AIA Expands Licensure Support for Associate Members Through PrepARE

WASHINGTON – October 6, 2026 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is expanding support for Associate AIA members pursuing architectural licensure by expanding access to PrepARE, a licensure support program developed by AIA East Bay.

Recognizing the path to licensure can be demanding, costly and hard to navigate, AIA is investing in resources to help Associate members become licensed. Through the program, eligible AIA Associate members gain access to PrepARE benefits and exclusive pricing designed to help them prepare with confidence, stay motivated, and keep moving toward becoming licensed architects.

“Pursuing licensure is one of the most meaningful investments in a career, and it should not be pursued alone,” said AIA CEO/Executive Vice President Carole Wedge, FAIA, LEED AP, NOMA. “AIA is committed to reducing barriers by connecting emerging professionals to the preparation tools, guidance and the peer community needed to become a licensed architect.  Expanding PrepARE access nationally advances that commitment to future architects."

PrepARE was developed by AIA East Bay in 2025 to help aspiring architects navigate the realities of the licensure journey. The program recognizes that preparing for the ARE requires more than access to study materials. Candidates must determine where to begin, find the right resources, evaluate their readiness, balance studying with work and life, and maintain momentum through a process that can extend over several years. Since its launch, PrepARE has grown to serve more than 1,000 aspiring architects across the United States.

“Candidates don't all need the same thing at the same point in their journey,” said Mike Wilson, Executive Director of AIA East Bay and founder of PrepARE. “One person may need a comprehensive course. Another may need to find out whether they're ready to take an exam. Someone else may need guidance about what to do next. PrepARE was built to meet candidates where they are and help them keep moving toward licensure.”

The national offer builds on AIA East Bay’s work and connects it to the value of Associate AIA membership. It also complements the existing local study groups, resources, and licensing support offered by AIA chapters, creating a stronger network of national and local support for members on the path to licensure.

Through the program, Associate AIA members will receive:
Free ARE® Exam Readiness Pack, a no-cost way for members to start preparing for the ARE®. The pack includes:
•    Unlimited practice exams for all six ARE divisions
•    10-, 25-, or 50-question exam options
•    Timed practice exams similar to the actual exam
•    Performance feedback
•    Tools to identify areas for improvement
•    On-demand access

Exclusive AIA Associate member price on PrepARE All Access, the complete PrepARE experience for members who want deeper learning, structure, accountability, and community. PrepARE All Access includes:
•    80+ hours of video instruction
•    1,000+ course sections across all six ARE divisions
•    Practice exams and quizzes
•    Study community and study pods
•    Office Hours and Study Hall

Additional information about eligibility and accessing PrepARE is available at aia.org/getting-licensed/prepare.  

About PrepARE

PrepARE is a licensure-support program developed by AIA East Bay to help aspiring architects start, stay on track, and become licensed. PrepARE combines ARE preparation courses, practice exams and readiness tools with personalized guidance, accountability, and community resources designed around the realities of the licensure journey. Since launching in 2025, PrepARE has served more than 1,000 aspiring architects across the United States.

About AIA

Founded in 1857, AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing.

AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards.