ARE® 5.0 is a multi-part (or division) exam designed to test your knowledge and skills regarding the practice of architecture. To start the exam, you’ll need to select a jurisdiction you’d like to receive a license in and receive eligibilities to test in from that jurisdiction. You’ll also need an active NCARB Record. Learn how to set up exam eligibilities and schedule a division, plus get familiar with important exam policies you should know before you start testing.

What is ARE 5.0?

ARE® 5.0 features six divisions organized around the progression of a typical architecture project and current practice. The divisions reflect the same areas outlined in the AXP. The divisions can be taken in any order and include a combination of multiple-choice, check-all-that-apply, hot spot, and drag-and-place questions (called items), as well as case studies. Learn more about the exam’s format in the ARE 5.0 Guidelines.

Using Your NCARB Record

To take the ARE, you’ll need an active NCARB Record. Within your NCARB Record, click on the “Exams” tab to:

Exam Eligibility

Before you can schedule an appointment to take an ARE division, you will need to select a jurisdiction in your NCARB Record and receive eligibility to test from that board. Each jurisdiction sets its own rules regarding when you're eligible to take the ARE—in most cases, this is after you meet the board’s education requirement. Explore your jurisdiction’s requirements before requesting eligibility. Once you are eligible, you can schedule an exam appointment.  

If you’re not sure if you have eligibilities to test, you can view your eligibility information in your NCARB Record.

Understanding Exam Policies

Before taking the ARE, you should become familiar with our exam policies. These include:

Detailed explanations of all ARE 5.0 policies can be found in the ARE 5.0 Guidelines.