To become a registered architect in Australia, individuals must successfully complete the Architectural Practice Examination (APE) unless they qualify for an exemption through a mutual recognition agreement, an AACA Overseas Qualification Assessment or the Experienced Practitioner Assessment.

The APE is a national competency-based assessment aligned with the 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (2021 NSCA). The standard outlines 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 architectural practice in Australia and the professional skills to perform competently.

The APE is conducted twice each year and comprises 3 parts.

For all parts of the APE, candidates must carefully review all key documents on the AACA website to ensure adequate preparation.

APE Part 1: Submission of AACA Logbook and Statement of Practical Experience

Applications for the APE are submitted online.

When preparing your submission for APE Parts 1 and 2, please refer to the APE Application Guidelines PDF and the relevant key documents available on the AACA website.

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).

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 NEP before being admitted to Part 3: Examination by Interview.

APE Part 3: Examination by Interview

Candidates who pass the National Examination Paper are eligible to be admitted to the Examination by Interview.

The Examination by Interview evaluates a candidate’s range of work and their ability to demonstrate and communicate practical application and experience in alignment with the 2021 NSCA.

Interviews are conducted in person by two experienced SA-registered architects at the APBSA premises in Adelaide and run for 45 to 60 minutes.

Registration

Upon successful completion of all 3 parts of the APE you can apply for initial registration as an architect in South Australia by completing Form 01- Application for Initial Registration as an Architect in South Australia.

Additional Support and Resources

APBSA recommends that APE candidates consider undertaking any of the following programs to support their preparation:

Briefing sessions are held for prospective and current APE candidates before each examination period. 

2024 APE Graduates with Minister Champion, Hon. Michelle Lensink MLC and Hon. Jane Stinson MP.

Architectural Practice Examinations Schedule

The first session of the APE commences in January with the second session commencing in July.

The latest timetable and schedule of fees for the APE is available on the Graduates Forms and Facts page.

Apply now to register to become an APE candidate.

Get updates about the APE

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The Board recommends that graduates attend the Briefing Session held before each APE Session commences, please email [email protected] to receive the Zoom meeting link. Briefing sessions are presented by the State Convenor and the Registrar.

Part 1 Candidates
Part 1 applications are submitted via the APBSA website. When applying, please make sure you have the relevant documentation in PDF format ready to upload. Once submitted, you will be directed to a payments page. Be sure to print the invoice for taxation purposes. Please note that no extensions will be granted beyond the closing date specified on the timetable.

Part 2 Candidates
If you pass Part 1, the AACA will contact you with information about sitting the National Examination Paper (NEP).

The NEP is conducted online with remote proctoring. It is highly recommended you select the venue carefully and ensure it is quiet, private and inaccessible to others for the duration of the exam.

Part 3 Candidates
Part 3 applications are submitted via the APBSA website. Only candidates who have passed Part 2 can create a Part 3 application. When applying you must upload the Part 3 Application Form before submitting. Once submitted, you will be directed to a payments page. Be sure to print the invoice for taxation purposes.

Please note that no extensions will be granted beyond the closing date specified on the timetable.

Re-sits and Deferrals
If you have deferred or wish to sit or re-sit any part of the APE, please apply online by the closing date of the specific part of the exam you wish to sit.

Candidates who have not undertaken Part 1 and or 2 in this session must submit:

  • A new Statutory Declaration
  • A new Application Form
  • An updated Document 2 (Logbook, SoPE and Performance Review Criteria Report)

Moved Locations?
Please note that if you have passed Parts 1 and 2 in another jurisdiction but wish to sit Part 3 in South Australia, you must notify the Registrar of your intention to sit Part 3 before the application opening date.

Additional Information
The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) provides further important information on their website, including:

  • The timeframe allowed to complete all parts of the examination
  • Eligibility for re-sitting parts of the examination
  • A reference guide for candidates
  • A sample Examination Paper and Answer Sheet

For further details, visit aaca.org.au.