Intern Exam Resources

NCARB Architect Registration Examination (ARE) Information:

ARE 4.0 Divisions

The ARE currently consists of seven divisions that can be taken in any order. Exams include a combination of multiple-choice, check-all-that-apply, and fill-in-the-blank questions and graphic vignettes. Individual exam guides and exam practice programs are available in the Preparing for the ARE section.

Programming, Practice & Practice

The application of project development knowledge and skills relating to architectural programming; environmental, social, and economic issues; codes and regulations; and project and practice management. [more]

Site Planning & Design

The application of knowledge and skills of site planning and design including environmental, social, and economic issues, project and practice management. [more]

Building Design & Construction Systems

The application of knowledge and skills of building design and construction, including environmental, social, and economic issues, project and practice management. [more]

Schematic Design

The application of knowledge and skills required for the schematic design of buildings and interior space planning. [more]

Structural Systems

Identification and incorporation of general structural and lateral force principles in the design and construction of buildings. [more]

Building Systems

The evaluation, selection, and integration of mechanical, electrical, and specialty systems in building design and construction. [more]

Construction Documents & Services

Application of project management and professional practice knowledge and skills, including the preparation of contract documents and contract administration. [more]

Please visit NCARB’s website to download the ARE Guidelines and Practice Programs for each ARE Division.

Study Materials Available at the AIBC for ARE 4.0:

Programming, Planning, and Practice

Portfolio (Kaplan):
(2 copies)

  • Kaplan Study Guide (2009);

  • Questions & Answers Book;

  • Practice Vignettes

Binder (Ballast):  ARE Sample Problems + Practice Exam:
(1 copy)

  • Each binder includes a copy of ARE in a Flash – Rapid Review of Key Topics

Flash Cards (Kaplan)         
(2 copies)

Structural System

Portfolio (Kaplan):              
(2 copies)

  • Kaplan Study Guide (2009);

  • Questions & Answers Book;

  • Practice Vignettes

Binder (Ballast):  ARE Sample Problems + Practice Exam
(1 copy)

  • Each binder includes a copy of ARE in a Flash – Rapid Review of Key Topics

Flash Cards (Kaplan)                   
(2 copies)

Building Design & Construction Systems

Portfolio (Kaplan):
(2 copies)

  • Kaplan Study Guide (2009);
  • Questions & Answers Book;
  • Practice Vignettes

Binder (Ballast): ARE Sample Problems + Practice Exam 
(1 copy)

  • Each binder includes a copy of ARE in a Flash – Rapid Review of Key Topics

Flash Cards (Kaplan)                   
(2 copies)

Construction Documents & Services

Portfolio (Kaplan):              
(2 copies)

  • Kaplan Study Guide (2009);

  • Questions & Answers Book;

  • Practice Vignettes

Binder (Ballast):  ARE Sample Problems + Practice Exam 
(1 copy)

  • Each binder includes a copy of ARE in a Flash – Rapid Review of Key Topics

Flash Cards (Kaplan)               
(2 copies)

Schematic Design

Portfolio (Kaplan):              
(2 copies)

  • Kaplan Study Guide (2009);

  • Questions & Answers Book;

  • Practice Vignettes

Binder (Ballast):  ARE Sample Problems + Practice Exam 
(1 copy)

  • Each binder includes a copy of ARE in a Flash – Rapid Review of Key Topics

Flash Cards (Kaplan)                   
(2 copies)

Site Planning & Design

Portfolio (Kaplan):              
(2 copies)

  • Kaplan Study Guide (2009);

  • Questions & Answers Book;

  • Practice Vignettes

Binder (Ballast):  ARE Sample Problems + Practice Exam 
(1 copy)

  • Each binder includes a copy of ARE in a Flash – Rapid Review of Key Topics

Flash Cards (Kaplan)         
(2 copies)



*Workbook: Solutions: Understanding the Graphic Divisions of the Architect's Exam
(3 copies)
Author: Norman K. Dorf, AIA

*This book is highly recommended as a resource to help you to prepare for the graphic vignette portions of the exams.

ARE Review Manual (Ballast):            
(2 copies)

This guide contains over 50 chapters with a complete and comprehensive review of the topics covered on the 7 divisions of the ARE 4.0. 

Architectural History (Kaplan)          
(2 copies)

Please note:
These materials are available to AIBC interns. A limit of 2 binders or 1 exam portfolio per intern. All materials are available for a 1 week period and must be returned intact or a replacement fee will be charged. Please contact the AIBC reception desk at frontdesk@aibc.ca or by calling 604.683.8588 ext. 0. If you are interested in purchasing your own copy of these materials please return to the first page of Intern Architects section and click on the link.