ARE candidates have the flexibility to test online, at a test center, or a combination of both options. Whether you test online or in person, the exam's policies, security protocols, tools, and navigation are the same for all candidates.
Below, learn about the expectations you need to meet for testing at a physical PSI test center, or testing remotely in an online-proctored appointment.
What to Expect for an In-Person Exam Appointment
PSI maintains an updated list of test center closures and reopenings due to adverse weather or other factors, as well as information related to COVID-19 testing procedures. Be sure to confirm that your test center is open before leaving for your appointment.
When testing at a physical PSI test center, you should be ready to:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early
- Review and sign PSI’s security agreement
- Present a valid photo ID (the name on the ID must match the name your division is scheduled under, and the ID must include your signature)
- Store your personal items in a locker or secure storage bag
- Complete a security screening, which includes being scanned with a hand-held metal detector wand
For more details on this process, including a full list of accepted forms of ID, see the ARE 5.0 Guidelines. The video below provides more information on the test center experience.
What to Expect for an Online Appointment
Before every online-proctored appointment, you must take a free test run appointment to ensure that your testing setup meets NCARB and PSI's requirements. Be sure to confirm your technical requirements—such as operating system and screen resolution—before scheduling your exam. Learn more about technical requirements for online-proctored exams.
When testing with PSI via online proctoring, you should be ready to:
- Check in at least 30 minutes early
- Set up your secondary camera device
- Upload a valid photo ID (the name on the ID must match the name your division is scheduled under, and the ID must include your signature)
- Have your picture taken
- Complete a security screening
- Present a 360-degree view of your testing area
- Leave personal items outside the secure, online-proctored area
Technical Difficulties
IIf you see an error message or experience a computer problem while you’re taking the exam, let the test center staff or online proctor know immediately. Do not clear the error message. If the technical difficulties cannot be resolved quickly, your exam will be rescheduled at no cost. PSI also offers a technical support page for its online proctoring platform.
If you have any testing concerns after your appointment, be sure to file a report with the test center administrator/online proctor AND contact us in writing immediately to let us know. Do NOT wait until you receive your test results to contact us. Concerns must be received within 15 days of your appointment date.
Testing Accommodations
Do you have a medical condition or situation that requires accommodations? NCARB is committed to ensuring the availability of reasonable ADA accommodations by making feasible modifications to our examination procedures for candidates with documented conditions, including pregnancy and breastfeeding. NCARB also offers accommodations for candidates who speak or read English as a second language. Learn how to apply for accommodations.
IMPORTANT: Accommodations must be approved prior to scheduling an exam appointment.
In order to protect exam security, maintain the validity of the exam, and meet the overall delivery capabilities of the ARE, there are limits to the accommodations that NCARB and PSI are able to provide. Common examples of reasonable accommodations include additional breaks, extended testing time (up to 50 percent longer), and testing in a separate room within the test center.
Access a full list of pre-approved medical devices and other personal items.