Please be aware that candidates applying for APE Parts 1, 2, and 3 must ensure that the documents submitted with their application follow the format and order specified in this document. |
2026 Timetable and Fees for Architectural Practice Examination
| Session 1 | Session 2 | Fees | |
| APE Part 1 & 2 Application Dates |
Open 18 January 2026 Close 11.59pm, 1 February 2026 |
Open 28 June 2026 Close 11.59pm, 12 July 2026 |
$660 |
| APE Part 2 National Examination Paper |
Tuesday 14 April 2026 | Tuesday 22 September 2026 | $245* |
| APE Part 3 Application Dates |
Open 8 May 2026 Close 5pm, 22 May 2026 |
Open 16 October 2026 Close 5pm, 30 October 2026 |
$470 |
| APE Part 3 Examination by Interview |
June 2026 | November 2026 |
| Session 1 | |
| APE Part 1 & 2 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 18 January 2026 Close 11.59pm, 1 February 2026 |
| Fees | $660 |
| APE Part 2 | |
| National Examination Paper |
Tuesday 14 April 2026 |
| Fees | $245* |
| APE Part 3 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 8 May 2026 Close 5pm, 22 May 2026 |
| Fees | $470 |
| Examination by Interview | June 2026 |
| Session 2 | |
| APE Part 1 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 28 June 2026 Close 11.59pm, 12 July 2026 |
| Fees | $660 |
| APE Part 2 | |
| National Examination Paper |
Tuesday 22 September 2026 |
| Fees | $245* |
| APE Part 3 | |
| Application Dates |
Open 16 October 2026 Close 5pm, 30 October 2026 |
| Fees | $470 |
| Examination by Interview | November 2026 |
* only applicable if you are re-applying within 12 months of initial application.
APE Part 2: National Examination Paper (NEP)
Candidates who have met the eligibility requirements for APE Part 1 are eligible to sit the National Examination Paper (NEP).
When preparing for the NEP, you must refer to the Key Documents on the AACA website.
The NEP is a scenario-based exam that tests knowledge and application of the relevant performance criteria in the 2021 NSCA. It is a ‘closed book’, remote proctored computer-based assessment comprising 80 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 120 minutes.
Candidates must pass the National Examination Paper before being admitted to Part 3: Examination by interview.
AACA Key Documents
- Architectural Practice Examination Handbook
- APE Support Material
- APE Checklist
- APE Performance Criteria Report (APE Part 1 NSCA Project Matrix)
- 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA)
- 2021 National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA) Explanatory Notes
- NEP Remote Proctoring FAQs
Other documents
You should also familiarise yourself with the APE Online Video Resources on the AACA website.
Attend the free briefing webinars
Before you apply for the APE Parts 1 & 2 you are encouraged to attend a free webinar delivered by the NSW ARB Registrar, Dr Kirsten Orr and NSW APE Convenor Ms Jenna Rowe:
| APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Slides |
| APE 2025 Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Record |
| APE 2025 Q & A |
For candidates planning to apply in Session 2, 2026:
 |
2026 APE Part 1 & 2 Candidate Briefing Tuesday 19 May 2026 5.30pm - 7.00pm |
Register |
