Intern Exam Prep · The Blog

Guides & strategy for the ExAC

Plain-language breakdowns of the Examination for Architects in Canada: how it works, what to study, which references actually matter, and how to walk in on exam day ready. Written for Intern Architects, by people who have been through it.

Getting Started 🏛️ ⏱ 11 min read

What Is the ExAC? Your Complete 2026 Guide to the Examination for Architects in Canada

New to the licensing path? Here is the whole picture in one place: what the ExAC tests, the four sections, who can sit it, how it is scored, and what to do if you do not pass a section the first time.

IE IEP Editorial Team
May 28, 2026
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Study Strategy 🗓️ ⏱ 10 min read

How to Build an ExAC Study Plan That Actually Holds Up

A realistic 12-week framework: how to map the official Study Plan, prioritize high-yield references, and protect your weeks from burning out before exam day.

IE IEP Editorial Team
May 14, 2026
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Resources 📚 ⏱ 11 min read

The Essential ExAC Reference Library: The Books You Actually Need

CHOP, the NBC, CCDC contracts, the RAIC documents, Yardsticks. There are dozens of references on the list, so here is what each one is for and where to spend your time.

IE IEP Editorial Team
April 30, 2026
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Code & Technical 📐 ⏱ 10 min read

Mastering the National Building Code (NBC 2020) for the ExAC

You will not memorize the whole code, and you do not need to. Learn how the NBC is structured, what gets tested, and how to find an answer fast when the clock is running.

IE IEP Editorial Team
April 12, 2026
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Exam Tips ⚠️ ⏱ 8 min read

10 ExAC Mistakes That Cost Intern Architects the Exam

Most people who struggle with the ExAC do not fail on knowledge. They fail on habits. These are the ten traps we see most often, and how to sidestep each one.

IE IEP Editorial Team
March 26, 2026
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Comparisons ⚖️ ⏱ 8 min read

IEP vs Examitect: Which ExAC Prep Fits How You Study?

Both are built for the ExAC. Here is how IEP and Examitect differ in format, depth, and study style, so you can pick what fits how you learn.

IE IEP Editorial Team
June 1, 2026
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Comparisons ⚖️ ⏱ 7 min read

IEP vs Simply Exam: Comparing Your ExAC Options

How does IEP compare to Simply Exam? A fair look at format, depth, and what each approach is best suited for.

IE IEP Editorial Team
May 30, 2026
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Comparisons ⚖️ ⏱ 7 min read

IEP vs Brainscape: Curated Prep or Flashcard App?

Brainscape is a strong flashcard app, but it is not built for the ExAC. Here is how a curated, guided IEP approach compares.

IE IEP Editorial Team
May 27, 2026
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Comparisons ⚖️ ⏱ 7 min read

IEP vs Quizlet: Which One Actually Prepares You?

Quizlet is great for general study, but the ExAC needs more than user-made flashcards. Here is how IEP compares for Canadian licensure.

IE IEP Editorial Team
May 24, 2026
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Comparisons ⚖️ ⏱ 7 min read

IEP vs ArchQuiz Canada: Comparing ExAC Prep Tools

How does IEP compare to a quiz-focused tool like ArchQuiz Canada? A look at notes, reasoning, audio, and question practice.

IE IEP Editorial Team
May 21, 2026
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