IAAC Colette Fund

The Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia is proud to introduce the IAAC-Colette Fund, an initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of African architects.

Beginning in 2023, the Colette Fund became a permanent private fund within the Institute, providing financial support to deserving candidates from Africa interested in pursuing a Postgraduate in 3D Printing Architecture (3DPA) in Barcelona, Spain. The fund’s goal is to offer educational opportunities focused on 3D printing with natural materials and its applications in construction.

Coverage

The Colette Fund covers 100% the tuition fees for up to two (2) students, researchers, or professionals from Africa who wish to participate in IAAC’s Postgraduate in 3D Printing Architecture (3DPA).

The fund exclusively covers tuition costs. Visa processing fees, travel, and living expenses in Barcelona are not included. Candidates must secure their own funding for travel and accommodation in order to participate in the programme.

Eligibility

Hold a passport from an African country.
Possess a Higher Education Degree equivalent (preferably a master’s degree) in fields related to Architecture, Design, Engineering, or Material Science.
Candidates without a master’s degree must demonstrate experience in the following areas to be considered for the 3DPA programme:
Possess knowledge in 3D modelling (e.g., Rhinoceros or equivalent) and Computational Design (e.g., Grasshopper 3D or equivalent).
Possess knowledge in Digital Fabrication, ideally with experience in Laser Cutting, 3D Printing (FDM), and CNC Milling.
Demonstrate experience in design for Construction, ideally with experience in the construction industry and building sites.
Applicants must meet the minimum admission criteria established by IAAC
Applicants must have submitted an application to the Postgraduate in 3D Printing Architecture programme.

Application Process

All candidates must complete the regular application process for the Postgraduate in 3D Printing Architecture (3DPA) via the IAAC Application Portal. The following documents are required:

Letter of Intent written in English.
A Portfolio showcasing samples of the candidate’s work.
CV (Curriculum Vitae) or resume.
Two (2) professional or academic recommendations, written in English.
A scanned copy of the candidate’s bachelor’s diploma.
A copy of the candidate’s valid passport.
Additional scholarship document (see below)

Additionally, applicants must submit a document outlining their vision for 3D Printed, Sustainable Architecture. Format: A4 PDF, max 2 pages, up to 5MB.

Important: A €50 non-refundable application fee is required to submit your application.

Selection Criteria & Evaluation Process:

Candidates will be evaluated by an academic committee composed of 3DPA programme directors, faculty, and industry professionals specialising in 3D printing in architecture.

The committee will evaluate the submitted documentation, considering:

Interest in sustainability in construction.
Interest in new technologies in architecture.
Social approach to architecture.
Evaluation of the applicant’s motivation.
Design skills.

Candidates with the highest evaluations will proceed to the second stage, consisting of an interview via videoconference with the academic committee.

Successful applicants will be notified of their selection for a scholarship and the amount of the scholarship in their acceptance letter.

Enrolment and Agreement

Selected candidates must accept and enrol in the programme by signing a scholarship agreement before April 30, 2025. If a candidate does not enrol by the due date, the next highest ranked applicant will be awarded.

Past Winners