Architectural Practice Examination (APE) - How to Apply Online
About the APE
Everyone seeking registration as an architect in Australia is required to successfully complete the APE unless exempted through a mutual recognition agreement, eligible overseas assessment process or the AACA Experienced Practitioner Assessment.
The APE is a national competency-based assessment in accordance with the 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (2021 NSCA). The 2021 NSCA identifies the skills, knowledge and capabilities required for the general practice of architecture in Australia.
The APE ensures that individuals who are admitted to a register of architects in any state or territory in Australia have an adequate knowledge and understanding of the practice of architecture in Australia and the capacity to exercise professional skill.
The APE is conducted twice each year and comprises 3 parts.
Key documents
APE Part 1: Submission of AACA Logbook and Statement of Practical Experience
APE Part 2: National Examination Paper (NEP)
When preparing for the NEP, you must refer to the Key Documents on the AACA website here.
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.
Key documents
APE Part 3: Examination by Interview
When preparing for the Examination by Interview, you should refer to the Key Documents on the AACA website here.
The Examination by Interview assesses a candidate’s range of work and their capacity to demonstrate and communicate adequate practical application and experience of the 2021 NSCA.
Interviews run for 45 to 60 minutes and are conducted in person by two experienced NSW registered architects at the NSW Architects Registration Board’s premises in Sydney.
Candidates who have passed the Examination by Interview may apply for registration as an architect in NSW.
Key documents
Upon successful completion of all 3 parts of the APE you can apply for initial registration as an architect in NSW by completing Form 01 - Application for Initial Registration as an Architect in NSW.
Attend the free briefing webinars
Before you apply for the APE you are encouraged to attend the free webinars delivered by the NSW ARB Registrar, Dr Kirsten Orr and NSW APE Convenor, Associate Professor Melonie Bayl-Smith:
| For candidates planning to apply in Session 1, 2024: | |
| 2024 APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing
Tuesday 5 December 2023, 5.30pm – 7.00pm 2024 APE Part 3 Candidate Briefing Tuesday 7 May 2024, 5.30pm – 7.00pm |
Register Here Register Here |
| For candidates planning to apply in Session 2, 2024: |
|
| 2024 APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing
Tuesday 4 June 2024, 5.30pm – 7.00pm 2024 APE Part 3 Candidate Briefing Tuesday 8 October 2024, 5.30pm – 7.00pm |
Register Here Register Here |
| For candidates planning to apply in 2025: | |
| 2025 APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Tuesday 3 December 2024, 5.30pm – 7.00pm | Register Here |
Architectural Practice Examination Part 1 & 2 Briefing outline
Listen to the audio presentation by Dr Kirsten Orr (Registrar)
Watch the video presentation by Dr Kirsten Orr (Registrar)
