BEFA Interview

Applicants who have demonstrated competence to practice architecture independently in the United States in their BEFA dossier are invited for an interview at a subsequent meeting of the BEA Committee. The purpose of the interview is to verify the applicant’s responsibility over the development, management, and implementation of each submitted project; the applicant’s understanding of U.S. licensing and professional conduct requirements; and the applicant’s knowledge of U.S. building codes and laws.

Interviews are held several times a year in major U.S. cities. Detailed information about the interview location and time is provided once the applicant’s dossier has been reviewed and accepted. Interview fees are due before the interview. Results are announced approximately four weeks after the interview.

Upon successful completion of the BEFA Program, prior to issuance of an NCARB Certificate, applicants are required to request updated credential information from the credentialing authority of their foreign country (Credential Verification Form 263). Documentation of credentials must be submitted directly to NCARB from the credentialing authority.

Once an NCARB Certificate has been issued, the applicant must obtain registration in a Member Board jurisdiction within one year of issuance. NCARB Certificates must be renewed annually. Annual renewal requires that the applicant maintain active registration in at least one Member Board jurisdiction. If registration is not obtained within one year, the NCARB Certificate will expire.