The Broadly Experienced Architect (BEA) Program and the Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA) Program are two distinct NCARB programs created to allow U.S. licensed architects who do not hold a professional architecture degree from a National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) accredited program and foreign architects who do not hold a license to practice architecture from one of the state registration boards to apply for NCARB certification.
Many architects apply for an NCARB Certificate to seek reciprocal registration in other jurisdictions. Requirements for reciprocal registration vary between jurisdictions and not all jurisdictions accept an NCARB Certificate based on the BEA or BEFA programs for reciprocal licensing. It is important for each BEA and BEFA applicant to confirm specific registration requirements, including reciprocity requirements, with the individual jurisdiction in which they would like to be licensed.
Broadly Experienced Architect (BEA)
Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA)
Requirements for Canadian Architects
Education GuidelinesUpdated January 2012! The Education Guidelines provide a general overview of the education requirement for NCARB certification, and explains how architects who do not hold a professional degree in architecture from a NAAB-accredited program can satisfy this requirement.
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The BEA ProgramAn easy-to-use reference brochure outlining the process to apply for NCARB certification through the Broadly Experienced Architect (BEA) Program.
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The BEFA ProgramForeign architects are eligible to apply for an NCARB Certificate through the Broadly Experience Foreign Architect Program. The BEFA process requires establishment of an NCARB Record, preparation of a dossier to demonstrate experience, and a personal interview.
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Mobile YouBe ready for opportunities in every economy—find out the benefits of NCARB certification.
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Old BEA Process The BEA Program is a multi-step process. You must have an NCARB Record, have your education evaluated, assemble an education dossier, and complete an interview. The final submission deadline for this process is 1 December 2011. [more]
BEFA Process Overview The BEFA Program is a multi-step process. You must be eligibile, have an NCARB Record, assemble an experience dossier, and complete an interview. [more]
BEA Fees Fees associated with the BEA Program. [more]
NCARB Board of Directors Approves Changes to the NCARB Education Standard NCARB's Board of Directors voted to approve changes to the NCARB Education Standard. The changes will go into effect 1 January 2010. [more]