe that students are more than their ATAR. The portfolio scheme allows you to: 

• highlight your creativity by displaying your unique design skills and innovative thinking
• demonstrate your enthusiasm by sharing your dedication and commitment to the broad field of architecture
• present your diverse talents by exhibiting a range of abilities that may not be reflected in your academic scores.  

Which courses can I apply for using a portfolio? 

• Bachelor of Design in Architecture
• Bachelor of Design in Architecture Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and Innovation
• Bachelor of Design in Architecture Master of Architecture*
• Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (Honours)
• Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture
• Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture Bachelor of International Studies
• Bachelor of Design in Interior Architecture Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and Innovation

*Only offered to recent school leavers.

What are the requirements for the Architecture portfolio scheme?

Your portfolio should present a variety of your creative work, reflecting your abilities and interests in Architecture, Interior Architecture or Landscape Architecture via originality, conceptual exploration, problem-solving abilities, or visual storytelling. Examples of work could include: 

• sketching, painting, drawing
• digital designs
• photography
• digital modelling
• fabrication.

Your portfolio must:

• include your full name and UAC number on the first page
• not exceed 12 pages
• be A4 landscape or portrait in a single PDF document
• not exceed 20MB.

As part of the application, you must also submit a 200-word written statement that explains why you want to join the selected program, and how the work you are presenting in the portfolio makes you suitable for consideration.

Your portfolio will be assessed on the following criteria:

• Creative thinking: Work that demonstrates creativity via originality, conceptual exploration or development, problem-solving abilities, or visual storytelling.
• Technical skill: Work that demonstrates the applicant’s skills in different media and techniques, such as sketching, painting, drawing, physical or digital modelling, photography, and fabrication.
• Portfolio presentation: A demonstrated ability to compile the portfolio in a clear, visually cohesive, and engaging manner that effectively communicates and showcases the applicant’s work.

Eligibility

1. You must be a domestic applicant (an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or a holder of an Australian permanent resident or humanitarian visa)
2. Preference one of the eligible courses, and
3. Meet UTS course requirements.

How do I apply? 

1. Submit a UAC application: Apply through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) and preference an eligible UTS Architecture course.
2. Prepare your portfolio: Compile your creative work according to the portfolio guidelines.
3. Submit your portfolio: Upload your portfolio online via the UTS application portal by the application closing date.