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About this exam

The Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA) is the professional body for architects in Sri Lanka. It began as the Ceylon Institute of Architects (CIA), established in 1956 by a small group of foreign-qualified architects, several of whom also held membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Its inaugural meeting was held on 11th September 1957 at the Tea Propaganda Board on Prince Street in the Colombo Fort, with twelve architects present. After adopting a constitution modelled on that of the British Institute of Architects, the CIA sought allied-society status with the RIBA, which it achieved in 1960, by which time membership had risen to 30. With RIBA encouragement, including from then RIBA President Sir Basil Spence, and assistance from RIBA Secretary C.D. Spragg, a School of Architecture attached to the Institute of Practical Technology, Katubedda, was established in 1961. In 1976, through a private member's motion by the then Minister of Housing and Construction, the Hon. Pieter Keuneman, the CIA was incorporated as the SLIA by the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects Law No.1 of 1976. This page introduces the Part II credential for candidates; the published source does not enumerate the Part II syllabus, assessment format, fees, duration, pass mark, or retake rules, so treat those details as unconfirmed until SLIA publishes them. Prepare by studying architectural design and professional practice broadly, and verify all administrative particulars directly with the Institute.

What you'll study

Common questions

About SLIA Part II preparation

What is the SLIA Part II?

It is the professional qualification stage of the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects, the body incorporated by the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects Law No.1 of 1976. The published SLIA source does not list the Part II syllabus, so confirm current content and eligibility with the Institute before planning.

Who should sit the Part II examination?

Candidates progressing toward professional architectural recognition in Sri Lanka. The source material does not state Part II entry requirements, so check the current SLIA regulations for prerequisite qualifications and any required practical experience rather than relying on second-hand summaries.

What does the exam cover?

The available source does not enumerate Part II subjects. Expect architectural design and professional practice to be central, but treat any specific topic list as provisional. Always obtain the current syllabus and reading list from SLIA directly.

How long is the exam and what is the format?

The source does not state duration, question counts, or whether the assessment is written, oral, or portfolio-based. None of these values can be confirmed here. Ask SLIA for the current examination timetable and format before booking study time.

What is the pass mark and exam fee?

Neither is published in the source consulted, so both remain unconfirmed. Do not budget from outdated figures. Request the current fee schedule and marking or grading rules from the Institute when you register.

Can I retake the exam if I fail?

Retake policy is not stated in the source. The number of attempts, waiting periods, and any re-registration fees are unknown here. Confirm the rules in writing with SLIA before your first attempt so you understand the consequences of an unsuccessful result.

How should I order my preparation?

Start with design studio skills and professional practice fundamentals, since these are the most likely core areas, then add Sri Lankan building regulation and contract knowledge. Because the official syllabus is not reproduced here, build your plan around the current SLIA-published requirements.

What are common failure modes?

Candidates typically lose marks through weak design resolution, poor time management under exam conditions, and thin professional-practice knowledge such as contracts and regulations. Since detailed examiner guidance is not in the source, ask SLIA or past candidates about marking expectations.

Where can I verify official details?

The Sri Lanka Institute of Architects website, slia.lk, is the authoritative source for notices, regulations, and examination announcements. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by SLIA; always cross-check dates and requirements there.