Architecture Board Exam Coverage 2026: Subjects, Passing Grade and Requirements

Architecture Board Exam Coverage

The Architecture Act lists four broad subject groups. PRC examination programs and syllabi may combine these subjects into major examination divisions and assign relative weights.

View the PRC Architecture examination syllabus

1. History, Theory, Planning and Architectural Practice

This area requires more than memorizing names and dates. Examinees should connect architectural ideas with their historical context, major design characteristics and influence on contemporary practice.

For professional practice, focus on the architect’s duties, scope of services, contractual relationships, ethical obligations and responsibilities during project planning, design and construction.

2. Structural Design, Construction and Utilities

The architect is expected to understand how structural and utility systems affect form, space, safety, constructability, cost and building performance.

3. Urban Design and Architectural Interiors

Examinees should understand how buildings relate to streets, communities and larger urban systems. Interior planning questions may require the proper arrangement of spaces, circulation, furniture, lighting and finishes according to user needs.

4. Architectural Design and Site Planning

Architectural Design and Site Planning carries the largest commonly assigned weight. Reviewers should practice translating a written design problem into an organized, code-compliant and environmentally responsive architectural solution.

Give attention to functional planning, circulation, orientation, site constraints, zoning requirements, structural logic and the clear communication of the proposed design.

Architecture Board Exam Passing Grade

Under Republic Act No. 9266, a candidate passes the Licensure Examination for Architects by obtaining:

• A weighted general average of at least 70 percent; and
• No grade below 50 percent in any examination subject.

Qualifications for the Architecture Board Exam

An applicant must establish that he or she:

• Is a Filipino citizen, or a citizen of a foreign country qualified under the reciprocity provisions of the Architecture Act;
• Is of good moral character;
• Holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from a school recognized or accredited by the Commission on Higher Education;
• Has completed at least two years or the equivalent of diversified architectural experience, certified by a registered and licensed architect; and
• Has not been convicted of a criminal offense involving moral turpitude.

PRC Application Requirements for Architecture

The current PRC requirements page identifies the following documents for Architecture applicants:

• PSA-issued birth certificate;
• PSA marriage certificate or contract for married female applicants, when applicable;
• College diploma showing the date of graduation and Special Order number, unless a Special Order is not required;
• Baccalaureate Transcript of Records showing the date of graduation and Special Order number, unless not required;
• Valid NBI Clearance for first-time applicants and repeaters;
• Downloadable or digitized Logbook showing two years of Diversified Architecture Experience after graduation;
• Affidavit of Experience signed and sealed by the registered architect-mentor;
• Updated photocopy of the mentor’s Professional Identification Card;
• The mentor’s Professional Tax Receipt and IAPOA membership number; and
• Payment of the applicable PRC examination fee.

What to Bring During the Architecture Board Exam

The exact examination-day checklist is stated in the current PRC examination program. Commonly required or permitted items may include:

• Notice of Admission;
• Official receipt, when required;
• Official PRC examination forms;
• No. 2 pencils;
• Black-ink ballpens;
• Long brown envelope;
• Long transparent or plastic envelope;
• Architectural scales and other approved drawing tools;
• One approved non-programmable calculator; and
• Other materials specifically listed by PRC.

Do not rely on an old checklist. The permitted drawing instruments and materials may differ by examination schedule, especially for design-related subjects.

How to Review for the Architecture Board Exam

1. Begin with the official syllabus

Use the PRC syllabus to create a checklist of topics. Mark each topic as strong, developing or weak before building your study schedule.

2. Balance design and technical review

Do not focus exclusively on design. Allocate time to history, laws, professional practice, structures, construction, materials and utilities.

3. Study laws through application

Instead of memorizing isolated provisions, connect each law or code requirement with actual architectural decisions involving occupancy, setbacks, exits, accessibility, fire safety and professional liability.

4. Practice architectural programming

Convert written project requirements into space lists, adjacency diagrams, circulation systems, zoning plans and site-development concepts.

5. Review construction details

Understand how materials and systems meet at walls, floors, roofs, openings and foundations. Learn the purpose of each component instead of memorizing details without context.

6. Take timed practice tests

Timed practice improves recall, pacing and decision-making. Review every incorrect answer and determine whether the error came from weak knowledge, misreading or poor time management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Reminder

Use this Architecture Board Exam coverage as a framework for organizing your review. Always verify examination dates, room assignments, permitted materials, application requirements and special instructions through the latest PRC announcement.

A balanced review of design, technology, history, planning, laws and professional practice is more effective than concentrating on only one examination area.