Architect Registration Exam - ARE 4.0

The name has changed, the subject matter condensed, and the divisions reorganized. Introducing the ARE 4.0, which according to NCARB is "a change for the better."

 

NCARB believes the ARE 4.0 exam improves upon the 3.1 format by integrating graphic and multiple-choice content. The graphic vignettes remain essentially the same and will be redistributed, while the number of multiple-choice questions will decrease.

For the most part, 4.0 is a reorganization of the components of the ARE.

According to NCARB, the benefits of ARE 4.0 are:
•    Seven divisions instead of nine
•    Reduced number of trips to the test center
•    Better assessment of your knowledge, skills, and abilities
•    Condensed subject matter – you can study for a subject all at once
•    Integration of multiple-choice and graphic content
•    Slightly less testing time

Until June 2009, both ARE 3.1 and ARE 4.0 will be administered.

If you passed any division of ARE 3.1 (or an earlier ARE version) by May 15, 2008, you have until June 2009 to complete your exams in 3.1.  If you have not passed any divisions taken on or before  May 15, 2008, you will start the exam process taking ARE 4.0. 



Which Candidate Are You?

TRANSITION CANDIDATE
You have passed some of ARE 3.1, or an earlier version of the exam, and would like to finish before June 2009. Please read our ARE 3.1 information


INACTIVE CANDIDATE
You are eligible to take the ARE, but did not pass any divisions prior to May 15, 2008. You are automatically transitioned into a 4.0 candidate.


ARE 4.0 CANDIDATE
You began testing after May 15, 2008

 

 

The 4.0 Format

Prior to the administration of each multiple-choice division of the ARE there is a brief tutorial that explains how to move through the test questions. Each division consists of a fixed number of questions given within a maximum time limit. Most Multiple-Choice tests will also include the "fill in the blank" and "check all that apply" question formats that were introduced in 3.1.

  DIVISION

Multiple Choice 

Vignettes

Time

  Programming, Planning & Practice

 85

 1

 3 hrs

  Site Planning & Design

 65

 2

 3.5 hrs

  Schematc Design

 0

 2

 5 hrs

  Building Design & Const. Systems

 85

 3

 4.25 hrs

  Building Systems

 95

 1

 3 hrs

  Structural Systems

 125

 1

 3.75 hrs

  Construction Documents & Services

 100

 1

 3.5 hrs

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Rolling Clock

Candidates must pass all divisions within five years. However, if you have passed one or more divisions by January 1, 2006 your five year period to pass the remaining divisions, begins with the date of the first division passed after January 1, 2006 . If you fail to pass the remaining divisions within the initial five year period, you will get a new five year period begining from the date of the second oldest passed division. For more detailed information go to the,"Rolling Clock" page at ncarb.org.

 
 

ARE Administration

You may schedule any division of the ARE at any time and in any order you choose. The test centers are open six days each week, fifty weeks each year.

 

In December, 2004, NCARB approved a five year "rolling clock" for ARE candidates. The rolling clock was implemented on January 1, 2006. Your five-year clock begins with the first division passed after January 1, 2006. This means that all divisions of the ARE must be passed within the five-year period. NCARB feels that the implementation of the "rolling clock" will strengthen the validity of the exam and reassure the public that the competency requirements for independent practice have been met. For more specifics on these issues visit ncarb.org.

 

For the most accurate information about registration and exam requirements, it is recommended that you contact the registration board or architectural association within the state or province you are seeking your initial license. To download the NCARB 3.1 or 4.0 Practice Software, ARE Guidelines Version 3.1 information booklet, or the ARE 4.0 Study Guides, go to ncarb.org or call them at 202-783-6500. You may also want to check our links page for other helpful sites.

 

 

Practice taking short-hand notes from the program and codes. This critical exercise will save time and result in fewer errors when applying important program information in the vignette.