X
30% Off
All Memberships (ends Nov. 30)
Study Smarter, Spend Less.

Programming & Analysis (PA)

ARE 5.0 Programming & Analysis (PA) Study Guide

Master site analysis, building programming, and code compliance with comprehensive study materials that prepare you to evaluate project requirements and design concepts.

Start Studying Today
ARE 5.0 Programming & Analysis (PA) Study Guide

PA Pass Rates 39% Higher Than NCARB Average

Black Spectacles testers pass PA 85% vs the NCARB average of 61%

Students who prepare with Black Spectacles pass the PA exam at rates up to 39% 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 PA 85% vs the NCARB average of 61%

What is the Programming & Analysis (PA) Exam?

The PA division of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE 5.0) focuses on assessing a candidate’s ability to gather and analyze project data — including site, program, and environmental factors — to inform design concepts and technical solutions.

Programming & Analysis (PA)

Exam Format and Structure

The PA exam evaluates your ability to synthesize environmental, contextual, and programmatic information into feasible project strategies. You’ll answer questions based on scenarios, site data, and case studies.

Pass Rates and Statistics

National pass rates for PA typically average around 61%, but Black Spectacles students consistently outperform this through focused, goal-oriented study.

Exam Duration and Question Types

You’ll have 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete 95 questions, including multiple-choice items and two detailed case studies.

Start Studying for PA Today!

What the PA Exam Covers

1. Environmental and Contextual Conditions

Assesses your ability to analyze site and climate data, evaluate sustainability considerations, and apply environmental strategies to design decisions.

2. Codes and Regulations

Test your knowledge of applicable zoning, building codes, and environmental regulations that impact site selection and project programming.

3. Site Analysis and Programming

Focuses on evaluating existing site conditions, infrastructure, and spatial requirements to develop a project program and identify opportunities and constraints.

4. Building Analysis and Project Typologies

Covers how to assess building form, orientation, and systems integration during early design and programming phases.

Programming & Analysis (PA)

What's Unique about the PA

Programming & Analysis is the first "project phase" division, focusing on everything that happens before design begins. The exam tests your ability to evaluate sites, analyze zoning regulations, interpret building codes, and translate client needs into a comprehensive building program. Unlike later divisions, PA emphasizes analysis and evaluation over design decisions—you're gathering and organizing information, not yet solving design problems.

Black Spectacles Guided Study Process

Recommended Study Timeline

Most candidates spend 6–8 weeks preparing for PA. 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 (Environmental & Contextual Conditions and Codes & Regulations). Learn site analysis factors like topography, climate, and zoning. Use video lectures to understand code navigation and flashcards for ADA requirements and building codes.

  • Weeks 3-4: Focus on Section 4 (Building Analysis & Programming)—the largest portion of this exam at 37-43% of questions. Practice calculating net-to-gross ratios, creating adjacency diagrams, and evaluating building systems using quizzes.

  • Weeks 5-6: Review all sections with emphasis on weak areas. Practice applying concepts to scenario-based questions using quizzes to test your understanding across all four sections.

  • Weeks 7-8: Take full-length practice exams with emphasis on time management. PA is known for tight timing, so practice navigating the IBC quickly during case studies.

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 PA 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 PA 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 PA Exam? 

Join thousands of candidates who’ve passed with Black Spectacles.
 
Start Studying for PA Today!

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 PA exam?

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

What is a passing score for the PA 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 PA exam hard?

The PA exam can be challenging because it covers early design analysis and programming concepts that require both technical and creative thinking. With structured prep, you can pass with confidence.

Can I take the PA exam online?

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

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 PA exam.