This guide walks through what AACA expects when assessing ANZSCO 232111 Architect. For pathway context, see the 232111 pathway guide. For worked numbers, see the 232111 cost & timeline case study.
Assessing authority
AACA — Architects Accreditation Council of Australia. NPrA (National Program of Assessment) is the architecture-specific migration skills pathway.
NPrA structure
- Stage 1 — Qualifications and Experience — academic transcript, degree certificate, registration evidence, employment evidence.
- Stage 2 — Logbook — detailed project log demonstrating competency across all 10 NSCA-aligned competency units.
- Stage 3 — National Examination Paper (NEP) — written exam covering Australian practice, building code (NCC), regulations, professional ethics — sat post-arrival.
- Stage 4 — Architectural Practice Examination (APE) — final oral interview / case-based assessment for state board registration.
Qualification requirements
- Recognised architecture degree at AQF Master level (or assessed equivalent) — typically RIBA / NAAB / NBAA / ARB-recognised programmes.
- Completed Practical Experience equivalent to Australian PEA (Practical Experience Assessment) — minimum 3,300 hours of relevant experience post-degree.
Employment evidence
- Project portfolio / logbook — evidence of projects across full design and delivery stages.
- Statements of Service on practice letterhead — start / end dates, position, FTE %, salary, signed by registered architect supervisor.
- Reference letters from registered architect supervisors at each previous practice.
- Sample drawing sets / project documentation demonstrating competency.
Common refusal patterns
Logbook competency gaps. Particularly contract administration / construction administration phases. AACA expects full project lifecycle evidence.
Post-occupancy / programming evidence weak. Many international architects have project-delivery focus only — programming (briefing) and post-occupancy evaluation are explicit NPrA competencies.
Confusing 232111 with 232112 Landscape Architect. Architecture (built environment / buildings) = 232111. Landscape = 232112.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) gaps. AACA NEP increasingly tests BIM literacy.
Code-fit check
232111 vs 232112 Landscape Architect. Buildings = 232111. Landscape design = 232112.
232111 vs 232411 Graphic Designer. Built environment design = 232111. Visual / brand / publication design = 232411.
232111 vs 233211 Civil Engineer. Architecture = building design. Civil engineering = structural / infrastructure / road / water / drainage.
Tools
- Document checklist — AACA NPrA evidence pack
- ANZSCO search — confirm 232111 vs 232112
- Eligibility wizard
- Visa fee calculator
Where to verify the rules
- AACA — Architects Accreditation Council of Australia
- Australian Institute of Architects
- NSW Architects Registration Board
- Architects Registration Board of Victoria
- Department of Home Affairs
Next step
Want a structured review of your AACA NPrA evidence pack for 232111? Book a 30-minute free strategy call.