We demystify licensure and provide support to candidates and their advisors.

We create comfortable, accessible, and supportive events where licensure candidates can connect with their peers and with professionals who are happy to share their knowledge. We provide resources to Licensing Advisors within firms and Schools of Architecture. We seek to understand the experiences of students and Emerging Professionals and to develop programming and approaches that reduce barriers to effective ARE exam preparation and completion of AXP experience hours.

AIA members and architecture students are welcome to join us at any time during the year – as committee members or for specific events! Reach out to co-chairs or staff for more information. 

Regular meetings held virtually, every other month (Feb-Dec) on First Wednesdays, 12:30-1:30 pm

Licensing Support Activities

Event

Lattes & Licensure / ALA Happy Hours

An informal time for study and support for architecture licensure candidates. We aim to create a safe space for candidates to share their experiences, exchange knowledge, and celebrate all the wins - big and small!

Event

Core Competency Events

Brief presentations from experts with extended Q&A covering topics directly related to the ARE exams. A great way to deepen knowledge and get your questions answered.

Local Chapter Event

AIA St. Paul's ARE Trivia Nights

AiA St. Paul organizes trivia nights specifically focused on those preparing for ARE exams. A fun way to keep going with your licensure exam prep!

ARE Scholarship

Funding

ARE Scholarship ยป

The ALA Committee administers an annual scholarship to cover the costs of licensing exams. Assoc. AIA members of AIA Minnesota are eligible, including recent graduates who can be members of AIA for 18 months at no cost. Deadline is typically in May.

NCARB Resources

The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) provides a variety of resources to support Licensing Advisors.

Guide to becoming ALA

Online Resource (PDF)

NCARB Guide to Becoming an Architect Licensing Advisor

ARE 5.0 Community

Online Community

NCARB ARE 5.0 Community

For those pursuing licensure and Licensing Advisors. Follow the conversations, post questions and answers, get expert help, and form study groups

2025 Summit recap

Event

NCARB Licensing Advisors Summit (held every other year - next Summit will be 2027)

This recap of the 2025 Summit, held in Minneapolis, gives a good overview of what attendees can look forward to in future years.

Looking for more info on architect licensure?

Check out this special Licensure section of the AIA Minnesota website -- part of the EP Hub.

Committee Leadership & Staff

Co-Chair

Olivia Sprosty, AIA

Co-Chair

Evan Hall, AIA

Continuing Education Director

Deanna Christiansen, Hon. AIAMN