The Architectural Registration Examination (ARE) is the professional licensure examination for individuals aspiring to become licensed architects in the United States. The exam consists of six divisions which include a combination of multiple-choice and alternative item type questions, as well as case studies. In Nebraska, individuals can begin taking the ARE immediately after graduation from a NAAB-accredited program and establishing an NCARB Record. Candidates can register directly with NCARB to sit for the ARE Exam without Board approval. 

To learn more about the ARE exam, please visit NCARB.

No, however, individuals planning to sit for the ARE must first register with NCARB. 

NCARB retired the ARE rolling clock policy on May 1, 2023.  Read more about this change here.

The exams include a combination of multiple-choice, check-all-that-apply, fill-in-the-blank, hotspot, and drag-and-place questions, as well as two case studies.

ARE 5.0 uses case studies to assess your ability to understand multiple pieces of information and make evaluative judgments based on the information. A case study includes a scenario similar to a real architecture project, providing a description of the case study and key information, as well as several additional resources associated with the scenario.  The scenario and resources within a case study will not change from question to question; questions do not build on each other based on previous responses.

You can learn more about the ARE's format here.

The current cost for the six divisions of the ARE, and any other applicable fees through NCARB, is $1,410. To learn more about exam fees, click here.

The ARE is administered at authorized PSI test centers to ensure each candidate receives the same examination experience and meets standard security requirements. To learn more about setting an appointment and taking the exam, visit NCARB.

NCARB will notify you when results are available for viewing via your MyNCARB account. Once all sections of the exam have been passed, you will receive notice from the Board outlining the remaining steps to be taken for your license to be issued.