The launch of ARE 4.0 is less than a year away. Candidates testing under ARE 3.1 have until June 2009 (20 months!) to complete ARE 3.1 before they are transitioned to the updated exam.

The key to making the transition as smooth as possible is to develop a plan for all of your remaining divisions now. NCARB’s web site has several tools for you to use as you prepare for the transition period, including a transition chart, a timeline of events, and a Frequently Asked Questions section.

The fall 2007 issue of NCARB’s Direct Connection includes two sample plans for attacking the next year and a half to minimize the possibility of needing to repeat material under ARE 4.0. If you didn’t receive a copy in the mail, you can download a copy of the article by clicking here. If you'd like a complete copy of Direct Connection, click here.

In August, NCARB posted the fees for the seven divisions of ARE 4.0 on our web site at http://www.ncarb.org/are/prices.html. Each of the seven divisions will cost $170. The fee to reschedule an exam will remain $35.

You will be able to download the ARE 4.0 study guides for free beginning in January. The ARE e-news in March will have more information on the new study guides.

Remember to check NCARB’s web site for the latest information on ARE 4.0!

If you have any questions or concerns about the exam, please contact the ARE department at are@ncarb.org.

Ready to take the ARE?

Does your jurisdiction allow early access to the ARE? If so, you may be able to take advantage of NCARB’s new online system to request an Authorization to Test. If you have an active NCARB Record and have fulfilled all of your jurisdiction’s requirements, you can place your request through the “My NCARB Record” section of our web site.  It’s quick and easy!

Here’s what you do:

1. Log into your account at www.ncarb.org.
2. Click “Request Transmittal of Record”.
3. Check the box “Do you want to take the ARE?”
4. Select the jurisdiction in which you would like to test and click transmit.
5. If you fulfill all of your jurisdiction’s requirements, an e-mail will be sent instantly to your state board for them to grant their authorization. For NCARB Direct Registration states, notification will be sent to NCARB to grant your authorization to test. *
6. You will receive an e-mail notification and your Authorization to Test number will be sent to you directly (by mail) if you are eligible.  You may wish to review the Registration Requirements link on our web site or contact your board to determine the criteria required to test.

This new online tool should be used by all interns requesting an Authorization to Test. It was specifically built to speed up the process for jurisdictions that have adopted early eligibility rules, but will ultimately enhance all requests for this service.

*Applicants will be required to pay the full $285 Record fee prior to completion of the request for an Authorization to Test.