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ARB is developing a revised Prescribed Examination to align with its outcomes-based framework for architectural education and training.
The revised examination is intended to provide a route to registration for applicants who do not hold ARB-prescribed qualifications but can demonstrate that they meet the required standard of academic competence.
The previous Prescribed Examination is no longer available. The revised examination is expected to launch in spring 2027.
Information about eligibility, the assessment process and how to apply will be published when the revised examination launches.
Why are we revising the Prescribed Examination?
The previous Prescribed Examination was based on the former Part 1 and Part 2 criteria for architectural education. ARB is revising the examination to align it with its new outcomes-based framework for initial education and training.
The changes are intended to make the examination clearer and more consistent, simplify the assessment process and remove unintended barriers for competent applicants seeking to join the Register.
Consultation report
ARB consulted on proposals for the revised Prescribed Examination between 5 August and 16 September 2026. The consultation sought views on the proposed eligibility requirements, assessment process, supporting guidance and changes to the Registration Rules.
The consultation is now closed. ARB has considered the responses received to inform the development of the revised examination.
Consultation documents
The following draft documents were published as part of the 2026 consultation. They are available for reference but do not constitute final guidance for applicants.
- Draft amendments to the Registration Rules relating to the Prescribed Examination
- Draft Prescribed Examination Policy Scheme
- Draft Eligibility Guidance
ARB will publish the final documents and supporting guidance when the revised examination launches.
When will the revised examination be available?
At launch, ARB will publish detailed information for prospective applicants, including:
- Eligibility: the final eligibility requirements and the qualifications applicants will need to hold.
- Assessment process: the stages of the examination, the evidence applicants will need to provide and how their competence will be assessed.
- How to apply: application instructions, fees, supporting documents and relevant procedures.