Making progress toward the AXP and ARE while earning your degree requires drive and determination—and the right resources to navigate the path to licensure. Download the IPAL Program Standards for an overview of the program, and check out other tools to help you become a successful IPAL graduate.

Download Program Standards

Are you a prospective student? Learn more about the benefits of enrolling in an IPAL option. 

Education Resources

  • IPAL Advisor—Each IPAL option has a designated IPAL advisor dedicated to offering guidance at your NAAB-accredited program. Your advisor will be able to guide you through IPAL enrollment and other school-related aspects of participating in IPAL. Not sure who your IPAL advisor is? Contact us at ipal@ncarb.org.
  • Architect Licensing Advisor—In addition to your IPAL advisor, each NAAB-accredited program has an architect licensing advisor, who can help answer many questions you may have about the AXP and the ARE. Find your licensing advisor.

AXP Resources

  • AXP Guidelines—Essential for all candidates completing the experience program, this document guides you through the program’s rules and requirements.
  • Your Guide to the AXP—This quick overview will fill you in on the basics of the experience program, including answers to frequently asked questions.
  • AXP Supervisors—Need help navigating your candidate/supervisor relationship? Visit the Supervisors and Mentors section of our website for more tools and resources.
  • Destination Architect—Sign up for our Destination Architect newsletter for the latest program updates.

ARE Resources

  • ARE 5.0 Guidelines— Learn everything you need to know about starting the ARE, scheduling an exam, going to the test center, and other important examination policies.
  • ARE 5.0 Community—Through the community, you’ll have access to exclusive prep videos, advice from NCARB experts and fellow test-takers, and more.
  • ARE 5.0 Test Prep Video Series. NCARB's video prep series offers exclusive insight into each ARE 5.0 division with information on exam content, sample questions, and suggested references. 
  • ARE Update. Want to stay on top of the latest exam news? Subscribe to our ARE Updates for important reminders, study resources, and more.

Need additional help? Reach out to ipal@ncarb.org.

NCARB's office will be closed on July 3 and 4.
NCARB Independence Day Closure

NCARB's office will be closed on July 3rd and 4th. You can still contact us online, and we will respond when we reopen.