EXAMINATIONS | ARE & CSE
In addition to fulfilling other requirements on the path to becoming a licensed architect, professional candidates must complete the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), followed by the California Supplemental Examination (CSE).
Architect Registration Exam (ARE)
One of the primary requirements for becoming a licensed architect is passing the Architect Registration Exam (ARE). The exam covers six practice areas: practice management, project management, programming and analysis, project planning and design, project development and documentation, and construction evaluation, preparing you for professional practice in the US.
Group Study Sessions
DON’T GO IT ALONE…
AIA San Diego offers a 16-month training program to complete the ARE; CSE Study Groups are also formed as needed.
Modeled after marathon-training regimens, the AIA has developed a long-term schedule to help you stay on-track. Our group of emerging professionals meets Wednesdays and Saturdays to tackle each of the ARE exams in increments.
The group sets their own study agenda and they take the test together the final week of each session. Working alongside other AIA members can ease the sometimes daunting task of preparing for the exam.
Meet your AIA SD Study Group Coordinator!
Our AIA SD Study group is a supportive community - led and organized by people like you who are going through the exam process themselves!
Jorge Cabrera Alvarez
"I graduated with a M.Arch from the University of Oregon in 2018 and Shortly after moved to San Diego for work and have stayed ever since.
I decided to join the study group to learn from others who were already on the journey of taking the AREs. Eventually, I formed study groups with other emerging professionals nationwide, and when the opportunity to lead the AIA ARE 5.0 group presented itself I took it immediately. I knew it was a great way to commit to my studies and grow as a professional.
Leading the ARE 5.0 study group has also been a positive experience; it’s given me the motivation and tools to actively learn and engage with the study material for the Architecture registration exams.
By having a group to read, study and debate the most important topics of the exams, I gained a deeper understanding of new concepts and ideas that have improved my understanding of the practice of Architecture.
The AIA San Diego chapter ARE 5.0 study group has benefited me and other emerging professionals by providing a learning hub with all study material needed to pass the AREs while giving emerging professionals a point to connect and network with others locally and across the states.
Every time a member of the study group passes a division of the ARE, it's an accomplishment for all. We celebrate, because we know how much time and effort we are investing to pass the exams and become better professionals along the way.
Currently, my main focus is on studying for Practice management, project management and Construction Evaluation. My plan is to pass these exams this year. "
Study Group Details
New group members start at the beginning of each session (approx. every 2 months). The group is currently studying for the ARE 5.0 track.
Cost: $250 for AIA Members; $350 for non-members. This is a one-time registration fee to join the group, it never expires.
What’s Included:
AIASD group connection with other peers
Unlimited access to study group library
You will find books and documents from recommended publishers and sources for ARE 5.0 - AIA Contracts Brightwood & Ballast 5.0 and more
The study material is constantly updated as we go along
Study Zoom sessions - allow you to join no matter where you are!
Includes online access to the QBanks: questions and answers, including answer explanations
9 weeks devoted to each exam
( exceptions apply- see schedule)
Recommended schedule: Study as a group for the first nine weeks, take exams during week ten, take a break in week eleven and repeat!
Register to Join the Group
ARE Resource Library
We offer Kaplan and Brightwood Architecture Education ARE 5.0 Study materials, available for you to check out or use while you prepare for the exams. When you join our study group, you gain access to AIA’s library of Kaplan study guides, Brightwood materials, online exam prep portals, flashcards, and more – for use in-office and/or take-home/check-out.
ARE 5.0 by Kaplan: Each exam division includes Study Guide, Question & Answer Book, Practice Vignettes, Flash Cards.
Building Design & Construction Systems
Building Systems
Construction Documents & Services
Programming, Planning & Practice
Structural Systems
Schematic Design
Site Planning & Design
BRIGHTWOOD ARE 5.0 (2017 edition)
Each exam division includes Study Guide and Flash cards.
Practice Management
Project Management
Programming & Analysis
Project Planning & Design
Project Development & Documentation
Construction & Evaluation
A check-out form and deposit are required.
California Supplemental Exam (CSE)
AIA San Diego Chapter is proud to announce, that in addition to our ARE study groups, we will be hosting CSE study groups! If you have passed all ARE exams, and completed your IDP (or are exempt from IDP), contact the AIA San Diego office at 619-232.0109. Let us help you cross that finish line! Groups start on a non-scheduled basis based on interest in the program.
Cost AIASD Members: $50
Non-Members: $75
For more information, the CA Architects Board recommends reviewing:
