Route P: a new route to registration from spring 2027

In spring 2027 ARB will introduce Route P, a new route to registration for applicants who hold accredited Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications but without an accredited Part 1. 

Route P forms part of ARB’s wider Registration Assurance Process, which modernises routes to the Register and ensures that competent professionals can access registration through proportionate and transparent pathways. 

The standard required for registration as an architect will not change. Route P provides an alternative way for applicants to demonstrate that they meet the required standard of competence. 

Why ARB is introducing Route P 

ARB is introducing Route P to: 

• modernise routes to registration 
• remove unnecessary structural barriers for competent applicants 
• simplify and streamline the registration process 
• improve transparency and consistency across different routes to the Register 

Some applicants already demonstrate the required level of competence through accredited higher-level qualifications and professional experience. Route P recognises this and removes the requirement imposed on existing applicants with partial qualifications to obtain an additional undergraduate qualification.

Who Route P is for 

Route P is intended for individuals who: 

• hold an accredited Part 2 qualification, and  
• hold an accredited Part 3 qualification, but  
• do not hold an accredited Part 1 qualification.  

This includes applicants whose earlier academic pathway differs from the traditional Part 1–Part 2–Part 3 structure but who have nevertheless demonstrated competence through later accredited qualifications and professional practice. 

What this means if you are planning to apply for the Part 1 Prescribed Examination 

If you are planning to apply for the Part 1 Prescribed Examination, you may wish to review whether this will still be necessary and whether you will be able to use the new Route P instead. 

 Applicants who do not hold an accredited Part 1 qualification may still apply for the Part 2 Prescribed Examination during 2026. Passing the Part 2 Prescribed Examination will allow you to make use of Route P once the new arrangements come into force. 

 Further guidance on eligibility, evidence requirements and how to apply through Route P will be published ahead of implementation. 

Timing 

ARB expects Route P to come into effect in spring 2027. If you wish to make an earlier application to join the Architects Register you can follow the existing routes, subject to Prescribed Examination availability. 

During 2026 we will: 

• publish detailed applicant guidance 
• confirm application requirements 
• updateourRegistration Rules  
• provide further information for individuals currently considering the Prescribed Exam