Architectural Practice Examination (APE)
Review of the AACA Architectural Practice Examination (APE)
The AACA conducts a review of all its processes at five yearly intervals to ensure their continuing relevance. As part of that process a review of the Architectural Practice Examination (APE) is currently underway. Input has been received from a range of stakeholders as the first stage of the Review, as the result of which a discussion paper is currently being prepared. Input on the discussion paper will be sought in the second half of 2013.
If you have satisfied step one of the registration process as outlined in the “Architect Registration” page of this site, the following requirements (comprising step two) must then be taken:
Purpose
The purpose of the APE is to ensure that persons applying to be admitted to the Register of Architects have an adequate knowledge and understanding of the practice of architecture in Australia and a capacity to exercise professional skill.
Portability
As the APE is a national Examination; Boards in every State and Territory accept the results of the AACA APE regardless of where the Examination is undertaken.
How to Apply
Application forms for the AACA Architectural Practice Examination, setting out details of the submission requirements and the applicable fee, are available at any Registration Board office and from their websites. Information on fees associated with Appeals may be obtained from AACA.
Briefing sessions/seminars
Most Registration Boards offer relevant preparatory briefing sessions for the APE. Attendance at Boards’ briefing sessions may benefit Candidates in their preparation for the APE, but attendance is voluntary.
The Boards’ briefing sessions should not be confused with the proliferation of practice courses promoted as preparation for the APE by other organisations; such courses are not endorsed by AACA. It remains the Candidate’s responsibility to ensure currency of any information they reference.
A short presentation, which summarises key elements of the APE process for those who are unable to attend Registration Board briefing sessions, can be accessed on the Publications page.
Structure
The APE is a three part process. When you have satisfactorily met the requirements of all three parts of the APE you must apply to the Architects’ Boards in the State or Territory in which you wish to practice.
APE Part 1
Logbook and Statement of Practical Experience
After you have satisfied the academic requirements for registration, you will be required to undertake a period of practical experience. *See note below.
APE Part 2
National Examination Paper (NEP)
After you have satisfied the practical experience requirements, you will be required to sit the NEP
APE Part 3
Examination by Interview
After you have satisfactorily completed the NEP, you will be required to sit the Oral Examination
APE General Information
General information in relation to the APE, its structure, recent results, and quality assurance processes may be obtained by clicking here.
APE Publications and Reference Documents
A range of publications relevant to the APE are available on the publications page.
Click here for additional references which may also be useful.
*Note: APE Logbook of Experience
On 21 July 2011 the 80 page Logbook was updated. If you have been using a version of the Logbook published prior to that date click here for information about how it may affect you. No action is required if your completed logbook will require 40 pages or less.
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