Make sure you're eligible: you must be a resident of the United States, a minority or disadvantaged high school senior or college freshman, and be planning to study architecture in a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).
Get yourself nominated by your guidance counselor, an architect or someone else familiar with your ambitions and abilities. Call (202) 626-7511 or (202) 626-7327 between mid-September and early December to request the nomination form.
Fill out the application form that will be sent to you once your nomination has been received.
Prepare the other materials, which include an essay, a statement about your disadvantaged circumstances, recommendation letters, transcripts and a drawing.
Notify professors, TAs and employers well ahead of time for any letters of recommendation you need from them.
Send in the application and supporting materials by the January deadline. Apply well before the deadline to avoid the risk of missing it.