Hello,

No, you cannot join B.Arch 2nd year even after getting diploma certificate. but you will be having good knowledge and depth in the subjects and topics which will make you lead in future, if you join B.Arch after your diploma. You need to tstart the course from 1st year itself.

B.Arch does not have lateral entry unlike B.Tech. You have to join the first year and hence it cannot be a lateral entry. The confusion comes from diploma holders who assume that it is just like B.Tech where admissions are allowed in the second year ie 3rd semester.There is no lateral entry in B.Arch. Admissions are to the first year B.Arch programme. However, diploma holders are eligible to apply along with 10+2 candidates. So you can choose any college and apply.

Good Luck!