If earning your architectural license is one of your goals for 2027, AIA Northern Virginia wants to help you get there.

Formerly known as the AIA Northern Virginia ARE® Scholarship, our newly renamed Pathway to Licensure Program continues the same mission with a name that better reflects its purpose: supporting Northern Virginia Associate AIA members as they progress toward becoming licensed architects.

Licensure is a significant milestone in every architect’s career, but the cost of taking the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) can be a barrier. Through the Pathway to Licensure Program, AIA Northern Virginia invests in the future of the profession by helping one Associate AIA member offset those costs while recognizing their commitment to architecture, professional growth, and the AIA Northern Virginia community.

The selected participant is eligible to receive reimbursement for the cost of up to six ARE® exams within the 2027 calendar year. Reimbursement may be used for any combination of exam divisions and retakes, and is available regardless of whether the exam is passed.

This isn’t simply financial assistance, it’s an investment in emerging professionals who are actively shaping the future of architecture through leadership, volunteerism, and engagement in their communities.

Applications are now open, and we encourage all eligible Associate AIA members to apply. Submissions will be reviewed by a jury of recently licensed architects who understand both the challenges and rewards of the licensure journey. The jury will evaluate applicants based on their passion for pursuing licensure and their contributions to the profession, their community, and the advancement of emerging professionals.

The 2026 recipient will be announced and recognized during AIA Northern Virginia’s Autumn Social on October 22, 2026.

If you’ve been working toward licensure and are looking for support along the way, we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. Whether you’re preparing for your first ARE division or your last, the Pathway to Licensure Program is designed to help you continue moving forward.

Applications are now being accepted. The deadline to submit is Sept. 16, 2026. We look forward to celebrating the next recipient this October!