Overview
RIBA Part 3 is the final stage of the UK route to becoming an architect. It is a professional course and examination in architectural practice, run by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). It follows Part 1 and Part 2.
RIBA describes the course as teaching practice and management, professionalism, procurement and contracts, and the regulatory environment for architecture. Once you complete it, you can apply to register as an architect with the ARB, and you become eligible for RIBA Chartered Membership.
Important
ARB has said it will keep accrediting existing qualifications, including Part 3 qualifications, until 31 December 2028, and that a new framework of practice-level qualifications is being introduced. The route described here is the one in force on the date of this review. Check ARB and RIBA before you apply.
Who can apply
For a RIBA Part 3 course, you should normally have completed RIBA Parts 1 and 2, or an equivalent. RIBA names two kinds of equivalent: an architecture qualification covered by the EU Professional Qualifications Directive (2005/36/EC), and an international architecture qualification at master's level of five years or more.
RIBA also expects two years of supervised practical training, with at least one year in the EEA, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
ARB's guidance on its older-style Part 3 qualifications asks for 24 months of professional practical experience. Of those, 12 months must be in the UK and in the two years directly before you apply for registration. ARB notes that practice-level qualifications accredited before 2028 may have different requirements, depending on the learning provider.
Exam pattern
The RIBA course combines teaching with an examination. For the January to June 2026 course, RIBA lists the following parts:
An induction session.
Two intensive seminars, up to six days in total.
Monthly online study packs on the RIBA Academy.
Monthly project case study webinars.
Monitoring of your experience record (PEDR) by an assigned adviser (PSA).
Allocation to a study group, with optional drop-in tutorials.
RIBA states that candidates complete a Part 3 examination to show competence. The RIBA pages used here do not set out the format, length or marking of that examination, so check the current RIBA prospectus for those details.
Important dates
RIBA runs Part 3 courses that start each January. The next start is January 2027, and the 2027 fees were still to be confirmed on the RIBA page.
Fees
RIBA listed the fees for the January 2027 course as to be confirmed. Other universities that offer an ARB/RIBA Part 3 set their own fees, so check the provider you choose.
How to apply
RIBA takes expressions of interest through an online form for each location. Doing so gives you access to the prospectus and application materials. RIBA's Part 3 courses are delivered in Chester, London, Hong Kong and the UAE. Many UK universities also offer their own prescribed Part 3 courses.
After the exam
On completing Part 3 you can register as an architect with the ARB. You also become eligible for RIBA Chartered Membership, and RIBA also offers associate membership during the course year.
Preparation tips
Keep your record of practical experience up to date from the start, because your assigned adviser monitors it.
Use the monthly study packs and case study webinars to build up your knowledge across the year, instead of leaving it to the end.
Join your study group and use the drop-in tutorials.
FAQs
Do I need Part 1 and Part 2 first?
Normally yes. RIBA expects Parts 1 and 2, or an equivalent qualification, before you join a Part 3 course.
Where can I take RIBA Part 3?
RIBA delivers its own course in Chester, London, Hong Kong and the UAE. Several UK universities also run ARB/RIBA Part 3 courses.
What does Part 3 lead to?
It lets you apply to register as an architect with the ARB, and it makes you eligible for RIBA Chartered Membership.