The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has begun a public consultation on a new approach for registration of international architects
The ARB has launched a public consultation on a new way for international architects to register in the UK.
The ARB is the professional regulator responsible for recognising UK qualifications for architects, as well as determining the routes for international architects with non-UK qualifications, ensuring standards of competence.
The proposed changes will simplify the process
The proposed changes include simpler eligibility requirements, as well as a single point of assessment, reducing the number of exams international architects will need to take. Another change would be to outsource the assessment instead of running it in-house, and inviting potential providers to share thoughts on if they can run the new exams.
In January, ARB surveyed 194 international architects, and found 74% of respondents either received or sought out support or independent learning in order to adapt to UK practice.
A new ARB exam will therefore target knowledge gaps identified by internationally qualified architects, as well as provide assurance around wider competencies.
ARB overhaul will also apply to the UK adaptation assessment
ARB has also signed international agreements with counterparts in other countries, including the US, Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong.
The UK adaptation assessment demonstrates that professionals are familiar with the UK context and are ready to practice in the UK to UK standards.
Alan Kershaw, chair of the Architects Registration Board, said: “The current route open to the majority of internationally qualified architects, the Prescribed Exam, is in urgent need of a complete overhaul. The assessment methodology used in the exam is outdated and complex, and candidates often report deep frustration with the assessment format and process. Our proposals aim to improve access to the UK Register by simplifying the examination process and removing unintended complexity and barriers.”
