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Construction & Evaluation (CE)

ARE 5.0 Construction & Evaluation (CE) Study Guide

Prepare for construction administration, project evaluation, and post-occupancy responsibilities with ARE 5.0 study materials covering RFIs, submittals, and site observation.

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ARE 5.0 Construction & Evaluation (CE) Study Guide

CE Pass Rates 48% Higher Than NCARB Average

Black Spectacles testers pass CE 90% vs the NCARB average of 61%

Students who prepare with Black Spectacles pass the CE exam at rates up to 48% higher than the national average.

Our proven study system combines practice exams that mirror the real NCARB exam, expert-led video lectures, quiz breaks built into each lesson, and flashcards directly tied to key lecture terms—so you can learn faster, retain more, and walk into test day with total confidence.

Black Spectacles testers pass CE 90% vs the NCARB average of 61%

What is the Construction & Evaluation (CE) Exam?

The CE division of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE 5.0) focuses on your ability to administer construction contracts, evaluate construction progress, and manage project quality and performance.

Construction & Evaluation (CE)

Exam Format and Structure

The CE exam evaluates your understanding of construction contract administration, field observation, and performance evaluation. You’ll apply your knowledge of agreements, codes, and construction techniques to real-world project scenarios.

Pass Rates and Statistics

National pass rates for CE typically average around 61%, but Black Spectacles students consistently outperform this through structured, targeted study.

Exam Duration and Question Types

You’ll have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete 95 questions, including case studies and drag-and-place items designed to simulate on-site decision-making.

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What the CE Exam Covers

1. Preconstruction Activities

Covers preparing bids, negotiating contracts, and understanding procurement methods that influence project delivery.

2. Construction Observation

Evaluates your ability to interpret drawings and specifications, identify construction issues, and manage site communication.

3. Administrative Procedures and Protocols

Test your knowledge of submittals, RFIs, change orders, and progress documentation throughout the construction phase.

4. Project Closeout and Evaluation

Assesses your understanding of punch lists, warranties, and post-occupancy evaluation to ensure project performance meets design intent.

Construction & Evaluation (CE)

What's Unique about the CE

Construction & Evaluation focuses on the construction administration phase—what happens after construction documents are complete. This exam tests your ability to observe construction, respond to RFIs, evaluate submittals, manage change orders, and handle project closeout. Unlike earlier divisions focused on design, CE emphasizes the architect's role as construction observer and contract administrator.

Black Spectacles Guided Study Process

Recommended Study Timeline

Most candidates spend 6–8 weeks preparing for CE. Break your study plan into weekly goals and milestones using our built-in Guided Study Process to stay organized and on track.

  • Weeks 1-2: Focus on Sections 1-2 (Preconstruction Activities and Construction Observation). Learn submittal review procedures, construction sequencing, and observation responsibilities. Use video lectures to understand CA phase services and flashcards for construction terminology and AIA document provisions.

  • Weeks 3-4: Study Sections 3-4 (Administrative Procedures and Project Closeout). Master RFI responses, change order procedures, and payment applications. Our practical application videos demonstrate real-world CA scenarios you'll see on the exam.

  • Weeks 5-6: Practice Section 5 content (Construction Integration) which addresses how systems are actually built and installed. Use quizzes with construction photos to test your ability to identify field conditions and compliance issues.

  • Weeks 7-8: Take full-length practice exams focusing on construction observation scenarios. CE includes many photo-based questions, so practice evaluating visual construction conditions under timed pressure.

Recommended Study Timeline

Black Spectacles offers two ways to prepare:

  • Guided Study provides a structured plan aligned with your exam schedule, helping you stay focused with clear daily tasks and milestones.
  • Flexible Study gives you the freedom to move through the material at your own pace and in any order that fits your learning style.
Choose Your Study Mode: Guided Study or Flexible Study

Black Spectacles CE Study Materials

Learn what study tactics to pass the ARE 5.0, how to take advantage of Black Spectacles suite of study materials and how to study to pass the ARE 5.0 exams.

Expert-Led Study Materials

Black Spectacles provides a complete ecosystem of study resources created by licensed architects who understand your challenges. Our comprehensive study platform includes:

Video Lectures  Video lectures that break down complex topics into manageable segments

Practice Exams Practice tests mirroring the actual exam format and difficulty

Digital Flashcards Digital flashcards for quick review sessions

Real-World Practice  Real-World Practices to help you work through difficult problems live, with the support of your peers and a registered architect coach.

Guided Study Process The Guided Study Process organizes your study content into daily, manageable study time, including breaks, that align with your exam date.

Start Studying for CE Today!

There is a science to learning.
There is an optimal way to study. 

 

2x Faster Licensure

Black Spectacles members report completing licensure in half the time of the NCARB average.

Black Spectacles (Speed to Pass)

40% Higher Pass Rate

Our pass rate surpasses the national average by more than 40%

Black Spectacles (Pass Rate)

Ready to Pass the CE Exam? 

Join thousands of candidates who’ve passed with Black Spectacles.
 
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Strategic Exam Order: Your Blueprint for Success

While NCARB allows candidates to take the divisions in any order, analysis of thousands of successful candidates reveals clear patterns for success. We recommend this strategic sequence:

Your Road to Licensure in 12 Months

Month 1

PcM

Month 2

PjM

Month 3

PA

Month 4

Break

Break

Retake

Retake

Month 5 - Month 6

PPD

Month 7 - Month 8

PDD

Month 9

Break

Break

Retake

Retake

Month 10

CE

Month 11

Break

Break

Retake

Retake

Month 12

Licensed Licensed

Frequently asked questions

How long should I study for the CE exam?

Most candidates spend 6–8 weeks preparing, studying around 10–15 hours per week.

What is a passing score for the CE exam?

NCARB uses a scaled score system. You’ll need to meet or exceed the passing threshold set for your version of the exam.

Is the CE exam hard?

The CE exam tests your ability to apply construction knowledge in practical, real-world scenarios. With a structured study plan, you can pass confidently..

Can I take the CE exam online?

Yes. NCARB offers both in-person and online proctored options for all ARE 5.0 divisions, including CE.

How can Black Spectacles help me pass?

Black Spectacles provides a complete suite of ARE 5.0 study materials—featuring video lectures, practice exams, flashcards, and a guided study process designed to help you master every topic tested on the CE exam.