In 2016, NCARB announced a change to the ARE exam format. The goal is to align the ARE with current practice management, project management, and project design activities in the architecture profession.

The new exam will be launched late 2016, but you have will until June 2018 to pass the ARE 4.0 divisions. Now is a great time to plan and start studying so that you can pass all seven divisions before the exam changes. You can still find study tips from architects who have already taken and passed the ARE. Click here to download a side-by-side chart showing topics covered by the seven ARE 4.0 divisions.

You can visit the NCARB web page to learn more about the upcoming transition to ARE 5.0.

Studying for ARE 4.0

There are no requirements from NCARB regarding the order in which examinees should take the seven divisions. Examinees often choose to assess division subject matter and schedule the exams in order from easiest to most difficult (as ranked by their own experience and knowledge). Others choose to group the divisions by subject matter to maximize study time.

With ARE 5.0 launching in late 2016, NCARB launched the ARE 5.0 Transition Calculator to:

• help you form a personalized plan to pass the ARE
• see how divisions in ARE 4.0 will transition to 5.0
• keep track of your Rolling Clock showing which divisions you’ve passed and when they expire

Get Started Today

To learn more about how to register for the ARE, click here.

Professional Publications, Inc. (PPI) publishes a comprehensive exam review series for the ARE, authored David Kent Ballast, FAIA. Click here to learn more about this best-selling author and how his books can help you prepare to pass.

PPI is committed to helping architects and engineers pass their licensing exams. Visit ppi2pass.com to learn how you can get started today.