Interview Process

The interview process includes the interview, certification, and, if needed, remedial work or remedial work with a focused interview.

For a step-by-step overview, we encourage you to consult the interview resources, which include a process flow chart.

In order to be eligible for the interview, applicants must complete six months of relevant experience in Canada before the Assessment Interview. This experience must meet the following requirements:

  • Applicants must be exposed to the practice and regulatory requirements of architecture in Canada.
  • Must be gained within three years before the date scheduled for the assessment interview.
  • Must be gained under the personal supervision and direction of a registered/licensed architect within Canada.
  • The completion of the six months of relevant experience in Canada must be confirmed with a signed letter by the supervising architect.

Step 1: Scheduling the Interview

Applicants must complete the required six months of relevant Canadian experience before scheduling the interview. This is a mandatory step to be eligible for the Assessment Interview. Once the signed letter from your supervising architect confirming this experience has been received, the interview can be scheduled.

There are four interview dates each year, with two sessions offered in the spring and two in the fall. Applicants are responsible for making their own travel and accommodation arrangements for in-person interviews.

Step 2: Preparing for the Interview

The interview is conducted by the same panel of three architects who assessed the Demonstration of Competency submission.

Applicants are required to bring hard copies of documentation including one full project. This projects does not need to be Canadian, though the panel may request specific documents as needed.

Step 3: The Interview

The interview is similar to an oral examination and is conducted as a respectful professional discussion among colleagues.

Its purpose is to allow the panel to further review the submission, clarify the applicant’s experiences and knowledge, and gain a deeper understanding of the applicant’s familiarity with areas of architectural practice and the regulation of the profession in Canada.

Step 4: Outcome

There are three possible outcomes from the interview. Applicants will either receive certification, remedial work, or remedial work plus focus interview. Applicants have the right to appeal the CACB decision.