The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) has a slate of changes that will impact ARE 5.0 exam takers effective August 1st.

The changes include new online application forms made available for those who qualify under Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and/or any English as a Second Language (ESL) candidates. The exam's guidelines will now include information on these applications, in addition to “other policies and resources.” 

The council has made these forms available through My NCARB and says the ARE 5.0 Guidelines also include detailed steps for requesting accommodations through the online forms. 

A new policy governing rescheduling fees for the exam has also been implemented as well. Any first-time candidate applying to reschedule can do so for free, while subsequent requests will require a $50 fee. Additionally, any second or third petitions to reschedule will be required to pay $100. The NCARB says these changes are “intended to ensure that all candidates have access to exam appointment times.”

Additional updates include a previously announced retirement of the Approved Test Prep Provider program as well as the $50 rebate for candidates scheduling an online proctored appointment for the first time. The new guidlines also provide test takers with a clarification on the time frame for receiving their scores, which will now be delivered within seven days of the exam.

The NCARB also recently ended its rolling clock policy for the ARE 5.0. The full amended guidelines for the examination can be found here.