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Becoming an Architect
EXAMINATION
Administered by NCARB, the Architect Registration Examination in (ARE) in the United States is the only part of the Three E’s of architecture that is consistent across all U.S licensing jurisdictions (the states and territories). The ARE is offered electronically at testing centers around the country. Each of the exam’s divisions may be taken in any order at any time by a candidate who has been deemed eligible to test by a jurisdiction. Some jurisdications might have additional requirements (like an additional oral exam/interview).
Candidates are required to pass each division of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) to satisfy the examination requirement. The ARE is administered on a year-round basis. The divisions of the exam are as follows:
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Practice Management
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Project Management
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Programming & Analysis
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Project Planning & Design
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Project Development & Documentation
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Construction & Evaluation
The content of the ARE is based on the knowledge and skills required of a newly registered architect, practicing independently, to provide architectural services. The ARE evaluates an applicant's competence in the provision of architectural services to protect the public health, safety and welfare. For more information about the ARE, refer to NCARB.
Note: ARE 4.0 will be phased out in mid-2018.
Preparing for the ARE
Preparing for the Architect Registration Exam (ARE) is a serious process. You must pass all divisions of the exam in order to become an architect. There are numerous study tools available in the market for you to purchase. However, many architecture programs, architecture firms and chapters of the AIA organize study groups and provide mentors to help you study.
The purpose of the ARE is to test your cumulative knowledge of architecture and professional judgment in topics that were included in a degree program (structural engineering, architectural history, etc.) and through direct experience as an intern in a professional setting (construction documents, materials and methods, etc.).
You will not take all ARE divisions at one time. Therefore, you do not need to prepare for all divisions at once. For many interns, the exam is taken over several years.
Steps for Exam Preparation
Obtain the exam basics: For exam overview and basic information, visit the NCARB website and click and read “Pass the ARE."
Know thyself: Assess your strengths and weaknesses. Gauge and improve your reading speed and comprehension.
Knowledge Base - You are expected to have basic knowledge in many areas within architecture and engineering. Determine which areas need the most work.
Collect your resources: In addition to the books in the reading lists above, purchase or borrow from your firm or the local AIA component an ARE preparation book available from several publishers and companies providing exam prep. The AIA publishes numerous resources to assist emerging professionals.
Develop a study plan: Do you study best in a group setting or self study? Is a holistic or division by division study plan best for you? Contact other candidates to discuss their approach for taking the exam. Increased amount of work experience makes the test easier. You may want to increase your study time for less time spent in an office setting.
Create a timetable for taking the exam: Do not let procrastination prevent you from starting your exam preparation. Create a realistic time frame to study and take the exam.
Look on the exam as a valued personal goal. Earning licensure will add to your professional recognition, usually leads to an increase in income and will allow you greater freedom and additional opportunities in your career.