The Mel Ferris Scholarship provides financial assistance to university-level architectural students enrolled in accredited schools of architecture in California who have demonstrated financial need and exemplary academic and design achievements.

This scholarship is awarded in three tiers:

• First Place: $5,000
• Second Place: $4,000
• Third Place: $3,000

Additionally, each California NAAB accredited school of architecture will receive $500 to support student scholarship.

Applications are due August 7, 2025 by 11:59pm PT

• Applicants must be enrolled in a NAAB accredited school of architecture in California.
• Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
• Diversity and inclusion are encouraged, but identification as a member of a minority group is not required to be considered for an award.
• Must have completed the FASFA.
• Must be a student in the 2025-2026 academic year.

A transcript (official or unofficial) must be uploaded as well as the FASFA Student Aid Index (SAI) cover page.

Check out this resource for tips and examples of resumes and letters of nomination/recommendation.

Questions? Please contact Ashley Taylor, Awards Program Coordinator: ataylor@aiacalifornia.org