Canadian Architectural Certification Board
Since 1976, the CACB has been the primary point of contact for graduates of professional architecture programs pursuing licensure and serves as your link to becoming a licensed architect in Canada.
Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in Architectural Certification and Accreditation in Canada
The Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades as the national authority for architectural education certification and program accreditation in Canada. As the sole organization recognized by the profession, CACB plays a critical role in assessing academic qualifications, accrediting university programs, and supporting pathways to licensure for both Canadian and internationally trained architects.
This milestone reflects CACB’s enduring contribution to maintaining rigorous national standards and advancing the integrity of the architectural profession, while continuing to support future generations of architects across Canada
Explore Our Programs and Services
Accreditation
Accreditation accredits professional degree programs that meet established educational Conditions through ongoing evaluation. In Canada, the CACB is the sole organized authorized to accredit university-level architecture programs.
Academic Certification
Academic certification assesses an individual’s architectural education against the Canadian Education Standard (CES). This is the first of three mandatory step towards licensure, followed by Internship (IAP) and Examination (ExAC).
Education Credential Assessment (ECA)
An educational credential assessment is a report that assesses whether an individual’s foreign educational credential is authentic and determines if it is equivalent to a Canadian educational credential for immigration purposes.
Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA) Certification
The Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect Program is an alternative pathway to licensure for foreign licensed architects. BEFA assesses the broad professional experience of foreign-trained architects against the Canadian Standard of Competency for Architects.
News & Announcements
In Memory of Dr. Branko Kolarevic
The Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) is saddened to share the news of the passing of Branko Kolarevic. He passed away on January 29, surrounded by his family. Dr. Kolarevic served as a CACB Director from 2011 to 2014 …
CACB Dec. 2025 Newsletter is now available
This issue includes updates on CACB activities and developments across the Academic Certification, Architectural Accreditation, and BEFA Certification programs. Please refer to the newsletter for more details.
IRCC designates CACB as the educational credential assessment (ECA) organization for architects
The Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) is pleased to announce its designation by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as the professional body to issue educational credential assessments …