Admission Process
Application Call Deadlines
The Master of Architecture in Collective Housing, MCH, is a postgraduate full-time international professional program of advanced architecture design in collective housing presented by Universidad Politécnica of Madrid (UPM) and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH). After 16 editions, it is rated as one of the best architecture master’s programs by architects and experts.
Next edition will start in March 2027. Applications for MCH2027 ARE OPEN and will be welcomed until 30.01.2027, or until no more vacancies are available. MCH is the first UPM-ETH official postgraduate program. It takes place mainly in Madrid.
MCH has always committed to the highest level of excellence combining teachers of international prestige and a thorough participant selection process in order to make the best out of this course.
(pdf, max. 10 MB). Complusory document.
A sample of their best academic, research and professional projects. This portfolio must be optimized for on-screen visualization (pdf, max. 10 MB). Technical and graphic skills, group work and other achievements are considered. Compulsory document. (20 pages max.)
(pdf, max. 10 MB). Complusory document explaining why you want to join the MCH.
You may submit up to 2 recommendation letter in PDF format (max. 10 MB each). If you choose to provide these letters, please ensure they include the contact information of the person who wrote them.
Not complusory document.
The Academic Committee considers the received applications and selec candidates.
After receiving your portfolio, the Academic Committee will review it.
Selected candidates will then be invited to an online interview with a member of the committee.
The Academic Committee will review all information after the interview and make a decision.
The candidate will receive the decision. If positive, the candidate must pay the reservation fee (1.000€, non-refundable) within 7 days after admission.
Admission Process FAQs
When can I apply?
Applications for MCH 2027 are open until 30 January. We recommend submitting your application as early as possible — places are limited and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning earlier applicants may receive a decision sooner.
How are applications evaluated?
The MCH admissions committee evaluates each application holistically, considering your academic background, portfolio, motivation letter, and English proficiency. There is no single eliminatory criterion — the committee looks for candidates who demonstrate design ability, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine commitment to collective housing as a field.
How long does it take to receive a decision?
After submitting your application, you will receive an automatic confirmation within 24 hours. The review process takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks. If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to an online interview. Final decisions are communicated by email after the interview stage.
What does the interview consist of?
The interview is conducted online with the MCH program directors. It lasts approximately 30 minutes and is held in English. The conversation typically covers your portfolio, your motivation for specialising in collective housing, and your expectations for the program. It is not a technical exam — it is a dialogue to assess your fit with the program and your readiness for the academic year.
Can I apply to more than one edition?
Yes. If you are not admitted in one edition, you are welcome to reapply in future editions. You can also contact the admissions team at info@mchmaster.com to receive feedback on your application before reapplying.
Is there a waiting list?
Yes. In some editions, a waiting list is maintained for candidates who meet the admission criteria but could not be offered a place in the first round. If you are placed on the waiting list, you will be notified and kept informed of any available places.
What happens after I am accepted?
Accepted students receive an official admission letter by email with instructions to confirm their place and information about the enrolment process, tuition payment, and the start of the academic year.