Architect Registration Exam: Everything You Need to Know
Mar 13, 2024
Growthitect Staff
The Architect Registration Exam (ARE) is a comprehensive assessment of an individual's knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture. Administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), the exam is a requirement for obtaining a license to practice architecture in the United States.
The ARE consists of six divisions covering various practice areas, including project management, project development and documentation, and programming and analysis. Completing all six divisions is mandatory for all U.S. jurisdictions as a key step towards obtaining a license. The exam is designed to test an individual's competency in the field of architecture and ensure that they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to practice architecture safely and effectively.
NCARB offers various tools and resources to help individuals prepare for the ARE, including study guides, practice tests, and a demo exam with a digital whiteboard. These resources are designed to help individuals succeed in the exam and obtain their license to practice architecture.
Understanding the ARE
Overview of ARE 5.0
The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is a multi-division exam used to assess an individual's knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture. The current version of the exam is ARE 5.0, which is developed by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). Passing all six divisions of ARE 5.0 is required by all U.S. jurisdictions as a key step towards earning a license to practice architecture.
ARE Divisions
ARE 5.0 consists of six divisions, each focusing on different aspects of thepractice of architecture. The divisions are:
Practice Management
Project Management
Programming & Analysis
Project Planning & Design
Project Development & Documentation
Construction & Evaluation
Each division includes a combination of multiple-choice questions and case studies, which are designed to test an individual's ability to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios.
ARE 5.0 Format
The format of ARE 5.0 is designed to test an individual's understanding of the practice of architecture across the six divisions. The exam is computer-based and consists of a combination of multiple-choice questions and case studies. The exam is administered at Prometric testing centers across the United States.
The NCARB provides practice exams and ARE 5.0 guidelines to help individuals prepare for the exam. Additionally, the NCARB has created an ARE 5.0 community to connect individuals preparing for the exam and to provide support throughout the exam process.
Overall, the ARE 5.0 is a comprehensive exam that tests an individual's knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture. By passing all six divisions, an individual can take a significant step towards earning a license to practice architecture in the United States.
Eligibility and Registration
To become a licensed architect in the United States, candidates must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). However, before taking the exam, candidates must fulfill certain eligibility requirements. This section will cover the eligibility and registration process for the ARE.
NCARB Record and AXP
Firstly, candidates must establish an NCARB Record. An NCARB Record is a comprehensive database that includes a candidate's education, experience, and examination history. Candidates can create an NCARB Record by registering on the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) website.
Secondly, candidates must complete the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), formerly known as the Intern Development Program (IDP). The AXP is a comprehensive training program that provides candidates with the necessary skills and knowledge to become licensed architects. The AXP consists of six experience areas: Practice Management, Project Management, Programming & Analysis, Project Planning & Design, Project Development & Documentation, and Construction & Evaluation. Candidates must fulfill a certain number of hours in each experience area to complete the program.
Jurisdiction Requirements
Each jurisdiction has its own set of requirements for eligibility to take the ARE. Candidates should review the eligibility requirements for the jurisdiction in which they plan to get licensed. They may also need to fulfill education requirements, such as completing a professional degree in architecture from an accredited program.
Scheduling the Exam
Once candidates have fulfilled the eligibility requirements, they can request eligibilities to take the ARE from the jurisdiction in which they plan to get licensed. Candidates must select the division(s) they wish to take and pay the appropriate fees to NCARB. Once eligibilities are granted, candidates can schedule their exam(s) at a Prometric testing center.
In summary, before taking the ARE, candidates must establish an NCARB Record, complete the AXP, fulfill jurisdiction requirements, and request eligibilities to take the exam. By following these steps, candidates can become eligible to take the ARE and take a key step towards becoming a licensed architect.
Preparation Strategies
Preparing for the Architect Registration Exam (ARE) can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation strategies, it can be a manageable process. Here are some key strategies to consider when preparing for the ARE:
Study Materials and Resources
One of the most important aspects of preparing for the ARE is selecting the right study materials and resources. There are a variety of options available, including study guides, online courses, and in-person classes.
Some popular study materials include Kaplan, PPI, Amber Book, and Hyperfine. Each of these resources offers a variety of study materials, including textbooks, flashcards, and practice exams.
Developing a Study Plan
Developing a study plan is crucial to success on the ARE. A study plan should include a timeline for studying, specific goals for each study session, and a plan for review and practice exams.
When developing a study plan, it's important to consider your personal learning style and schedule. Some individuals may prefer to study in short, focused sessions, while others may prefer longer study sessions with breaks in between.
Utilizing Practice Exams
Practice exams are an essential component of preparing for the ARE. They provide an opportunity to test your knowledge and identify areas where additional study is needed.
There are a variety of practice exams available, including those offered by NCARB and third-party providers. It's important to utilize a variety of practice exams to ensure that you are exposed to a range of question types and formats.
In summary, preparing for the ARE requires a combination of study materials, a well-developed study plan, and practice exams. By utilizing these strategies, individuals can feel confident and knowledgeable as they prepare for this important exam.
Exam Day and Beyond
Exam Security and Protocols
The Architect Registration Exam (ARE) is a multi-division exam that assesses the knowledge and skills of candidates seeking architectural licensure. To ensure the integrity of the exam, strict security protocols are followed on exam day. Candidates are required to arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time and must present two forms of identification, including one government-issued ID, to the exam proctor.
During the exam, candidates are monitored by video and audio surveillance to prevent cheating. They are not allowed to bring any personal items into the testing room, including cell phones, bags, and watches. Scratch paper and pencils are provided by the testing center.
Understanding the Score Report
After completing the exam, candidates can view their unofficial score report immediately. The official score report is available within 3-4 weeks after the exam date. The report includes the candidate's performance on each division of the exam, along with a pass or fail status.
Candidates who fail a division of the exam can retake it after a 60-day waiting period. However, the rolling clock limits the time candidates have to pass all divisions of the exam. The rolling clock starts from the date of the first passed division and expires after a certain number of years, depending on the jurisdiction.
Maintaining Licensure
Once a candidate passes all divisions of the exam, they become a licensed architect. However, maintaining licensure requires ongoing education and compliance with state regulations. Licensed architects must complete a certain number of continuing education hours each year to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in practice management, project management, and other areas.
In addition, licensed architects must adhere to ethical standards and follow state regulations regarding the practice of architecture. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in disciplinary action, including revocation of the architect's license.
Ethics and Professional Conduct
Architects are required to follow ethical and professional conduct standards to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public. The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) has developed a Model Rules of Conduct document that serves as a national framework for ethical standards.
Architects who hold the NCARB Certificate are required to complete continuing education courses on professional conduct, including a five-part study of professional conduct that covers both real and fictional misconduct cases. This education is necessary to ensure that architects understand the standards they are legally obligated to follow and to maintain their certification.
Professional conduct standards cover a wide range of topics, including integrity, soundness, and health impact. Architects must manage projects and coordinate with other professionals while ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of the public. They must also comply with all relevant laws and regulations, including building codes and environmental regulations.
Architects must maintain high ethical standards in their professional practices, including avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining confidentiality. They must also be honest and transparent in their dealings with clients, contractors, and other professionals.
In summary, architects must follow strict ethical and professional conduct standards to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public. The NCARB Model Rules of Conduct provide a national framework for ethical standards, and architects who hold the NCARB Certificate are required to complete continuing education courses on professional conduct. By maintaining high ethical standards and complying with all relevant laws and regulations, architects can ensure that their projects are safe, sound, and beneficial to the public.