Please be aware that candidates applying for APE Parts 1, 2, and 3 must ensure that the documents submitted with their application follow the format and order specified in this document. |
2025-26 Timetable and Fees for Architectural Practice Examination
| Session 1 | Session 2 | Fees | |
| APE Part 1 & 2 Application Dates |
Open 18 January 2026 Close 11.59pm, 1 February 2026 |
Open 28 June 2026 Close 11.59pm, 12 July 2026 |
$660 |
| APE Part 2 National Examination Paper |
Tuesday 14 April 2026 | Tuesday 22 September 2026 | $245* |
| APE Part 3 Application Dates |
Open 8 May 2026 Close 5pm, 22 May 2026 |
Open 15 October 2025 Close 5pm, 29 October 2025 |
$470 |
| APE Part 3 Examination by Interview |
June 2026 | November 2025 |
| Session 1 | |
| APE Part 1 & 2 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 18 January 2026 Close 11.59pm, 1 February 2026 |
| Fees | $660 |
| APE Part 2 | |
| National Examination Paper |
Tuesday 14 April 2026 |
| Fees | $245* |
| APE Part 3 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 8 May 2026 Close 5pm, 22 May 2026 |
| Fees | $470 |
| Examination by Interview | June 2026 |
| Session 2 | |
| APE Part 1 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 28 June 2026 Close 11.59pm, 12 July 2026 |
| Fees | $660 |
| APE Part 2 | |
| National Examination Paper |
Tuesday 22 September 2026 |
| Fees | $245* |
| APE Part 3 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 15 October 2025 Close 5pm, 29 October 2025 |
| Fees | $470 |
| Examination by Interview | November 2025 |
* only applicable if you are re-applying within 12 months of initial application.
APE Part 2: National Examination Paper (NEP)
Candidates who have met the eligibility requirements for APE Part 1 are eligible to sit the National Examination Paper (NEP).
When preparing for the NEP, you must refer to the key documents on the AACA website.
The NEP is a scenario-based exam that tests knowledge and application of the relevant performance criteria in the 2021 NSCA. It is a ‘closed book’, remote proctored computer-based assessment comprising 80 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 120 minutes.
Candidates must pass the National Examination Paper before being admitted to Part 3: Examination by interview.
AACA key documents
- 2024 Architectural Practice Examination Handbook
- 2024 APE Information Sheet for Candidates
- 2024 APE Support Material
- 2024 APE Checklist
- 2024 APE Performance Criteria Report (APE Part 1 NSCA Project Matrix)
- 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA)
- 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA) Explanatory Notes
- 2021 NSCA Mapping to 2015 NSCA
- NEP Remote Proctoring FAQs
Other documents
Attend the free briefing webinars
Before you apply for the APE Parts 1 & 2 you are encouraged to attend a free webinar delivered by the NSW ARB Registrar, Dr Kirsten Orr and NSW APE Convenor Ms Jenna Rowe:
| APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Slides |
| APE 2025 Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Record |
| APE 2025 Q & A |
For candidates planning to apply in Session 1, 2026:
 |
2026 APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Tuesday 2 December 2025 5.30pm - 7.00pm |
Register |
For candidates planning to apply in Session 2, 2026:
|
2026 APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Tuesday 19 May 2026 5.30pm - 7.00pm |
Register |
