Part 3 Examination in Practice and Management

The Part 3 Examination in Practice and Management is the final stage in an architect’s education and training – and the foundation for life-long learning and development as a member of the architectural profession.

Candidates who successfully pass the Part 3 examination are entitled to register as an architect in the UK (ARB Registration) and to apply for worldwide corporate membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects. The term ‘architect’ is a protected title and can only be used by ARB registered architects. Once you have registered with the ARB you can practice as an architect. However, concomitant with full professional status is the requirement to pay an annual registration fee to the ARB and to comply with the professions code of conduct and to maintain and develop professional skills (CPD). See www.arb.org for further details.

This guide (available here as a PDF) aims to give you advice on a range of issues that face you when you are contemplating taking the Part 3 examination. Questions such as, am I eligible, when and where can I take the examination, what does the examination consist of, do I have all the necessary material ready for submission and to a satisfactory standard?

The guide also makes some suggestions on how you might work with your fellow Part 3 candidates to further your understanding and test your knowledge of important topics that you will encounter in the examination.

Reading around the subject is important to establish basic knowledge. Solving problems in architectural practice very often has no right and wrong answer so it is also important to read widely, keep abreast of current trends and form your own opinions. Appendix 3 in the guide provides you with an indicative reading list.