International perspective: becoming an architect in the UK

For any students considering becoming an architect in the UK, here are some tips to help you understand the qualification process. 

To register as an architect in the UK, there is a mandatory requirement to have completed a minimum of 24 months of professional practical experience, alongside gaining the typical parts 1, 2 and 3 qualifications. 

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I began my journey as an international student from Cyprus.

During the final three years of my secondary education, I chose to focus on the sciences, taking advanced mathematics and advanced physics to be eligible to apply to architecture schools. 

At the same time, I independently studied for an A level in maths, which isn’t usually taken as part of the public education system in Cyprus. This wasn’t compulsory but was a beneficial qualification for entry to architectural schools abroad. 

Alongside my studies, I worked on my portfolio, which is required by the majority of architecture schools for entry to their undergraduate programmes. I applied to and received an offer for the BA architecture (honours) course from Sheffield School of Architecture at the University of Sheffield.

I have recently graduated from the University of Sheffield and so have completed the part 1 qualification.  

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As required by the Royal Institute of British Architects, I am now working for the next 12 months at an architectural practice in London, as a part 1 architectural assistant. During this year, I will gain practical and technical experience, rather than purely creative; cultivating skills that allow us to realise our designs.  

After this practical experience, I will do a two-year master’s in architecture (which is the part 2 qualification) during which we further develop as designers and expand our knowledge and skills. The final step is another 12 months in industry, working as a part 2 architectural assistant and studying towards the part 3 exam.  

This means, to be able to legally use the title “architect”, which is a protected title in the UK, and fully qualify through the traditional route, a minimum of seven years of consistent hard work are needed.  

What does that entail for international students?  

The journey is undeniably long, and architecture is a demanding subject but, in my humble opinion, it is worth it. Not only because the quality of education is of a high standard, but crucial contextual and environmental issues are addressed.  

However, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) is aiming to change the route to qualification to make the profession more financially accessible (currently full-time education requires five years of fees). While international experiences will continue to vary among students, I hope the profession does become more accessible, providing opportunities to all.   

Another significant benefit of studying and qualifying in the UK is the plethora of available opportunities I would not have had if I was living in Cyprus.