On April 27, 2026, NCARB will implement several changes to the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), including minor adjustments to some exam objectives and formatting adjustments to case studies. NCARB experts recently led a webinar to explain all the changes and respond to questions from licensure candidates and architects.
Here are answers to some of the top questions we’ve received.
What exactly is changing with the ARE?
The changes include:
- Adjustments to exam objectives: Minor updates to 12 of 91 exam objectives to better align with NCARB's Competency Standard for Architects.
- Refreshed case studies: Each case study will feature fewer total resources and fewer items per individual case study—reducing exam loading times as well as time spent reviewing case study resources during the exam.
The changes will not impact the ARE’s overall division structure, number of items per division, or testing time per division. An updated version of the ARE 5.0 Guidelines that reflects these upcoming changes to the exam will be available in January 2026.
Will I need to change my study strategy or get new study materials?
No—the objective and case study changes are minor, so you can continue using your existing study materials. The main difference you may notice will be in the case study format, which is intended to be more efficient for candidates.
Should I wait until after April 2026 to start taking exams?
If you're prepared to start testing, feel free to begin scheduling your exams. NCARB does not expect these changes to affect how you prepare for the exam, and any divisions you've already passed will not be impacted by the changes.
Will there be updated practice exams?
NCARB will release updated practice exams in February 2026. After the updated practice exams are released, you'll be able to access both versions of the practice exams—one reflecting the current exam format and one reflecting the upcoming changes.
Will the exam still be called ARE 5.0?
Yes, the exam will remain ARE 5.0. NCARB will notify all candidates well in advance if there are any changes to the exam version or name.
Will this change impact my previously passed divisions?
No—any divisions you've already passed, including divisions reinstated through the retirement of the former rolling clock policy, will not be impacted.
What if I fail a division before April 27 and need to retake after the changes go into effect?
If your retake falls on or after April 27, 2026, you'll take the updated version of that division. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with the new case study format and updated objectives prior to retesting.
Still have questions? Contact us.