Program Overview
What is BEFA Certification?
The Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA) Program is a pathway to licensure for foreign licensed architects.
The program was developed by the Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC) and is administered by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB). It assesses the broad professional experience of foreign-trained architects against the Canadian Standard of Competency for Architects.
Applicants who meet the Program eligibility requirements can apply for BEFA Certification through a process which consists of an online demonstration of competency and an interview with an assessment panel comprised of Canadian architects.
Why Do You Need BEFA Certification?
The BEFA pathway is designed specifically for foreign licensed and experienced architects. Completing this process allows you to apply for licensure as an architect in the Provincial or Territorial Association you have chosen to register.
Successful BEFA candidates are granted BEFA Certification, which represents recognition of compliance with the Canadian Standard of Competency for Architects.
Architecture in Canada is a regulated profession. If you are a foreign licensed and experienced architect, you must have your experience assessed against the Canadian Standard.
If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for BEFA, you may still be eligible for academic certification through the CACB if you hold a professional degree in architecture. We encourage you to review both options carefully to ensure you select the pathway that is right for you, as BEFA eligibility fees are non-refundable.
How Long Does It Take To Receive BEFA Certification?
The overall time to certification will vary depending on how quick applicants complete and submit the required material. The time it takes to prepare for the interview is up to the applicant, allowing flexibility to accommodate work and other commitments.
The three required submission timelines in the BEFA program are as follows:
- Eligibility Stage: Documents must be submitted within two (2) months of the eligibility fee payment.
- Demonstration of Competency Stage: All documents must be uploaded within twelve (12) months of the payment for this stage.
- Interview Stage: Applicants must complete six (6) months of relevant experience in Canada before the interview.