From consolidated content areas to revised testing times, ARE Version 3.0 incorporates a number of evolutionary improvements that were first identified in the Architectural Practice Analysis Study conducted during the year 2000. Most importantly, the Practice Analysis validated the format and content of the current exam. ARE Version 3.0 acts upon study recommendations that increase the exam's relevancy. While ARE Version 3.0 is not a major overhauling of the exam, it is an effort to include more recent topics while adjusting the emphasis of focus in other areas. In order to eliminate redundancy, some ARE content areas are shifting; a few others are being strengthened; and a few new content areas are being introduced. What does this mean for ARE candidates? The most obvious changes are fewer questions in each multiple-choice division and the elimination of two graphic vignettes.
Here is a breakdown of some specific changes included in ARE Version 3.0:
Multiple-Choice Divisions
Graphic Divisions
The newly revised and updated publication, ARE Guidelines, provides additional details about changes to exam content and administration. Candidates may download the publication from the NCARB web site (www.ncarb.org).
The ARE is administered exclusively on computer at testing centers around the United States and Canada. Most of these centers are open six days a week, fifty weeks a year. Once approved by a state or provincial registration board, you may take the exam divisions in any order, at any time and location you choose.
The ARE includes nine divisions, divided to two general groups:
Multiple-Choice Divisions
The Multiple-Choice Divisions consist of all multiple-choice questions. The Graphics Divisions require the candidate to create a solution, graphically, for a number of vignettes.
Here are the question and time breakdowns for the Multiple-Choice Divisions:
| Multiple-Choice Divisions | Questions | Time Limit | Sched. Appt. Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | 105 | 2.5 hrs | 3 hrs |
| General Structures | 85 | 2.5 hrs | 3 hrs |
| Lateral Forces | 75 | 2 hrs | 2.5 hrs |
| Mechanical and Electrical Systems | 105 | 2 hrs | 2.5 hrs |
| Building Desing/Materials and Methods | 105 | 2 hrs | 2.5 hrs |
| Construction Documents and Services | 105 | 3 hrs | 3.5 hrs |
No, you should definitely answer every question--there is no penalty for wrong answers. If you don't know, make your best guess.
The Graphics Divisions consist of 15 vignettes. The exam is administered in the following blocks. Note that the times given for each vignette are recommended, not mandatory; between breaks, you may use your time as you deem necessary.
Site Planning: Scheduled appointment time, 3.75 hrs
No. Even if you are experienced with a CADD program, the drawing software you will use during the exam will be different. Each of the Graphics Divisions begins with a 30-minute tutorial designed to familiarize you with the drawing tools.
No--bring nothing. On the General Structures division and the Mechanical and Electrical Systems division, you will be able to access supplied reference material on your computer screen. This material includes information that may be helpful in answering questions in these divisions.
Yes. You must bring your own scientific calculator for use on the exam. The calculator must be non-printing, non-programmable, and non-communicating. The test center may refuse the use of any calculator that has any of these features.
The ARE uses both customary US units (inch-pound) and SI units (metric). Most questions in the Multiple-Choice Divisions use both types of units, enabling you to chose the system you prefer. Pick one system and stick to it; conversions have been rounded for convenience, so trying to convert from one system to the other may result in wrong answers.
For the Graphic Divisions, you have the opportunity to chose which system of units you wish to use. Once you have made your choice, you can't change your mind during the exam. All dimensions and references to standards will be displayed in the units you have selected.
The NCARB site has additional information about the exam.
After your state board has declared you eligible for the exam, NCARB's consultant, the Chauncey Group International, will send you detailed information about scheduling. At that time, you may call one of the test centers to schedule the ARE.
ARE Pass Rates by Division (all examinees)
| Multiple-Choice Divisions | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Design | 76% | 75% | 77% | 77% |
| General Structures | 75% | 73% | 73% | 77% |
| Lateral Forces | 76% | 77% | 92% | 93% |
| Mechanical and Electrical Systems | 68% | 67% | 74% | 74% |
| Building Design/Materials and Methods | 77% | 76% | 86% | 88% |
| Construction Documents and Services | 77% | 79% | 85% | 86% |
| Graphic Divisions | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2001 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Site Planning | 73% | 71% | 70% | 68% |
| Building Planning | 63% | 64% | 68% | 68% |
| Building Technology | 66% | 63% | 65% | 67% |
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