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.
About the Architect Exam Prep Study Package
About the Architect Registration Exam® (ARE 5.0)
Intro to Module 1
Section 1.1 – Architect’s Role at Preconstruction
A. Architect’s Role at Preconstruction
B. Project Delivery Methods
C. Developing Bidding Documents
Section 1.2 – Selecting a Contractor
A. Award of the Contract
Section 1.3 – Project Costs
A. Cost Estimating Standards
B. Owner Budget & Cost Estimates
C. Cost Effect on Design Decisions
D. Managing the Project Budget
E. Managing the Project Schedule
How to Prepare!
Mindset Matters!
Audio Commentary Module 1
Intro to Module 2
Section 2.1 – Architect’s Role During Construction
A. AIA Contracts for Construction
B. Owner-Architect Agreement
C. Project Manual Contents
D. Evaluate & Process Change Orders
Section 2.2 – Conformance to Contract Documents
A. Complying with Design Intent
B. Procedures for Substitutions
Section 2.3 Observing Construction
A. Site Observation
B. Aesthetic Effect
C. Observing Construction
How to Prepare!
Mindset Matters!
Audio Commentary Module 2
Intro to Module 3
Section 3.1 – Construction Administration
A. Additional Services
Section 3.2 – Submittals to Architect & Contractor
A. Review Shop Drawings and Submittals
B. Preparation and Maintenance of Project Records
Section 3.3 – Paying the Contractor
A. Paying the Contractor
B. Application for Payment
Section 3.4 – Issues of Non-conformance to Contract Documents
A. Resolving Conflicts and Disagreements How to Prepare!
Mindset Matters!
Audio Commentary Module 3
Intro to Module 4
Section 4.1 – Project Closeout
A. Role of the Architect during Closeout Procedures
B. Role of the Contractor during Closeout Procedures
C. Role of the Owner during Close-out Procedures
Section 4.2 – Post-Occupancy Evaluation
A. Post-Occupancy Evaluation
How to Prepare!
Mindset Matters!
Audio Commentary Module 4
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.
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:
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
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
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 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.
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.
Now that I’ve had some time to briefly look over the material I must say this is exactly the type of study package I’ve been looking for. The audio companion alone is what I’ve been dreaming of since I got my authorization to test; I won’t say how many years ago that was.

I just got my exam results and I passed! I used your program and it definitely helped me become more familiar with the topics and skills needed. Thank you.

Your study materials are very helpful and in my opinion most superior to what is out there in the market.

Hi David, First of all, wanted to thank you for your wonderful website on ARE. I’ve passed my SPD end of December and will be taking my PPP tomorrow. Thanks!
Thanks for making sure the information gets to us. Luckily, I used the PPP and passed the first time – thank you! I have since passed my remaining exams and am now a licensed Architect! Thanks for your exam guides and the podcasts to support me along the way!
Good Morning David, Eric, and Aubrey! The study material, OMCES, and Video Vignettes for CDS gave me a great deal of confidence when taking my first exam. I am very happy to let you know that I received a “passing” result for the CDS exam, and can’t wait to do the same for PPP thanks to Architect Exam Prep!
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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.
Our critically acclaimed ARE Study Packages are sold through memberships that come in monthly, and 6 or 12-month plans. Simply choose how much time you need. The more time you get, the bigger the discount!
You can access the study packages through our website from anywhere! If you need more help, you can add on coaching to help keep you on track so you know exactly what to study every day.