Application & Progression – Architects Register Admission Exam

Application and progression

Application and Fee Information

Application Deadlines:

Applications for 2025 are now open.

STANDARD ENTRY: Applications will be accepted with Stage 1 submissions up until 15 January 2025

ADVANCED ENTRY: Applications will be accepted until 15 January 2025, with Stage 1 submissions to follow by 26 February 2025

Fee Structure:

STANDARD ENTRY

Application Fee: €1,000 (non-refundable)
Examination Fee for Stage 2 and Stage 3, €9,530.

ADVANCED ENTRY

Examination Fee for Stage 3 and Recognition of Prior Learning Assessment, €4,940.

Payment Details:

Payment deadlines and methods are specified during the application process and instalment plans are available on request.

Progression and Repeat Examinations

Progression Requirements:

For STANDARD ENTRY candidates Exams can be taken in any order, there is no specified sequence. Where candidates are not successful, individual exams in each subject may be repeated.

Withdrawal and Deferral:

Candidates may withdraw or defer their participation in any examination due to extenuating circumstances, in line with ARAE’s Extenuating Circumstances Policy. ARAE reserve the right to only offer repeat examinations where there are sufficient candidates

Repeat Fees:

Fees for repeat assessments are charged per subject.

Completion and Admission to the Register

Result Issue:

Candidates will receive written confirmation of results following each stage.

Admission Process:

Upon successful completion of all stages, candidates can apply to the RIAI for registration. Registration requires candidates to be at least 35 years old and to have demonstrated seven years of relevant experience, which is assessed by ARAE at Stage 1.

Expert Recommendation:

ARAE provides an expert opinion on the candidate’s experience as part of the RIAI admission process.

Disability Support Services

Accommodations:

ARAE offers support for candidates with disabilities or long-term medical conditions, including additional resources or adjustments during assessments.

Eligibility for Support:

Candidates requiring accommodations are encouraged to contact ARAE in advance to arrange appropriate support.

Confidentiality Policy

Candidate Privacy:

Information on candidates is confidential and will not be shared without written consent from the individual.

Data Usage:

ARAE compiles anonymous statistical data for internal development and periodic reporting to the RIAI.

Retention of Records:

Selected samples of work are retained to demonstrate assessment standards and are anonymised for review purposes.

Appeals

Assessment Appeals:

Candidates may appeal an assessment decision on specific grounds within 30 days of receiving results. Appeals are reviewed by an independent Appeals Board.

Note

For detailed policy documents, please contact ARAE or visit the Resources section.