FAQs

You’ll need a well-lit, private room, free from distractions and clutter (no adults, children, or pets can be present); high-speed internet connection; live audio and visual feed; a laptop or desktop that meets current system requirements; a webcam; ability to download the secure testing browser onto your computer; a smartphone to use as a secondary camera; and at least a 19" monitor. Learn more.

On your appointment day, be ready to arrive at the test center (or check in for online appointments) 30 minutes early, present a valid photo ID, participate in security procedures, and leave your personal items outside the testing room. Learn more about what to expect.

In addition to passing all of your architecture program's required coursework, IPAL graduates must take all six of NCARB’s free divisional practice exams and complete at least 75% of AXP at the time of their graduation, with experience documented across all six experience areas. Experience gained prior to enrolling in an academic degree program or between academic programs can be applied to the requirement.

If your university is unable to provide your transcript in English, ask the university to forward the official transcript to a translation service, and have the translation service send the original transcript, the English translation, and a completed Translator Statement of Confirmation Form directly to NCARB. Read more. 

Architects interested in earning a Certificate will need to meet NCARB’s education, experience, examination, and registration requirements. Details about these requirements can be found in the Certification Guidelines.

To be eligible for licensure through the MRA with the United Kingdom as a U.S. architect, you must be licensed in good standing in a participating U.S. jurisdiction and have an active NCARB Certificate granted through the standard path to certification. You must also have the right to work in the locality where you are seeking registration.

NCARB’s office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET, except federal holidays.

If you are actively registered to practice architecture in a country outside of the United States, you can pursue licensure through our International Architect Path to certification. Once you hold an NCARB Certificate, you can use that credential to establish your license in a specific U.S. jurisdiction. Note: not all U.S. jurisdictions accept the Certificate for initial licensure.

Yes, the option to view provisional feedback is available for online and in-person exams.

We are always seeking new opportunities for our Certificate holders by facilitating arrangements between international licensing authorities with a similar path to becoming an architect.