What aspects of an application increase the likelihood of admission?
All elements of the application package are important: grades in undergraduate and other studies, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, portfolio (for architects and landscape architects) and evidence of special skills, experience and leadership. The ideal applicant is someone who has already demonstrated a commitment to improving our living environment, who possesses a strong academic record (as shown by grades and by letters from former professors), who has some professional experience (not necessarily in urban planning) and who has a good command of English and some mastery of other languages (in particular French and Spanish). Volunteer experience and coursework in planning or a related area are also positive elements, as are skills in graphic communication, GIS and other tools of the trade.
