Republic of the Philippines

Polytechnic University of the Philippines

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN,
AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Department of Architecture
NDC Compound, Sta. Mesa, Manila

IMPLEMENTING GUIDELINES FOR

THE ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING
EXAMINATION (AQE) AND
ADMISSION TO THE 3RD YEAR COURSE
OF STUDY-
2018 CURRICULUM FOR BACHELOR OF
SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE

Control No.: __________________

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 PREFACE

The Architecture Qualifying Examination (AQE) is a crucial step for 2nd year students as they
progress into their third year of study. This examination is mandatory for all 2nd year students and
serves as a means to assess their competence and determine their eligibility to continue their studies
toward a B.S. Architecture degree. The guidelines for the AQE were developed by the College of
Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment in response to the revised curriculum approved
by the University Academic Council for the Bachelor of Science in Architecture Program. These
guidelines aim to provide a clear understanding of the importance of the qualifying examination
and actively involve both parents and students through an AQE Orientation, ensuring that they are
fully aware of the requirements. In April 2003, Architect Ma. Rodora M. Argamino, the
Chairperson of the Architecture Department, prepared and presented a pamphlet containing these
guidelines under the guidance of Dean Gloria B. Teodoro. The first administration of the
examination took place in the same year, and although there have been revisions in its format and
content over time, the fundamental principles and objectives of the guidelines have remained
consistent, prioritizing clarity and simplicity in their explanation. Notably, the 2006 curriculum
introduced the inclusion of Electronics in Building Utilities 2, which subsequently influenced the
content covered in the AQE during that year.

However, the year 2020 brought about an unexpected challenge in the form of the COVID-19
pandemic, leading to the temporary suspension of the AQE program until the following academic
year, 2021-2022. Despite this setback, the Department of Architecture exhibited resilience and
adaptability by finding alternative methods to evaluate the capabilities and skills of the students.
Under the guidance of Chairperson Architect Anthony C. Yan and Dean Jocelyn A. Rivera-Lutap,
the department made it a priority to resume the AQE program as soon as feasible. In line with the
implementation of the 2018 curriculum, there have been significant changes to the 2nd year subject
offering. Building Utilities 2 is no longer part of the curriculum, making way for other subjects
that now form the basis of the AQE. These subjects, including Architectural Interiors, Tropical
Design, and Visual Techniques 3, have been carefully selected to ensure that the examination
encompasses the essential knowledge and skills required at the 2nd year level.

It is through the collective efforts of the faculty, administration, and the commitment of students
that the AQE program continues to evolve and maintain its relevance in preparing future architects.
The ongoing dedication to upholding the integrity and effectiveness of the AQE ensures that
students receive a robust assessment that aligns with the demands and standards of the architectural
profession.

[Sgd.] AR. ANTHONY C. YAN, UAP, PIEP

Chairperson - OIC
Department of Architecture
June 2023

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 Republic of the Philippines
Polytechnic University of the Philippines
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE, DESIGN,
AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Department of Architecture
NDC Compound, Sta. Mesa, Manila

IMPLEMENTING GUIDELINES FOR THE

ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAMINATION (AQE) AND
ADMISSION TO THE 3RD YEAR COURSE OF STUDY-
2018 CURRICULUM FOR BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE
1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Architecture Qualifying Examination (AQE) Guidelines shall be the implementing rules on the conduct
of the Architecture Qualifying Examination of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines College of
Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment. Students who are under the 2018 Curriculum for Bachelor
of Science in Architecture (BS Arch) who intend to continue the 3rd year course of study are required to have
taken and successfully completed the first and 2nd year program of study (equivalent to ninety-three (93) units
of course work) including National Service Training Program (NSTP), and the qualifying examination. The
AQE is intended to gauge the competency of the student to pursue higher study in the field of Architecture
by meeting established academic standards. This Guideline will help the student to understand the full
responsibility he/she will have to take when undergoing the qualifying examination. Students and their
parents/guardians should read and fully understand the content of these guidelines and are required to attend
the AQE Orientation.

2.0 RATIONALE

The PUP-CADBE Department of Architecture believes that the study of Architecture is a continuing effort
of discovering new ideas and improving the competitive edge of students, where the lines defining education,
training through actual experience, and examination must converge. In this model, knowledge and skills are
both acquired; thus enhancing the development and stature of our architecture students for a productive career
in the construction industry.

The AQE is an instrument to be used to pre-validate the student’s qualification to pursue the chosen field of
study and retain only competent students whose capabilities are within the standards of academic excellence.
The result of this performance evaluation will also determine the areas in which the student shows strength
or weakness and check his/her ability to assimilate, evaluate and synthesize subject matters applied in
architecture.

3.0 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Architecture Qualifying Examination. A tool to gauge the competency of the student to pursue higher
study in the field of architecture by meeting the established academic standards.

AQE. An acronym for Architecture Qualifying Examination

Grade Point per Subject (GPS). Grade Point x Credit Units

Grade Point Average (GPA). Result of every semester academic performance

GPA = Total Grade Points

Total Grade Unit

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4.0 THE ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAMINATION

4.1 PURPOSE

To test the student’s proficiency in architecture particularly acquired knowledge of the subject matter,
intellectual abilities and skills, application, synthesis, and evaluation to meet or exceed the performance
standard for the following eight (8) primary learning outcomes:

4.1.1 Mastery of oral and written communication skills necessary to function effectively pursuing
further study of architecture;

4.1.2 Competence in the appropriate use of design representation;

4.1.3 Competence in analysis and problem-solving;

4.1.4 Ability to apply the theoretical knowledge learned in all areas of their 1 st and 2nd year program
of study to the solution of simple architecture/environmental design challenges;

4.1.5 Understanding of the use of building materials and methods of construction for simple
buildings/structures

4.1.6 Understanding and capability to describe the context for design problem solving;

4.1.7 Understanding the importance of aesthetic values in the solution of architecture/environmental

challenges, and

4.1.8 Understanding the role of history and theory in the formulation of design solutions.

4.2 APPLICATION PROCEDURE

4.2.1 Application forms can be obtained from the Chairperson’s office.

4.2.2 Secure and fill up the application form. Form 1 AQE-S23 and the Report of Grades. All areas
of the application form must be completed properly together with the Report of Grades.

4.2.3 Completed application forms and all supporting documents must be received not later than the
application deadline date (see announcement for details). Applications that are not properly
filled up and received after the deadline will not be processed.

4.2.4 The list of approved applications will be posted after two (2) working days upon receipt of
the request.

4.3 COVERAGE OF THE ARCHITECTURE QUALIFYING EXAMINATION

The following information is intended to serve as a general guideline in helping students prepare for
AQE. Although the area examinations will be based on the specified topics, students are also advised to
consult with the Department Area Examiners, who may provide additional information or indicate any
changes in emphasis.

The exam is a closed book and notes. It is the policy of this department that any calculator used during
the exam may not be used to store user-defined programs. Cellular phones and any form of audio devices
are not permitted inside the examination rooms.

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The Architecture Qualifying Examination (AQE) consists of two parts:

4.3.1 PART 1

A one-day written examination covering the following course of study:

4.3.1.1 History of Architecture 1, 2, 3, & 4

4.3.1.1.1 Pre-Historic Architecture

4.3.1.1.1.1 Center for development

4.3.1.1.1.2 Dormen, menhir, cromlech

4.3.1.1.2 Historic Styles of Architecture

4.3.1.1.2.1 Period/extent and centers of development

4.3.1.1.2.2 Factors that affect the development of architectural style
(Historical, environmental, and socio-cultural)
4.3.1.1.2.3 General characteristics (architectural, structural, decorative)
4.3.1.1.2.4 General contributions
4.3.1.1.2.5 Notable examples

4.3.1.1.3 Ancient Architecture and the Western Succession

4.3.1.1.3.1 Pre-Classical Architecture

4.3.1.1.3.1.1 West Asiatic Architecture
4.3.1.1.3.1.2 Egyptian Architecture
4.3.1.1.3.2 Classical
4.3.1.1.3.2.1 Aegean and Greek Architecture
4.3.1.1.3.2.2 Etruscan and Roman Architecture
4.3.1.1.3.3 Early Christian
4.3.1.1.3.4 Byzantine

4.3.1.1.4 Romanesque to Post-Modern Times

4.3.1.1.4.1 Church Architecture

4.3.1.1.4.2 Romanesque Architecture
4.3.1.1.4.3 Gothic Architecture
4.3.1.1.4.4 Renaissance Period
4.3.1.1.4.5 Baroque and Rocco Architecture
4.3.1.1.4.6 Architecture in Colonial and Post-Colonial America
4.3.1.1.4.7 Architecture in Industrial Revolution
4.3.1.1.4.8 Architecture at the Beginning of the Twentieth Century
4.3.1.1.4.9 The International Style and Modernism
4.3.1.1.4.10 Contemporary Architecture

4.3.1.1.5 Asian Architecture

4.3.1.1.5.1 Islamic Architecture

4.3.1.1.5.2 Architecture of India
4.3.1.1.5.3 Architecture of China
4.3.1.1.5.4 Architecture of Japan
4.3.1.1.5.5 Architecture of Indonesia
4.3.1.1.5.6 Architecture of Thailand
4.3.1.1.5.7 Architecture of Cambodia
4.3.1.1.5.8 Architecture of Nepal and Tibet

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4.3.1.2 Theory of Architecture 1&2

4.3.1.2.1 Processes in Architectural Design

4.3.1.2.2 Elements of Architecture and Basic Principles of Design

4.3.1.2.2.1 Need specific elements

4.3.1.2.2.2 Structural, circulatory, protective and decorative elements
4.3.1.2.2.3 Influences in Architectural Design
4.3.1.2.2.4 Basic principles of design

4.3.1.2.3 Design Perception

4.3.1.2.3.1 Anthropometric basis of architectural design

4.3.1.2.3.2 Dimensions: Scale and proportion
4.3.1.2.3.3 Shape, form, and unity
4.3.1.2.3.4 Balance and gravitational curve
4.3.1.2.3.5 Visual acuity and perception
4.3.1.2.3.6 User Requirements and Perception of Space
4.3.1.2.3.7 Space articulation and territoriality
4.3.1.2.3.8 Kinesthetic quality of space
4.3.1.2.3.9 Chromatic Energy of Architectural Design
4.3.1.2.3.10 Light, color, and texture
4.3.1.2.3.11 Sign, symbols, and cultural basis of architectural design
4.3.1.2.3.12 Behavioral stress and Circuits
4.3.1.2.3.13 Building materials as an expression of architectural design
4.3.1.2.3.14 Construction methods and structures as an expression

4.3.1.2.4 Evaluation of Current Concepts and Masters in Architecture

4.3.1.2.4.1 Architectural Design Process and Technologies

4.3.1.2.4.2 Masters in Architecture
4.3.1.2.4.3 Functional Concepts and Interior Environment
4.3.1.2.4.4 Value, Aspiration, and Culture
4.3.1.2.4.5 Design and public policy
4.3.1.2.4.6 Activity Analysis and Linkages for Efficiency in Shelter
4.3.1.2.4.7 Environmental Concepts of Architectural Design
4.3.1.2.4.8 Energy Conservation and the Design Process

4.3.1.3 Building Technology 1&2

4.3.1.3.1 Building Construction Materials and Methods

4.3.1.3.1.1 Civil works

4.3.1.3.1.2 Carpentry and Joinery
4.3.1.3.1.3 Concrete and Masonry
4.3.1.3.1.4 Sheet Metal and Tinsmith
4.3.1.3.1.5 Structural Steel
4.3.1.3.1.6 Concrete and reinforced concrete
4.3.1.3.1.7 Waterproofing, damp proofing, and insulation
4.3.1.3.1.8 glass and glazing
4.3.1.3.1.9 painting and varnishing
4.3.1.3.1.10 Fenestration
4.3.1.3.1.11 Hardware
4.3.1.3.1.12 Specialized works (bank vaults, elevators, etc.)

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 4.3.1.3.2 Wood, Masonry, Reinforced Concrete, and Steel Construction for
one (1) Storey Building Structure

4.3.1.3.2.1 Working drawing documents, materials used in building

construction, and building construction methods
4.3.1.3.2.2 Basic working drawing and graphical presentation techniques

4.3.1.4 Building Utilities 1

4.3.1.4.1 Plumbing and Sanitary Services of Building

4.3.1.4.1.1 Water source, storage, supply and distribution

4.3.1.4.1.2 Plumbing roughing-in and fixtures
4.3.1.4.1.3 Drainage and Sewerage Systems
4.3.1.4.1.4 Waste disposal, treatment, and recycling

4.3.1.5 Architectural Graphics 1&2

4.3.1.5.1 Theories and principles of architectural drafting, lettering,

dimensioning & detailing.
4.3.1.5.2 Theories and Principles of Perspective, Shades, and Shadows.

4.3.1.6 Visual Techniques 1, 2, & 3

Application of Monochromatic Drawing, Color, Rendering, and Used of

Polychromatic Media. Advanced presentation techniques, model-making principles
and techniques, and Architectural Photography.

4.3.1.7 Architectural Interiors

4.3.1.7.1 Fundamental Tools of Space Planning, Design, and Analysis

Anthropometrics, Proxemics, and Ergonomics.
4.3.1.7.2 Color Basics, Color Identification Systems and Color Schemes
4.3.1.7.3 Color Illusions and Advance Scheme Principles
4.3.1.7.4 Visual Acuity and Perception
4.3.1.7.5 Natural and Artificial Lighting Systems
4.3.1.7.6 Indicative locations of Utility Elements
4.3.1.7.7 Materials for Interior
4.3.1.7.8 Furniture, Furnishing, and other Interior Elements.
4.3.1.7.9 Architectural Interiors Types
4.3.1.7.10 Period and Contemporary Styles

4.3.2 PART 2

A one-day Architectural Design Examination with emphasis on problem-solving activity,

which will test skills, at applying fundamental concepts in solving architecture problems based
on theoretical knowledge learned in:

4.3.2.1 History of Architecture 1, 2, 3, & 4

4.3.2.2 Theory of Architecture 1&2

4.3.2.3 Building Technology 1&2

4.3.2.4 Building Utilities 1

4.3.2.5 Architectural Graphics 1&2

4.3.2.6 Visual Techniques 1, 2, & 3

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 4.3.2.7 Architectural Interiors

And the following topics;

4.3.2.8 Basic Elements of Architecture, Planning, and Design of Simple Space

4.3.2.9 Architectural Design Process involving anthropometric, ergonomics and space-

interrelationship Matrix.

4.3.2.10 Creative Design stressing the value of natural lighting, ventilation, interior
microclimate, interior space, and landscape Design.

4.3.2.11 Design and Planning of Buildings/structures with emphasis on indigenous building

materials, appropriate construction principles, energy conservation, and Architectural
restoration and preservation.

4.4 FORMAT OF THE ARCHITECTURAL QUALIFYING EXAMINATIONS

The AQE will be administered once per year; in mid-August before enrollment begins for 1st and 2nd
semester. A student must notify the department AQE Review Committee by the end of the preceding
semester for the AQE. The exact date, place, and time will be announced four (4) weeks or one (1) month
before the schedule.

The exam will be held in two four-hour sessions for two consecutive days.

The exam will be four sets of questionnaires with equivalent grade weights;

4.4.1 PART 1

History of Architecture & Theory of Architecture ………..20%

Building Technology and Utilities………………………….20%
Architectural Graphics and Visual Techniques……………..10%
Architectural Interiors…………………………...………….10%

4.4.2 PART 2

Architectural Design………………………………………..40%

TOTAL…………….……………………………………..100%

Students must write all answers on the specified answer sheets. (Extra sheets of paper will be included
if they are needed). Students must turn in all answer sheets at the end of each session.

4.5 GRADING

4.5.1 Grading is Double-Blind: Both the student's and the examiner's identities are hidden.

4.5.2 The faculty who developed the question for a portion of the examination will check/grade it.
That portion of the examination will be graded by the same person for all the examinees.

4.5.3 A student must obtain an overall rating of at least 75% and a score no lower than the minimum
rating of 50% in each failed to pass the examination.

4.5.4 The Department Examination Review Committee will meet to evaluate the scores of each
student and to confirm whether they are sufficient for passing the exam.

4.5.5 The student’s identities will not be revealed until after the final approval of the review
committee.
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 4.5.6 As per the result announcement, only the student numbers are displayed on the list.

4.6 WARNINGS

4.6.1 The student should not approach potential examiners with specific questions aimed at
determining details of what the examiners intend to ask. The faculty members should not reply
to individual inquiries about question areas.

4.6.2 The student should not ask faculty examiners for an evaluation of performance, nor should
he/she argue the score of the examiners, either immediately after the exam or at a later time.
Except for clerical errors, no scores may be changed once the examiners have submitted them
to the department.

4.6.3 Both student and faculty members who will be proven guilty of such violation will take
appropriate disciplinary action for non-observance of the university norms.

4.7 RETAKE

A student can take the examination at most two times only if the student failed to pass the exam for the
first time, he/she will be allowed to enroll in minor subjects only for the next semester. If the student
failed to pass the exam for the second time, he/she will be dismissed from the Department of Architecture
as recommended by the Department Examination Review Committee and for final approval of the Dean.

4.8 WHAT PASSING THE EXAM MEANS

4.8.1 The exam is intended both as a “fundamental exam” and a tool to assess the readiness and
ability of the student to pursue higher study in the field of architecture by meeting established
academic standards.

4.8.2 Students who pass the AQE are permitted to continue the 3 rd year program of study and finish
the Degree Program in Bachelor of Science in Architecture.

5.0 ADMISSION TO 3RD YEAR LEVEL-BS ARCHITECTURE

5.1 RULES FOR STUDENTS ENTERING IN 3RD YEAR LEVEL

The Department of Architecture Faculty Committee (DAFC) approves whether the student is to be
admitted to the 3rd year level of enrolled architecture program. The following criteria are used in
determining the admissibility:

5.1.1 Scholastic competence as determined by his/her 1st year and 2nd year academic records,
including grades, class ranks, faculty adviser’s evaluation and comments (Approval signature
for undertaking the AQE), and Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of at least 3.0 on all
course work completed.

Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) = Grand Total of Cumulative Grade Points
Grand Total of Cumulative Credit Units

The Faculty of Architecture evaluates students and recommends those who in their judgement
demonstrate those qualities necessary for the successful study and practice of architecture.
Among others, these qualities include academic achievement, good communication skills,
integrity, diversity of interests, and motivation. The Committee considers the quality of all
academic accomplishments of each student, as well as extracurricular experiences that
demonstrate the student’s initiative and creativity.

5.1.2 Satisfactory performance on the AQE. In order to pass, a student must obtain an overall rating
of at least 75% and a score no lower than the minimum rating of 50% in each field.

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6.0 AQE FACULTY COMMITTEES

There are two faculties that will be formed for AQE: the Department Qualifying Examination Review
Committee and the Test Administrators Committee.

6.1 DEPARTMENT QUALIFYING EXAMINATION REVIEW COMMITTEE

6.1.1 COMPOSITION

The Review Committee shall be composed of the Department Head as Chairperson and the
Architectural Design Advisers of the preceding year as members.

6.1.2 FUNCTION

6.1.2.1 Reviews and approves applications to the AQE;

6.1.2.2 Confirms the examination results;

6.1.2.3 Issues Certificate of Ability for the Study of Architecture;

6.1.2.4 Recommends student who will no longer be considered to be in B.S. Architecture

program if he/she failed the examination;

6.1.2.5 Decides about complaint/s and appeals made by the student;

6.1.2.6 Finishes the evaluation not later than three (3) days after the submission, date, and
submits the same to the Head of the Review Committee, and

6.1.2.7 Communicates the results of the examination to the CADBE Dean and seek approval
to post the examination results.

6.2 TEST ADMINISTRATORS COMMITTEE

6.2.1 COMPOSITION

The Test Administrators Committee shall be composed of designated regular/temporary regular

faculty members who will prepare, administer, check, evaluate the grades, and submit to the
Review Committee the result of the examination.

6.2.2 FUNCTION

6.2.2.1 Prepares schedule of examination and room assignment;

6.2.2.2 Provides a reading list that, at most, coverage of the examination for which the student
is required to review. May also provide a few references to help the student focus on
areas of study;

6.2.2.3 Prepares a set of questionnaires to be given, collected from past examinations given
by their former instructors/professors;

6.2.2.4 Assigns faculty proctors and brief each on the manner of supervising the examination
before the scheduled dates of AQE;

6.2.2.5 Checks and evaluates grade results;

6.2.2.6 Finish the evaluation of grades not later than a week after the last day of the
examination, and

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 6.2.2.7 Submits a summary report of the examination results indicating the person-in-charge
who checked and approved the validity of examination results, signed and sealed in a
long brown envelope.

Submitted by:

[Sgd.] AR. ANTHONY C. YAN, UAP, PIEP

Chairperson
Department of Architecture

Approved by:

[Sgd.] AR. JOCELYN A. RIVERA-LUTAP, DPA, FUAP

Dean
College of Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment

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