Becoming an architect in the United States is a long process with a rewarding career. If you’re interested in designing buildings, working with construction teams, and shaping the built environment, this guide walks you through how to become an architect. We’ll break down expected costs, a timeline of how long it takes to become an architect, and how much you can earn.

How long does it take to become an architect?

On average, it takes about eight to eleven years to become a licensed architect in the U.S. That includes time spent earning a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, gaining work experience through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), and passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Some students finish faster if they attend a five-year bachelor of architecture program (B.Arch), which offers the fastest route to becoming an architect. 

How hard is it to become an architect?

Compared to other AEC careers, architecture takes more formal schooling and testing with specific education requirements. Aspiring architects need a five-year degree minimum and 3,740 AXP hours to pass six separate ARE 5.0 exams. Admission to top architecture schools can be competitive, and accredited programs often require portfolio submissions and rigorous coursework in physics, calculus, and architectural design.

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If you’re someone who excels in these areas, architecture could be a great career path. Architecture school combines technical and creative skill-building, with long studio hours being typical. If you enjoy design and problem-solving but don’t want to spend a decade in school, a related field like civil engineering or construction management might be more appealing. 

How much does it cost to become an architect?

United States

In the U.S., the total cost to become an architect typically ranges between $65,000 to $180,000, depending on the school and degree type.

• Tuition for a B.Arch program: $8,000–$60,000/year
• M.Arch tuition (2–3 years): $15,000–$60,000/year
• ARE exam fees (6 sections): ~$1,410 total 
• Registration and NCARB record setup: ~$100/year
• Licensing fees by state: $50–$300

Community colleges and in-state public universities can make the process more affordable. You can also gain AXP experience through paid work, which helps offset some of the cost.

Canada

In Canada, costs are similar:

• Bachelor of Architectural Studies: CAD $7,000–$12,000/year (domestic)
• M.Arch tuition: CAD $8,000–$20,000/year
• CExAC (exams): CAD $1,000+
• Internship in Architecture Program (IAP): May include fees for registration, mentoring, and provincial board dues

Provincial requirements vary; some provinces offer incentives or student support to ease costs.

6 steps you need to take to become an architect

1. Earn a graduate degree from a NAAB-accredited architecture program

Start with an accredited undergraduate degree in architecture. This could be a five-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) or a pre-professional Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies, followed by a two or three year Master of Architecture (M.Arch). 

Accreditation from the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) is required for getting an architecture license in most states. Choose your school based on your long-term goals, as some programs are geared more toward design or technical aspects.

Look for schools with good studio culture, internship connections, and access to tools like CAD software, 3D modeling labs, and fabrication spaces. Strong programs will also include architectural history, sustainable design, and building systems.

2. Create an NCARB record

Before you begin logging professional experience, you’ll need to open an NCARB Record. This profile tracks your progress toward licensure. Through it, you’ll record education credentials, AXP hours, and your completion of the ARE. It costs $100 to open and $85 per year to maintain.

Creating a record early helps you avoid scrambling to backfill the experience later. It also makes you eligible for early testing in some jurisdictions and simplifies state-to-state license transfers later on.

3. Complete the Architectural Experience Program (AXP)

The AXP, managed by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), requires 3,740 hours of practical training. This experience requirement must be completed under the supervision of a licensed architect. AXP covers six areas of experience: Practice management, project management, programming & analysis, project planning & design, project development & documentation, and construction & evaluation.

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Many architecture students work as intern architects or designer roles during or after school to fulfill these additional requirements. You’ll gain real-world experience drafting construction documents, reviewing building codes, attending site visits, and working with clients or contractors. Your supervisor will approve hours through your NCARB account.

4. Pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE 5.0)

The ARE 5.0 is a six-part exam that tests your knowledge of building systems, codes, site planning, documentation, and contract administration. Each division takes three to five hours, and you can schedule them over time. Some states allow candidates to start testing before they complete AXP, but all must pass to become licensed.

It’s recommended to prepare using study materials from NCARB, Black Spectacles, or ARE study groups. Many candidates take 6 to 18 months to complete all sections. Failing a division requires a 60-day wait before retesting, so planning and prep are recommended.

5. Apply for licensure in your state

After completing AXP and passing the ARE, apply for a license through your state’s Architectural Registration Board. Each state has slightly different requirements; some may ask for additional paperwork, ethics exams, or proof of citizenship.

Most states rely on your NCARB record for verification. Fees typically range from $100 to $300. Once you’re approved, you can legally use the title licensed architect and sign and seal drawings.

6. Maintain your license with continuing education

Once licensed, architects must complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their license. Most states require 12 CE hours annually, and topics often include health, safety, welfare (HSW), sustainable design, and building codes. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) also offers CE courses.

If you plan to practice in multiple states, consider earning the NCARB Certificate, which makes reciprocity easier. You’ll also need to renew your license regularly—usually every one or two years, depending on your state.

Salary expectations for architecture

In the United States, the average salary for an architect is $89,470, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Entry-level architects earn around $60,000–$70,000, while experienced professionals and firm partners can make $120,000+.

• Top-paying states: New York, California, Texas, Massachusetts, Washington
• Highest demand areas: Urban centers with active construction like Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, and the DC metro area
• Specialties that increase income: Healthcare design, high-performance building, historic preservation, and government contracts

Many architects increase earnings through overtime, contract work, consulting, or moving into firm management. Experience in project management and construction management, and certifications like LEED or PMP, can also help increase income.

Tips for a successful architecture career

• Start AXP hours early: Logging experience during school can cut years off your path to licensure.
• Practice your design skills: Strong portfolios open doors. Practice sketching, CAD, and 3D rendering regularly.
• Understand construction methods: Learn how your designs translate to physical buildings. Visit job sites and ask contractors questions.
• Build communication skills: Successful architects communicate clearly with clients, engineers, and city planners.
• Follow local building codes: Codes vary by state and city. Staying current helps avoid legal issues.
• Work in different firm types: Try internships in large, small, and design-build firms to see what fits you best.
• Use new technologies: Tools like BIM, computer-aided design, parametric modeling, and AI are changing how architects work.

Is architecture a promising career?

Architecture is a strong career choice for people who enjoy design, technical problem-solving, and seeing their ideas become buildings. In states like Texas, Florida, and California, demand is growing due to population growth and infrastructure expansion. Public projects, housing booms, and climate-focused construction offer steady work.

It also has a respected role with union options in some public sector jobs. Construction activity and government investment in infrastructure help keep job openings stable, even during downturns. Architectural Licensure brings job security, career mobility, and a chance to shape the built environment.

Want to explore the AEC industries more? Check out these articles:

• Best 3D modeling software for architects
• Unlock success with industry association memberships
• AI and robotics in automated architecture

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