Aspiring architects, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Architects Examination is scheduled for January 20 and 22, 2026, offering a significant step toward professional licensure. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your expertise in the field!
The Architect Licensure Examination will be held on January 20 and 22, 2026 (Tuesday and Thursday), across multiple testing centers: NCR, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga. Aspiring architects can apply from November 11 to December 15, 2025. Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline! The examination assesses candidates' knowledge and skills essential for architectural practice. Results are anticipated to be released on January 27, 2026.
Examination Schedule and Locations
The examination will take place on Tuesday, January 20, and Thursday, January 22, 2026. Examinees can choose from a wide array of testing centers located in key cities across the Philippines:
- NCR
- Baguio
- Cagayan de Oro
- Cebu
- Davao
- Iloilo
- Legazpi
- Lucena
- Pampanga
- Rosales
- Tacloban
- Tuguegarao
- Zamboanga
Ensure you select your preferred testing center during the application process.
Important Dates for Application
- The application period is crucial, so take note of these dates:
- Application Opening: November 11, 2025
- Application Deadline: December 15, 2025
Don't miss the deadline! Submit your application within the specified period to secure your spot in the examination.
Target Release Date of Examination Results
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) aims to release the examination results promptly. The target date for the release is January 27, 2026. Keep an eye on the PRC's official website for updates and announcements.
Tips for Aspiring Architects
- Start Early: Begin your review and preparation well in advance.
- Focus on Key Areas: Prioritize subjects that carry significant weight in the examination.
- Practice Regularly: Solve sample problems and take practice tests to build confidence.
- Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest trends and developments in architecture.
- Stay Healthy: Ensure you are physically and mentally prepared on the day of the exam.
| DATE AND TIME | SUBJECTS | WEIGHT |
|---|
| TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2025 | GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS AND
FILLING-OUT OF FORMS | |
| 7:00 A.M. - 7:45 A.M. | | |
| 8:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. | HISTORY & THEORY OF ARCHITECTURE,
PRINCIPLES OF PLANNING &
ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE | 30% |
| 2:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. | UTILITIES, STRUCTURAL CONCEPTUALIZATION,
BUILDING MATERIALS & TECHNOLOGY | 30% |
| THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2025 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND SITE PLANNING | 40% |
| 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. | | |
| TOTAL | 100% |
- Check or verify your school/building assignments at the PRC official website (www.prc.gov.ph) or through the Notices/Announcements to be posted at the PRC premises two (2) to three (3) working days before the date of examination. Bring your NOTICE OF ADMISSION when you verify your school/building assignment. Visit your school/building assignment prior to the day of the examination.
- Report to the school/building assignment before 5:30 AM on the first day of the examination to verify your room and seat number. Be punctual. Late examinees will not be admitted.
- Examinees are required to wear the following attire every examination day:
- Male Examinees - White polo shirt with collar (without any seal, logo or mark), Decent pants or slacks
- Female Examinees - White blouse or shirt with collar (without any seal, logo or mark), Decent pants, slacks or skirts
- Bring the following on examination day:
- Notice of Admission
- Official Receipt
- One (1) piece metered-stamped window mailing envelope
d. Two (2) or more pencils (No. 2)e. Ballpens with black ink onlyf. One (1) piece long brown envelopeg. One (1) piece long transparent/plastic envelope (for keeping your valuables and other allowed items)h. Basic calculator with the following features only – addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, trigonometric function, logarithm and xy - ON THE SECOND DAY ONLY (JANUARY 23, 2025).
Note: ONLY ONE BASIC CALCULATOR SHALL BE ALLOWED INSIDE THE EXAMINATION ROOM. ALL CALCULATORS SHALL BE INSPECTED AND HAVE TO BE RESET BEFORE THE START OF THE EXAMINATION.
- The following are PROHIBITED inside the examination premises/rooms:a. Books, notes, review materials, and other printed materials containing coded data/information/formula (except Rules VII and VIII of the 2004 Revised IRR of P.D. No. 1096/1977 NBCP as qualified below)b. PROGRAMMABLE CALCULATORSc. APPLE, SAMSUNG AND OTHER SMART WATCHES, CELLULAR PHONES, EAR PLUGS, TRANSMITTERS, PORTABLE COMPUTERS, BLUETOOTH AND OTHER ELECTRONIC GADGETS/DEVICES WHICH MAY BE USED TO RETRIEVE DATA/INFORMATION AND/OR TO COMMUNICATE FOR WHATEVER PURPOSESd. Bags of any kind (ladies bag, shoulder bags, attache case, backpacks, etc.)e. Other examination aides not stated on this program.
All personal belongings of the examinees shall be surrendered to the proctor and shall be placed in a secured space within the examination room.
The rules on the conduct of bodily search, inspection of personal belongings of the examinees, and the seizure/confiscation of prohibited items during the licensure exam (Annex A of PRC Memorandum Order No. 57 (s. 2020) shall be strictly observed.
Examinees and examination personnel are encouraged to observe the minimum health standards per DOH Circular No. 0324 (s. 2023)’ throughout the conduct of the examination.
Read carefully and follow the instructions on your NOTICE OF ADMISSION and EXAMINEES GUIDE.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- On the second day of the examination (January 23, 2025), every candidate is required to bring the following:a. architect scales (English and Metric Scales)b. 30 x 60 and 45 degree trianglesc. protractorsd. basic calculator with the following features only—addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, trigonometric function, logarithm and xy.
e. pencils, drawing pens, erasers, and other tools for sketching purposesf. graphing paper (used/unused will be surrendered to the room watcher/s after the conduct of examination)g. printed copy of Rules VII and VIII of the 2004 Revised IRR of P.D. No. 1096 or the “1977 National Building Code of the Philippines (NBCP)”. The printed copy shall be subject to inspection during the examination. This will be confiscated in the event that any markings are found thereon.
2. Candidates will not be allowed to leave the examination rooms, borrow anything, or communicate with one another on any subject matter. Every candidate is required to bring his/her lunch and/or supper (placed inside a transparent/plastic bag) on the day of the examination. The proctors/room watchers shall not allow any person to give or distribute food to any examinee while the examination is in progress.NOTE: PERSONAL BELONGINGS BROUGHT BY AN EXAMINEE SHALL BE FOR HIS/HER OWN ACCOUNT. THE PRC WILL NOT BE ANSWERABLE FOR ANY SUCH ITEM OR PERSONAL BELONGING THAT MIGHT BE LOST DURING THE EXAM WITHOUT FAULT OR NEGLIGENCE ON ITS PART.
Manila, PhilippinesNovember 25, 2024
APPROVED:ROBERT S. SACChairmanPRB of Architecture
CERTIFIED CORRECT:Atty. LOVELIKA T. BAUTISTAChief, PRB Secretariat Division
Coverage of Exams
The 2026 Architecture licensure exam covered the following topics:
History and Theory of Architecture, Principles of Planning, Architecture Practice
Utilities Systems, Structural Conceptualization, Building Materials, and Construction
Architectural Design and Site Planning.
Aspiring architects in 2025 faced a rigorous and comprehensive licensure exam designed to test their knowledge, skills, and readiness to enter the profession. The exam covered a wide array of topics, ensuring that only the most qualified candidates would earn the right to practice architecture. Let's delve into the key areas covered in this crucial examination.
This section explored the historical evolution of architectural styles, movements, and philosophies. Candidates were expected to demonstrate an understanding of how historical context influences contemporary design and architectural thought. Key areas included:
- Ancient Architecture: From the pyramids of Egypt to the temples of Greece, candidates needed to understand the foundational principles that shaped early architectural forms.
- Renaissance and Baroque: A deep dive into the architectural innovations of these periods, focusing on symmetry, proportion, and ornamentation.
- Modern and Postmodern Movements: Understanding the shift towards functionalism, minimalism, and the subsequent reaction against these principles.
Effective planning is at the heart of architecture, and this section assessed the candidates' grasp of urban planning, spatial organization, and sustainable design practices. Topics included:
- Urban Design: Understanding the principles of creating livable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing urban spaces.
- Zoning and Land Use: Knowledge of regulations and guidelines that govern how land can be used and developed.
- Environmental Planning: Integrating sustainable practices into planning to minimize environmental impact and promote ecological balance.
This area focused on the professional aspects of architecture, including ethics, project management, and legal considerations. Candidates were tested on their ability to navigate the complexities of architectural practice. Key topics were:
- Professional Ethics: Understanding the ethical responsibilities of architects and their obligations to clients, the public, and the environment.
- Contract Law: Knowledge of contracts, agreements, and legal frameworks that govern architectural projects.
- Project Management: Skills in managing project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure successful project delivery.
A crucial aspect of modern architecture, this section examined the candidates' understanding of building systems that provide essential services. Topics included:
- HVAC Systems: Knowledge of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environments.
- Plumbing Systems: Understanding water supply, drainage, and waste disposal systems.
- Electrical Systems: Knowledge of electrical distribution, lighting, and power systems in buildings.
This section tested the candidates' ability to understand and apply structural principles in architectural design. Topics included:
- Load Analysis: Understanding how loads (gravity, wind, seismic) affect building structures.
- Structural Systems: Knowledge of various structural systems like reinforced concrete, steel, and timber.
- Stability and Equilibrium: Ensuring that architectural designs are structurally sound and stable.
A thorough understanding of building materials and construction techniques is essential for architects. This section covered:
- Material Properties: Understanding the characteristics, performance, and sustainability of different building materials.
- Construction Methods: Knowledge of various construction techniques, including traditional and modern methods.
- Building Codes and Standards: Familiarity with regulations and standards that govern building construction.
This section was perhaps the most comprehensive, requiring candidates to integrate their knowledge from all other areas into practical design solutions. Topics included:
- Design Principles: Applying principles of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability in architectural design.
- Site Analysis: Understanding site conditions, including topography, climate, and environmental factors.
- Conceptual Design: Developing innovative and creative design concepts that meet client needs and site requirements.
The 2025 Architecture Licensure Exam was a significant milestone for aspiring architects, testing their readiness to shape the built environment with competence and creativity. Successful candidates demonstrated not only theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills necessary to excel in the field.
