NCARB’s Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) offers an additional, accelerated pathway to licensure for motivated students seeking to become architects.
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If you’re looking for a mentor during your path to licensure, an architect licensing advisor can be your best resource. Advisors offer advice and answer questions about the education, experience, and exam requirements for licensure in your jurisdiction.
By enrolling in an IPAL option, students in the process of earning an architecture degree can complete the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®) and the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE)® concurrently.
IPAL is incorporated as an optional path within an existing architecture program, allowing architecture schools to integrate licensure requirements into their own curricula. Download the IPAL Program Standards for a full overview of the program, plus resources for advisors, students, and firms.
Since the program launched in 2015, NCARB has accepted 33 programs at 28 schools to participate in the IPAL initiative. As of the 2024-2025 school year, over 800 students have enrolled in IPAL options across the United States. In 2018, several schools saw the graduation of their first IPAL students, including Boston Architectural College, North Carolina State University, and the University of Florida CityLab-Orlando. See the full list of current IPAL programs.
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Please note: Not all jurisdictions accept ARE divisions taken through IPAL options. Learn more about your jurisdiction’s requirements.