Construction & Evaluation (CE) - 2026
Construction Administration in Practice
The Construction & Evaluation (CE) exam tests your understanding of the construction and closeout process, including the roles of the Architect, Contractor, and Owner, covering the full Construction Administration phase. You’ll face scenario-based questions on contract administration and the responsibilities of all three parties, applying your legal knowledge, communication skills, and project management expertise over four hours to demonstrate your mastery of managing a construction project.
Our CE study package is a complete, affordable solution designed to give you everything you need to succeed. It breaks down AIA Contracts clearly, showing you how to approach any question and eliminating the need for additional materials. The study guide mirrors the structure of the NCARB exam and is written in clear, accessible language. The Audio Companion allows you to listen and follow along from anywhere, with real-life examples presented as memorable stories to reinforce the concepts.
The package also includes a Case Study Guide to prepare you for the exam’s case studies with project documents that closely resemble the real ones, hundreds of digital flashcards covering all exam sections for efficient review, and a timed exam simulator that provides instant feedback and scoring so you can track your readiness.
Reviewed and approved by NCARB, this study package ensures you are focusing on the material that truly matters for passing the CE exam. Membership gives you full access from any device, anywhere, through a beautifully designed online course portal, allowing you to study at your own pace and approach this challenging exam with confidence.
Start preparing for the ARE Practice Management exam today
What’s Included Inside the Course
- Study Guide
Follows the exact structure of the NCARB exam, written in clear, easy-to-understand language. - Audio Companion
Listen like an audiobook while following along with the guide—study anywhere, anytime. - Real-Life Commentary
Memorable stories and examples that show how concepts apply in practice. - Digital Flashcards
Hundreds of flashcards organized by exam section to reinforce key concepts. - Exam Simulator
Timed practice exams with instant feedback and scoring so you’ll know exactly when you’re ready. - Case Studies Test Prep
6 Case Studies consisting of 272 questions that will help you prepare to move through reference documents efficiently and effectively. - Practice Exam Questions
240 practice exam questions with instant feedback as well as timed exams to help you develop a steady pace for exam day.
Inside the Study Materials
Online Study Guide
- 60+ Mastery Topics – Dive into detailed, exam-specific concepts that go beyond surface-level summaries
- 4 Main Modules / 40 Topics – Organized structure so you can move step by step with confidence
- Concise Summaries – Each module includes streamlined takeaways so you focus on what matters most
- Prep Strategies – Practical tips to maximize your study time and stay efficient
- Mindset Guidance – Proven strategies to stay focused, confident, and exam-ready
Audio Companion
- 8+ Hours of Downloadable Content – Learn anywhere, anytime, without needing Wi-Fi
- Seamlessly Paired with the Study Guide – Listen while you follow along for stronger retention
- Flexible Learning – Perfect for the gym, commute, or downtime when you can’t sit and read
- On-the-Go Mastery – Turn everyday moments into productive study sessions
Flashcards That Fit Your Study Style
- Organized by Module – Review content section by section so you always know what to focus on
- Flip & Tap on Your Phone – Study on the go with easy digital cards at your fingertips
- Download & Print – Prefer paper? Print them out for offline practice and highlight as you go
- Flexible Learning – Switch between digital and print depending on your schedule and preferences
- Built for Busy Candidates – Quick, effective, and exam-aligned for maximum retention
Exam Simulator
- 300 Question Mini Quiz Bank – Practice with 25 quizzes designed for repetition and retention
- 272 Case Study Questions – Train with realistic project documents and scenarios just like test day
- 290 NCARB-Style Questions – Build confidence with authentic question types and formats
- Flexible Modes – Choose feedback, no-feedback, or timed settings to match your study style
- Mimics the NCARB Exam Experience – Instant scoring, timing, and structure that mirror the real test so you know exactly what to expect
Instant Access & Support
- Start Studying Right Away – Get instant access the moment your purchase is complete
- No Waiting – Dive into your materials today without delays or shipping
- Always Here to Help – Reach us anytime at support@architectexamprep.com for quick, reliable assistance
Ready to dive into your study tools?
Complete CE Package
- Study on Your Schedule
Choose 1 month or 3 months to access the full CE study package and fit your preparation around your life. - All-in-One Exam Tools
From study guides and audio companions to case study guides and flashcards, everything is included so you won’t need extra materials. - Master Construction Administration
Learn how to handle contracts, manage responsibilities of the Architect, Contractor, and Owner, and tackle real-world scenario questions with confidence. - Practical Strategies from Experts
Created by architects who’ve passed the ARE, focusing only on what helps you succeed—no fluff, no wasted time. - Unbeatable Value
Save compared to other prep options—get the most comprehensive CE study resources for far less than competitors.
Bundle & Save on Your Exam Prep
Maximize your preparation and minimize your costs with our exclusive course bundles. Whether you’re tackling all six divisions or focusing on a targeted set, these packages give you the flexibility, resources, and support you need to succeed.
Platinum Coaching + ALL 6 Divisions Package
One Full Year of Access
24/7 entry to all six ARE 5.0 study packages with every resource included
Personalized Coaching & Support
Direct guidance from licensed architects to keep you on track
Unmatched Value
Equivalent to getting six months free compared to monthly plans
Flexible Payments
Pay in full or split into four easy installments
Everything You Need to Succeed:
- Complete study library, downloadable MP3s, printable flashcards, and mindset downloads
- Live coaching sessions led by two licensed architects
- Daily study plan to help you finish in one year
- Weekly Zoom calls every Monday & Tuesday for discussion and review
- Free one-on-one coaching session (a $100 value)
- Exclusive Coaching Forum for direct access to mentors and peers
- Platinum Pass Guarantee – our highest level of success assurance
Bundle and Save – Complete ALL 6 Divisions Package
One-Year Access
Get all six ARE 5.0 divisions in one streamlined bundle
Perfect for Motivated Candidates
Designed for those aiming to earn their license within a year
Flexible Payment Options
Pay in full or split into four easy payments
All-Inclusive Resources
Online study guides, audio companions, flashcards, mini quizzes, and full-length practice exams for every division
Study Your Way
24/7 access to everything from day one, with downloadable MP3s and printable flashcards for offline use
Unbeatable Value
Compare to Black Spectacles at $3,290 per year or Amber Book at $4,920 per year—our package gives you more for a fraction of the cost
Focused & Affordable
Built by architects who understand your workflow, without the overwhelm
Bundle and Save – 6 Months Combo: PcM/PjM/CE
6 Months of Full Access
Prepare with the first three divisions most candidates start with: Practice Management, Project Management, and Construction & Evaluation
Designed for Motivated Candidates
A smart choice if you want flexibility and affordability without locking into 12 months
Flexible Payments
Pay in full or split into two easy installments
Complete Study Toolkit
Online study guides, audio companions, flashcards, mini quizzes, and full-length practice exams for each division
Study Anywhere
24/7 access from day one, plus downloadable MP3s and printable flashcards for offline use
Better Value
Black Spectacles costs $1,645 per year and Amber Book $2,460 per year—our package includes more for a fraction of the price
Built for Architects, by Architects
Focused, practical, and affordable, without the overwhelm
Bundle and Save – 6 Months Combo: PA/PPD/PDD
6 Months of Full Access
Prepare with the second three divisions most candidates start with: Programming & Analysis, Project Planning & Design, and Project Development & Documentation
Designed for Motivated Candidates
Perfect if you’re already on your way and need an affordable, flexible plan without locking into a year.
Flexible Payments
Pay in full or split into two easy installments
Complete Study Toolkit
Online study guides, audio companions, flashcards, mini quizzes, and full-length practice exams for each division
Study Anywhere
24/7 access from day one, plus downloadable MP3s and printable flashcards for offline use
Better Value
Black Spectacles costs $1,645 per year and Amber Book $2,460 per year—our package includes more for a fraction of the price
Built for Architects, by Architects
Focused, practical, and affordable, without the overwhelm
Platinum Coaching - Become Licensed in 1 Year!
Platinum Coaching Program
We created Platinum Coaching after seeing how many ARE 5.0 candidates struggled with overthinking, second-guessing, and studying in circles. This program gives you a guided mentorship path designed to help you take—and pass—one exam every two months, with expert support every step of the way.
- Structured daily study plans that keep you on track
- On-demand coaching videos you can watch anytime
- Direct access via Slack for real-time community and mentor support
- Guidance from two licensed architects, each with 30+ years of experience
- Two live Zoom calls every week for discussion and review
- Unlimited Q&A support when you need answers fast
- One free one-on-one coaching session (a $100 value)
With the Platinum Pass Guarantee and our “Finish in a Year” system, you’ll have structure, accountability, and mentorship built in.
Stop trying to figure it out alone—we’ll guide you through it.
Starting Learning on Your Terms and Your Pace
Only Package You Need
Brains meet clarity-with a creative edge
Think Like an Architect
What Candidates Are Saying
Compare your readiness
Highest Pass Rates in the Industry!
71%
55%
Our mindset-based approach is designed for lasting understanding. Instead of cramming facts, you’ll uncover the deeper “why” behind how things work—giving you the clarity and confidence you need on exam day.
You already know architecture; you’ve been living it for years. What’s missing is the strategy to connect your experience with the way the exam is structured.
That’s where we come in. With mindset tools and judgment-building exercises built into every course, we help you stay calm, think clearly, and approach every question with purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ARE Construction and Evaluation exam cover, and why do so many candidates find it difficult?
The CE exam covers the full Construction Administration phase of a project, from contracts and submittals all the way through closeout. You will answer scenario-based questions on the legal responsibilities of the Architect, Contractor, and Owner, AIA contract administration, communication protocols, and project management during construction. What makes this exam tough for most candidates is not a lack of job site experience, it is the legal and contractual layer. The exam expects you to know exactly who is responsible for what, when, and under which contract terms. That level of precision is something a lot of architects never have to think about explicitly on the job, even if they have years of construction experience.
Do I need to read the full AIA contracts to prepare for the CE exam?
You do not need to read every AIA contract from cover to cover, but you do need a solid working knowledge of how they are structured and what they require from each party. This course breaks down the AIA contracts clearly so you understand how to approach any question the exam throws at you, without getting buried in contract language. The case study materials include project documents that closely mirror what you will see on test day, giving you practice reading and applying contract information under realistic conditions. The goal is for you to walk in knowing how to use those documents efficiently, not just memorize them.
What study materials are included in the CE package?
Your subscription includes an online study guide built across 4 modules and 40 topics, an audio companion with over 8 hours of downloadable content, digital and printable flashcards organized by module, and a full exam simulator. The simulator includes 290 NCARB-style practice questions, 272 case study questions, and a 300-question mini quiz bank. The case study guide prepares you specifically for the reference document portion of the exam, which trips up a lot of candidates who are not used to working through project documents under timed conditions. Everything is included in one package, no extra books or outside materials needed.
How is the CE exam structured, and how does the course prepare me for it?
The CE exam runs for four hours and is heavily scenario-based. You will not just be asked to recall facts, you will be given situations involving real construction phase decisions and asked to determine the right course of action based on contract language, professional responsibility, and project management principles. The course prepares you for this by training you to think through problems the way a licensed architect would, not just memorize answers. The timed exam simulator mirrors the structure and pacing of the actual NCARB test, so you go in knowing exactly what the experience feels like.
Should I take CE alongside PcM and PjM, or save it for later?
Many candidates tackle CE together with PcM and PjM because all three exams deal with the business and legal side of architecture. The 6 month PcM, PjM, and CE combo bundle was built for exactly that approach, it gives you full access to all three courses at a price well under what competitors charge for a single division. That said, the right order depends on your schedule, your current workload, and which topics feel most familiar. CE pairs especially well with PjM since both exams deal with contracts, consultant coordination, and project oversight, just at different phases of a project.
