There are three registration pathways for foreign-educated or foreign-trained applicants. Each pathway has its individual eligibility and program requirements. Although the method of obtaining and assessing competencies varies slightly, applicants going through the various pathways are required to satisfy the same entry-to-practice competencies.
- Alternative qualifications – Foreign-trained architects ineligible to apply through mutual recognition agreements may apply though the Broadly Experienced Foreign-Trained Architect (BEFA) program to assess equivalencies of their acquired competencies against the Canadian competency standard. This national program administered by the Canadian Architecture Certification Board (CACB) involves standardized steps. Following successful completion of the BEFA program, applicants may apply for registration as an architect in any Canadian jurisdiction.
- Mutual recognition agreements – Foreign-trained architects registered in a jurisdiction outside Canada may qualify to register with any CALA jurisdiction under a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA), also known as registration by reciprocity. CALA regulators are signatories to multiple mutual recognition agreements.
- Internship in Architecture Program – Applicants ineligible to apply through mutual recognition agreements or do not meet the eligibility criteria of the BEFA program can complete the IAP program. Applicants will need to have obtained formal education in architecture and have this education certified by the CACB prior to applying to the IAP program.