Changes to Routes to Registration

ARB will introduce changes to how we confirm that applicants meet the competence standard required for registration as an architect. We are also introducing a new route to registration for applicants who do not have an accredited undergraduate (Part 1) qualification. Alongside this, we are introducing a new Prescribed Examination and a new Readiness for Practice UK (RfPUK) module for international applicants who are seeking to register under one of ARB’s Mutual Recognition Agreements.

We expect the new routes and arrangements to be introduced by spring 2027.

The changes reflect a competence-based approach, in which applicants are assessed on what they know and can do. This allows us to remove unnecessary barriers where competence can already be demonstrated, while maintaining the standards that protect the public. We also want to help international architects registering under a mutual recognition agreement be prepared for practice in the UK.

No. The standard required to register as an architect is not changing. Rather, the new approach provides different ways for applicants to demonstrate that they meet that standard.

The changes are designed to be more proportionate, not easier. Applicants will still need to meet the same standard of competence, but in some cases they will be able to demonstrate this in a way that better reflects their qualifications and experience.

The Registration Assurance Process is a new approach that ARB will use to assess whether applicants meet the required standard of competence for registration. It replaces existing processes and introduces clearer and more structured routes for certain applicants.

The RAP is for individuals whose circumstances are not fully covered by the current system. This includes people who do not hold an ARB-accredited Part 1 qualification, those returning to practice after time away, those who passed their Part 3 more than two years ago but have not registered, and those who have been removed from the Register for not meeting CPD requirements. 

Yes. From spring 2027, applicants with ARB-accredited Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications (for example, ARB accredited qualifications or people who have passed the Part 2 Prescribed Exam) will be able to apply for registration without holding a recognised Part 1 qualification, provided they can demonstrate that they meet the required standard of competence.

This reflects ARB’s move to a competence–based system. Where an applicant can demonstrate their competence through later qualifications or assessment, they will not need to hold a Part 1.

From spring 2027, you will be able to apply through the new process if you can demonstrate that your knowledge and skills are up to date. 

Yes. The process for applying and the evidence you need will change from spring 2027. You can read more about the current requirements on the ARB website. The new process which we will introduce from spring 2027, provides a clearer route for returning to the Register. You will need to show that your competence remains current.

Yes. You will be able to apply to return to the Register once you can demonstrate that you identified the professional development you intend to undertake in the coming year. 

A Personal Development Plan sets out how you will update or maintain your knowledge and skills to meet the required standard. It may be required in some cases to support a return to the Register.

No. A PDP will be required for applicants returning after removal for CPD non–compliance and may be required in some other cases where additional assurance is needed.

We are introducing a new approach that focuses on directly assessing an applicant’s competence against the Academic Outcomes. 

Because of the introduction of the new route to registration for applicants with partial qualifications, we will no longer run the Part 1 Prescribed Exam.  

From October 2026, ARB will no longer offer a Part 1 Prescribed Examination. However, the new Prescribed Examination which will replace the Part 2 Prescribed Examination will continue to be delivered by ARB.

The new examination will assess whether applicants meet the required competences set out in ARB’s Academic Outcomes.

We expect the new examination to be introduced in spring 2027.

You can continue with your plans under the current arrangements. You may also wish to consider how the upcoming changes could affect your route to registration as well as when you want to apply for registration.

Yes, but we have limited spaces left on our Examinations schedule until October 2026. If you are unable to take the Part 2 Prescribed Examination in 2026, you will need to take the new Prescribed Examination in 2027.

The new online RfPUK module will consist of learning components and assessments.  It is designed to support international applicants who are seeking to join the UK Register under one of ARB’s international recognition agreements with their understanding of UK–specific practice requirements. The new RfUKP module will replace the UK Adaptation Assessment. The last UKAA assessments will take place in October 2026 and we will publish details of the new module by Spring 2027. 

The RfPUK ensures that internationally qualified applicants have the local knowledge needed to practise safely and effectively in the UK context.

The RfPUK is for applicants applying through ARB’s international mutual recognition agreement routes, e.g., ARB’s mutual recognition agreements with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards; the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia/New Zealand Registered Architects Board and the Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada.

We expect it to be introduced in spring 2027.

It will cover UK-specific areas such as regulation, professional practice and the legal framework for architects.

Yes, We are working with each of our international mutual recognition agreement partners to review and revise our existing agreements so that they will accommodate ARB’s new pathways to registration. We will provide further updates as each review is completed.

You can continue to apply under the current system. You may also wish to consider whether the new arrangements will affect your plans.

Yes. The current routes will remain in place until October 2026. We anticipate that applicants will be able to apply online from mid-January 2027, with the first exams and RfUKP taking place in spring 2027.

Yes, if we haven’t processed anything. If we have done the checks and started scheduling, we’ll retain a 25% admin fee. If you have taken, and failed, an exam/assessment, no refund is possible. 

Yes. We will publish detailed guidance on eligibility, evidence requirements and how to apply ahead of implementation.