2026 Application Submission Guidelines:
The 2026 Design Assembly will take place from May 30th - June 7th on Squam Lake in New Hampshire.
Timeline:
Applications are Due: March 1, 2026
Applicant Notification of Admission Decision: March 15, 2026
Acceptance, Waiver, and Payment Due, if accepted: April 1, 2026
Design Assembly is open to current students and recent graduates from all undergraduate and graduate schools, regardless of major or degree. No experience with design or construction is necessary. The program fee for Design Assembly 2025 is $1,800.00 (Middlebury College students see below). All instruction, housing, meals, design supplies, construction tools and materials, and other costs of the program, between arrival on the first day and departure on the last day, are covered by the program fee. Participants are responsible for their own travel to and from central New Hampshire, and any accommodations before or after the program.
Applicants are encouraged to inquire with their home institutions about possible funding assistance. Past participants have secured academic grants, internship funding, and other forms of financial aid.
Middlebury College applicants: Donors have established scholarship funds to subsidize a portion of your program fee. Email info.designassembly@gmail.com for details.
Applicants should be aware that Design Assembly will take place in a rugged, remote location. Participants will need to sign a Release and Indemnity Agreement, and will be asked to disclose any allergies or special dietary requirements, before the program begins.
To Apply:
Please explain below in the essay response section why you would like to participate in Design Assembly 2025, and describe any background, skills, or interests that you would contribute to this unique team experience. Note that the program is open to students in all fields, and no design or construction experience is necessary. Design Assembly is looking for students who will bring strong work and team ethics, an appreciation of the built and natural environments, and a commitment to community. Please help our admissions committee by writing clearly and personalizing your essay as much as possible. Authenticity is more important than length.
Complete all of personal detail sections.
Applicants are welcome to submit supporting materials such as a portfolio, reference letters, etc.
Click submit!
If you have any trouble submitting your application or have other questions please reach out to info.designassembly@gmail.com and we will get back to you shortly!
Application Form