Q1

What does this MOU cover? Does it cover academic qualifications as well as professional qualifications?

A1

This MOU only covers mutual recognition of architectural academic qualifications, i.e. Part 1 and Part 2 qualifications. It does not cover professional qualification, i.e. Part 3 qualification.

Eligible individuals holding Part 1 and/or Part 2 qualifications accredited by ARBUK can benefit from direct recognition by HKIA and ARBHK, and  they would be eligible for sitting the HKIA/ARBHK Professional Assessment (Part 3 examination), under the same arrangements as graduates of local qualifications accredited by HKIA and ARBHK. They are not required to go through the Academic Qualification Assessment (AQA) which is normally required for applicants holding qualifications not recognized by HKIA/ ARBHK.

Eligible individuals holding Part 1 and/or Part 2 qualifications accredited by HKIA and ARBHK can benefit from direct recognition by ARBUK, and  they would only need to complete an ARB-accredited Part 3 qualification to be eligible to join the UK Register, while those with a degree level qualification will only need to complete Part 2 and Part 3.

https://arb.org.uk/international-routes/arb-and-hkia-mou/

Q2

What is the effective date of the MOU? Would only the qualifications obtained after the effective date be recognized under this MOU?

A2

The MOU was signed on 28 August 2024, but accredited qualifications obtained before that date are also recognized.

A qualification is recognized if it is obtained when the accreditation by ARBUK or HKIA/ARBHK is valid.

Q3

Is this MOU only applicable to UK and HK citizens?

A3

This MOU is not restricted to UK and HK citizens. All graduates of the accredited qualifications can benefit from the MOU.

Q4

Would overseas academic qualifications accredited by ARBUK or HKIA/ARBHK be covered under this MOU?

A4

Overseas qualifications accredited are not covered under this MOU.

Q5

What do I need to provide to HKIA or ARBUK in order to seek recognition?

A5

ARBUK or HKIA will in the first instance provide you with an MOU certificate. There is a charge for this certificate which must be obtained before you apply to ARBUK or HKIA. You will need to present the MOU certificate together with copies of your Part 1 and/or Part 2 certificates and valid ID.

Q6

How will I receive my certificate?

A6

Once your application form has been reviewed and accepted, your certificate will be sent to the address you provided by post, and softcopy by email will be available upon request.

Q7

How long will it take to receive my certificate? 

The qualification verification and certificate printing process will take about FOUR weeks. Applicants are advised to allow ample time for the next steps in their application with ARBUK.