If you do not have an approved academic qualification in architecture, the NSW Portfolio Program of Assessment (NSW PPA) provides an alternative pathway to registration as an architect in NSW.
The NSW PPA is a competency based 'assessment by portfolio' process and is administered by the NSW Architects Registration Board. The NSW PPA is only recognised in NSW.
Please download the Factsheet for more information.
Complete the form to apply for the NSW PPA.
Upon successful completion of the NSW PPA you can apply for the Architectural Practice Examination (APE) in NSW (only).
Upon successful completion of the APE you can apply for initial registration as an architect in NSW by completing Form 01 - Application for Initial Registration as an Architect in NSW.
Attend the free briefing session
For candidates planning to apply
NSW PPA Stage 1 & 2:
 |
2025 Candidate Briefing Monday, 7 April 2025, 5.30pm - 7.00pm |
Register |
2025 Timetable and fees for the NSW Portfolio Program of Assessment (NSW PPA)
| Stage 1 | Stage 2 | Stage 3 | |
| Applications open | 5 May 2025 | 29 September 2025 | |
| Applications close | 5pm, 2 June 2025 | 5pm, 27 October 2025 | |
| Invitations for interview | Emailed 18 July 2025 | ||
| Interviews dates | 4 August - 15 August 2025 |
1 December - 12 December 2025 |
|
| Results emailed | 11 July 2025 | 15 August 2025 | 17 December 2025 |
| Fees | $1,305 | $630* | $3,650 |
| Appeals | $1,055 | $1,055 | $1,055 |
| Stage 1 | |
| Applications open | 5 May 2025 |
| Applications close | 5pm, 2 June 2025 |
| Interview dates | |
| Results emailed | 11 July 2025 |
| Fees | $1,305 |
| Appeals | $1,055 |
| Stage 2 | |
| Invitations for interview | Emailed 18 July 2025 |
| Interviews date | 4 August - 15 August 2025 |
| Results emailed | 15 August 2025 |
| Fees | $630* |
| Appeals | $1,055 |
| Stage 3 | |
| Applications open | 29 September 2025 |
| Applications close | 5pm, 27 October 2025 |
| Interview dates | 1 December - 12 December 2025 |
| Results emailed | 17 December 2025 |
| Fees | $3,650 |
| Appeals | $1,055 |
* Payable at the time of Stage 1. $580 will be refunded to candidates who are unsuccessful in Stage 1.
