The Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA) Program is an alternative pathway for foreign licensed architects to become eligible for licensure with the OAA. It was developed by the Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities (CALA) and is administered by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB).
The BEFA Program assesses broadly based experience of foreign architects against the Canadian Standard of Competency for Architects.
Applicants who meet BEFA's eligibility requirements can apply for BEFA Certification through a process which consists of an online demonstration of competency and an interview with an assessment panel comprised of Canadian architects.
Successful BEFA applicants are granted BEFA Certification, which represents recognition of compliance with the Canadian Standard of Competency for Architects.
BEFA Certification allows you to apply for licensure as an architect with the OAA. More information about BEFA can be found here: https://befa-aeve.ca/overview/
NOTE: Applicants with a BEFA certification are still required to meet the following requirements to be eligible for licensure with the OAA:
- Be of good character
- 18 years of age or older
- Be either a citizen of Canada or a permanent resident of Canada, or is a
- member of an organization of architects that is recognized by Council.
Applications and Guidelines
Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect (BEFA) Application