studies of architecture in France

Hello,

I am new on this news group, so please apologize if I am not on the right one !

My question concerning architecture studies in France (I don't know if there is any architect from France here but I try !) :

I am 30 years old and I've worked for 3 years for a steel producer. I am interested in changing job and to studying architecture. In France, these studies are pretty long (6 years). Could anybody that knows something about these studies in France tell me if : - it is not totally crazy and stupid to restart architecture studies when 30 years old - it is not too late to start an architect carreer - there is any possibility to be financed during studies ?

Thanks a lot for your help.

Best regards

Eric Carioli Technical Engineer Stainless steel producer

Hi,

Are you in France right now? Do you speak french? If so, there are centres where you can get information about architecture studies. (centres d'information et orientation or sth. like that). Each university has also an information center. I'm afraid that I can't give you much more information. I'm 24 and it would also be my dream to be an architect, but unfortunately there are many reasons not to do it. -Long studies -Weak average revenue -NO governmental aid (for these you have to be under 27 and they are weak anyway)

But if you can work during your studies you may be able to finance them. It will be hard but it is possible. It's also important to mention that they don't admit everybody. In Strasbourg, for example, they take only 1/4. But in Paris, almost everybody can enter architecture schools.

You may also try to do it in less than 6 years (they are possibilites to validate professional experience)

*There is also the possbility to enter a school named ENSAIS (in Strasbourg) where it takes only 4 years (but there is an entry competition, you can ask them to send you a copy of the last competition)

*You may also try to do sth. related or similar to architecture-like industrial design for example (ENSCI, Paris)

As I said, I'm in a similar situation and I can understand you. I really wish you the best of luck.