FAQs

What can I expect on test day?

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.

What are the requirements to graduate from an IPAL program?

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.

What are the requirements for submitting a translated transcript?

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.

What are the requirements for NCARB certification?

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.

What are the eligibility requirements for the mutual recognition agreement (MRA) with the United Kingdom?

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.

What are NCARB’s operating hours?

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

I’m a licensed architect from a country outside the U.S. How can I pursue licensure in a U.S. jurisdiction?

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.

Is provisional feedback available for both online and in-person exams?

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

Is NCARB pursuing reciprocal licensure with any other countries?

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.

Is NCARB planning to change programs beyond the upcoming AXP and ARE updates based on the Competency Standard?

Yes—NCARB is hoping to reimagine the path to licensure to ensure greater flexibility and accessibility. NCARB’s volunteers will use the competencies defined in the Competency Standard to envision new pathways to become an architect, including expanded options for individuals who don’t hold a degree from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). These changes would not be announced until 2027 at the earliest.