The Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS) Kenya is the statutory body regulating the professions of architecture and quantity surveying under the Architects and Quantity Surveyors Act (Cap. 525). It conducts professional examinations for graduate architects and graduate quantity surveyors to qualify for full registration as professionals.
These exams assess practical competence after a minimum of 24 months of supervised postgraduate experience. The summary below is for Year 2026 applicants, based on the official requirements (as published in January 2026). Any deficiencies in applications or documents may lead to disqualification.
Official Source: Visit the BORAQS website at boraqs.or.ke for downloads, including the full PDF of Examination Requirements 2026, Exam Advert 2026, and application forms (e.g., Form B1). Contact the secretariat for manuals, trainings, and clarifications.
Key Eligibility Notes:
- Applicants must have a minimum of 24 months postgraduate experience under supervision.
- Must be a member in good standing with an approved professional association (e.g., Architectural Association of Kenya – AAK or relevant body).
- Mandatory attendance at all BORAQS-conducted trainings.
- Possession of the Architects or Quantity Surveyors Manual (available from BORAQS offices) by both applicant and trainer.
- Proof of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): reflector jacket, helmet, safety boots, gloves.
- For onsite training: proof of Personal Accident Insurance cover.
- Non-East African citizens: valid work permits.
- Name changes: attach marriage certificate or deed poll if names differ from academic documents.
1. Personal Details and Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit:
| Requirement | Details/Attachments |
|---|---|
| Full Names | As per ID/passport |
| Copy of Kenya ID or Passport | Mandatory |
| Academic Certificates & Transcripts | In English; certified by issuing institution |
| Marriage Certificate/Deed Poll | If names differ from ID/academics |
| Valid Work Permit | For non-East African citizens |
| Membership in Good Standing | With approved professional association (prior to application) |
| Proof of Manual Possession | Architects/Quantity Surveyors Manual (applicant & trainer) |
| Proof of PPE | Reflector jacket, helmet, safety boots, gloves |
| Personal Accident Insurance | For onsite training |
| Attendance at Trainings | Must attend all BORAQS trainings |
2. Resitting an Examination
- Provide a copy of previous examination results.
- Re-sit fees apply (see below).
3. Employment and Supervision Details
Official letters from employer/supervisor must certify:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Period of Employment | Exact dates covering minimum 24 months postgraduate experience |
| Projects Involved In | Description of projects worked on |
| Chief Trainer/Supervisor | Name, BORAQS Registration Number; must have minimum 2 years post-registration experience and in good standing |
| Referees/Supervisors | Letters from TWO registered persons (in good standing) who supervised/trained you; include registration number, contact, signature |
4. Examination Fees (2026)
All payments to National Bank of Kenya, Hill Branch:
- Account Name: BORAQS
- Account No: 01241031524900
Or via banker’s cheque in favour of BORAQS. Receipt must be in applicant’s name.
| Fee Item | Amount (KES) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Examination Application Form Processing | 3,000.00 | Non-refundable |
| Paper One (I) | 15,000.00 | – |
| Paper Two (II) | 15,000.00 | – |
| Paper Three Orals (III) | 15,000.00 | – |
| Full Examination (All Papers) | 45,000.00 | Standard first-time |
| Re-sitting (per paper or overall) | 20,000.00 | For failed papers/resits |
Note: Fees do not cover CPDs, E-logbook training, or site visits.
Application Process Tips
- Download forms and requirements from boraqs.or.ke (under Downloads or Examinations section).
- Submit complete applications with all certified documents.
- Ensure supervisors/trainers are registered and in good standing.
- For inquiries: Contact BORAQS secretariat (details on website, e.g., phone numbers often listed as 0726 243 005 or similar in announcements).
This guide summarizes the BORAQS 2026 professional examinations requirements and fees for graduate architects and quantity surveyors in Kenya—essential for those pursuing full registration after supervised experience. Prepare early, attend mandatory trainings, and ensure all proofs are in place to avoid disqualification.
For the most accurate and updated information, download the official “Examination Requirements 2026” PDF from boraqs.or.ke or contact the Board directly. Success in these exams opens the door to professional practice in Kenya’s built environment sector!
