When taking the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), you have the opportunity to choose if you would like to take the exam in person at a PSI test center or in a location of your choice via online proctoring. To help you better prepare for an online-proctored exam, NCARB has clarified the ARE Guidelines instructions around setting up your testing space.

Keep in mind, if you choose to take an online-proctored exam, you are responsible for ensuring your testing setup meets the technical and environmental requirements laid out in the ARE Guidelines and on PSI’s website.

Read the ARE Guidelines

About the Updates

The latest changes to the ARE Guidelines focus on requirements for taking an online-proctored exam and updating language around PSI’s Proctoring Platform, as well as a few additional clarifications. These minor edits are intended to address common issues candidates experience when taking online-proctored exams, and do not impact the exam’s content, format, or fees. 

  • Taking a Test Run: Going forward, you must complete a free PSI test run before taking each online exam division, including any time your testing setup changes. The test run allows you to confirm with a proctor that your setup meets the requirements for online testing. This includes your equipment, internet connection, operating system, applications, and testing environment. Note: NCARB will not issue refunds to candidates who are unable to complete an exam appointment due to technical issues or environmental issues if the candidate did not complete a test run prior to their exam.
  • Meeting Online Proctoring Requirements: NCARB has clarified language to address common issues and questions related to online proctoring requirements, including your technical configuration and testing environment. Please keep in mind your testing space must be clear of items and materials not required for testing. Learn more about setting up your testing space.
  • PSI Proctoring Platform: NCARB has replaced references to “Bridge” with “PSI Proctoring Platform,” which includes both Bridge and PSI’s secure testing browser.
  • Fees: NCARB removed references to specific fees and linked the fees section to NCARB’s website for greater accuracy. Note: Exam fees are not changing at this time.
  • PSI’s Online Proctoring Candidate Privacy Agreement: NCARB replaced PSI’s Online Proctoring Candidate Privacy Agreement with an updated version that adjusted the timeline for storage of exam recordings from 30 to 90 days.
  • Reporting Exam Security Concerns: NCARB clarified confidentiality for individuals reporting exam security concerns through the ARE Security Tip Line.

The updates to the ARE Guidelines outlined above are effective today, October 27, 2025.