Pathway to Registration

Becoming an Architect, AAA via the Internship in Architecture Program (IAP)

1. Complete a Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) accredited architectural degree program.
   • Gain your CACB Academic Certification through your school.
      
2. Apply to the AAA IAP (approval takes 3 weeks).
   • Upon approval you are now an "Intern Architect, AAA".
      
3. Select a mentor to advise and guide you through the IAP.
    
4. Select a supervisor to direct your work.
   • Your supervisor must be a Registered Architect (RA) within a firm/organization registered with the AAA.
   • Your supervisor cannot also be your mentor.
      
5. Log experience hours using the Canadian Experience Record Book (CERB).
   • You need to complete the 3,720-hour work experience requirement under the supervision of a RA.
      
6. Pass the national exams.
   • Upon completion of 2,800 hours of work experience, you are eligible to write the Examination for Architects in Canada (ExAC) which is offered in November.
      
7. Upon completion of the national and provincial registration requirements, apply to become a RA with the AAA.
   • For more information, please contact:
     [email protected] if your last name falls within A-L
     [email protected] if your last name falls within M-Z
      
8. Complete required legislation courses.
   • All new AAA members must complete the Architects Act course as part of licensure requirements.
      
9. Pass the oral interview to validate your experience, professional judgement and competency to practice architecture in Alberta.
    
10. After passing the interview, your name will appear on the AAA website for 15 days to allow for public notification.
     
11. After the 15-day period, you are now a RA and may use the designation "Architect, AAA". You can now:
    • Own a stamp/seal
    • Apply for a firm licence or permit to practice
    • Vote on bylaws
    • Join AAA Council
    • Volunteer for AAA boards and committees