LARE Passing Rates

What are the Passing Rates for the LARE?
The LARE is an exam composed of five separate tests called sections.  Three sections (Section A, Section B, and Section D) are computer-based, multiple-choice tests.  Two of the sections are graphic exams (Section C and Section E) with solutions drawn on 11x17 base sheets.  East section tests different aspects and core competencies required of licensed landscape architects.

LARE Passing Rate Overview
Each section has it's own passing success rate.  These rates fluctuate from year to year.  The chart below shows the average passing rate for each section of the LARE between 2004 and 20011.

Section A Pass Rate
Section A is a multiple-choice exam and has an average pass rate of 72% based sample data from 2004 to 2011.

Section B Pass Rate
Section B is also a multiple-choice exam.  The pass rate for Section B is 75%

Section C Pass Rate
Section C is a graphic vignette exam that tests your ability to use design principles and practices in a way that does not endanger the health, safety, and welfare of the public.  The pass rate for Section C is 50%.

Section D Pass Rate
Section D is the most difficult of the multiple-choice exams with the low average pass rate of 63%.

Section E Pass Rate
Section E is another difficult graphic vignette exam.  The passing rate for Section E is only 37%.

Related Articles:



http://lare-exam-preparation-and-study-guide.blogspot.com/2011/09/lare-section-d-passing-rates.html

LARE Section D Passing Rates

What is the Passing Rate for Section D of the LARE?

Section D of the LARE is a multiple-choice, computer-based exam that is offered in March and August.  The average passing rate is about 63 percent which makes this section the most challenging multiple-choice test on the LARE.  Look at the chart below.

Section D of the LARE has an average passing rate of 63% during the sample period.
Based on the data, it seems that fewer people are passing the test recently. 

More Section D Passing Rate Data

	LARE Section D Passing Rates (August 2004-March 2011)
	2011 - March	64%
	2010 - September	51%
	2010 - March	64%
	2009 - September	58%
	2009 - March	58%
	2008 - September	61%
	2008 - March	61%
	2007 - September	61%
	2007 - March	62%
	2006 - October	61%
	2006 - April	63%
	2005 - October	70%
	2005 - July	69%
	2005 - April	74%
	2004 - August	70%
	LARE Section D Average Passing Rate:	63.13%
	Mode:	61.00%

Note: All data on passing rates was obtained from the CLARB website.

How to Prepare for Section D of the LARE

There is a lot to know for Section D. The part of Section D that I found to be the most challenging was the subsection on construction details. I recommend studying the resources recommended by CLARB.  Check out the list below and the article on recommended resources for Section D for more information.

• Construction Contracts
• Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards
• Landscape Architect's Portable Handbook
• Manual of Woody Landscape Plants
• Site Engineering for Landscape Architects
• Western Garden Book

Related Articles:

What topics are covered in Section D

Section D suggested reading and study guide

LARE Section C Passing Rates

Is LARE Section C Difficult to Pass?
Section C and Section E of the LARE are the toughest sections to pass. Look at the chart below.  The average passing rate between 2004 and 2011 is only a little over 50%!  The only good news seems to be that the passing rate is generally improving. Examine the table below:

Section B of the LARE is a tough exam.  The average passing rate is a little over 50% during the sample period.  However, recent exam pass rates for Section B have been trending upward.  That being said, the mode for the same period is only 38%.

More Section C Passing Rate Data

	LARE Section C Passing Rates (June 2004-June 2011)
	2011 - June	60%
	2010 - December	70%
	2010 - June	58%
	2009 - December	61%
	2009 - June	46%
	2008 - December	71%
	2008 - June	51%
	2007 - December	56%
	2007 - June	39%
	2006 - December	48%
	2006 - June	52%
	2005 - December	41%
	2005 - June	38%
	2004 - December	31%
	2004 - June	38%
	Section C Average Passing Rate:	50.67%
	Mode:	38.00%

How to Pass Section C
There is no doubt about it, Section C is tough. Preparation is they key to passing Section C.  Study the exam topics using these reference books recommended by CLARB.

• Time-Saver Standards for Landscape Architects
• Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards
• The Dimensions of Parking

Also, check out the article on study guide references and exam preparation to help you get ready for the LARE.

Last Thoughts on Section C
Although many people must take Section C several times to pass, this doesn't have to be you. Prepare well and use the sample zoning reference that CLARB provides for the test.  Read and use those rules because that is what the evaluators use to grade your vignettes.  Also, label EVERYTHING. It took my a couple of tries to pass Section C.  It wasn't until I labeled everything on the sheet and drew arrows depicting vehicular and pedestrian circulation that I passed with flying colors.  You can pass Section C. Good luck.

LARE Section B Passing Rates

What is the Percentage of Candidates that Pass Section B?

Just like Section A, your chances are very good at passing Section B of the LARE (if you prepare). Over the past several years, over 75% of candidates have passed the exam.  The odds are favorable. However, the passing rate has been dropping in recent years.  Here is a chart showing the passing trend for Sectiona B of the LARE.

Passing rates for LARE Section B from August 2004 to March 2011. 

Notice that passing rates have been dropping over the years.  

Here is more statistical information about the passing rates for Section B:

	LARE Section B Passing Rates (August 2004-March 2011)
	2011 - March	71%
	2010 - September	68%
	2010 - March	75%
	2009 - September	78%
	2009 - March	70%
	2008 - September	75%
	2008 - March	72%
	2007 - September	74%
	2007 - March	74%
	2006 - October	71%
	2006 - April	74%
	2005 - October	84%
	2005 - July	85%
	2005 - April	80%
	2004 - August	83%
	Section B Average Passing Rate:	75.60%
	Mode:	74.00%

Note: All data on passing rates was obtained from the CLARB website.

What Can I Do to Prepare for Section B?

There are a few reference books that CLARB recommends for use to prepare for the LARE Section B. I've also put together a review of these study materials.

• Basic Elements of Landscape Architectural Design
• Site Analysis:  A Contextual Approach to Sustainable Land Planning and Site Design
• Site Engineering for Landscape Architects
• Site Planning and Design Handbook

Don't Get Complacent; Prepare for Success

Just because the average passing rate is pretty high, don't think that it's unnecessary to study for Section B.  As you can see above, the passing rate has been falling.  Use the references recommended for Section B and go into the exam feeling confident in your preparation and knowledge.  More knowledge and greater depth of knowledge makes you a stronger professional in the long-run.  Preparing for the LARE is an investment in your future.  Now is the time to prepare and emerge from the exam victorious.  Good luck!

LARE Section A Passing Rates

What Percentage of LARE Candidates Pass Section A?

The odds are in your favor of passing Section A of the LARE the first time.  Section A is the easiest part of the LARE for many test-takers.  An average of 72 percent of people who take Section A pass section A.

LARE Section A passing percentages from August 2004-March 2011.  In general, it appears that the rate of candidates who pass Section A has increased since 2004.  

Here is a more detailed look at the passing rate data for Section A:

	LARE Section A Passing Rates
	2011 - March	82%
	2010 - September	81%
	2010 - March	70%
	2009 - September	84%
	2009 - March	70%
	2008 - September	75%
	2008 - March	71%
	2007 - September	78%
	2007 - March	81%
	2006 - October	78%
	2006 - April	74%
	2005 - October	62%
	2005 - July	54%
	2005 - April	65%
	2004 - August	63%
	Average Passing Rate:	72.53%
	Mode:	70.00%

Note: All data on passing rates was obtained from the CLARB website.

Now What Do I Do To Prepare for Section A of the LARE?

Although the odds are largely in your favor if you studied in college and have some professional experience, you still need to prepare to take Section A of the LARE.  CLARB recommends using the following reference books to study for Section A:

• Construction Contracts
• Project Management for Design Professionals
• Ready, Set, Practice:  Elements of Landscape Architecture Professional Practice
• Sustainable Landscape Construction:  A Guide to Green Building Outdoors
• Sustainability and Design Ethics

Check out the reference materials for Section A article for more reference materials and study ideas to prepare to pass Section A of the LARE. For more information about the topics covered in Section A, check out the article about LARE Section A.

Remember that the odds are in your favor, but prepare to take the exam like the odds were against you. The more you study, the more competent professional landscape architect you will become.  Good luck on Section A.

LARE Section E Passing Rates

What are my chances of passing Section E of the LARE on the first try?

Section E of the LARE has historically been the most difficult part of the LARE exam for candidates to pass on the first try.  On average only 37 percent (37%) of candidates pass the exam every time it is offered.  

LARE Section E Passing Rate Chart.  While the average passing rate of Section E is about 37 percent, passing percentages have varied widely.  Note that no test had over half the candidates pass.  This means you have to study and know your stuff to pass.

Here is the detailed data for LARE Section E passing rates from June 2004 to June 2011:

2011 - June	36%
2010 - December	50%
2010 - June	37%
2009 - December	32%
2009 - June	48%
2008 - December	29%
2008 - June	37%
2007 - December	31%
2007 - June	29%
2006 - December	48%
2006 - June	38%
2005 - December	27%
2005 - June	40%
2004 - December	39%
2004 - June	41%
Average Passing Rate:	37.47%
Mode:	37%

Note: All data on passing rates was obtained from the CLARB website.

Now What Do I Do To Prepare for Section E of the LARE?

Don't get disheartened, now.  With proper preparation and studying, you can learn what it takes to pass Section E of the LARE.  CLARB recommends using the these books to study for Section E.

• Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards
• Site Engineering for Landscape Architects
• Time-Saver Standards for Landscape Architecture
• Grading for Landscape Architects and Architects

Check out the Section E study guide article for additional Section E test preparation materials and ideas.

Prepare well and good luck on preparing for and passing Section E.

Prepare to Pass Section E of the LARE Exam

What is Section E of the LARE?
Section E of the LARE is one of two graphic vignette section on the exam.  You will have to answer several 11"X17" graphic vignettes that address issues of placing landscape elements, minimizing grading impacts, addressing on-site and off-site stormwater issues, and thinking of landforms in three dimensions.

What is the Passing Rate for Section E?
Section E is the most difficult part of the LARE to pass.  On average since 2004, only 37 percent (37%) of candidates pass Section E each time.  This means it is extremely important to prepare as best you can to pass the exam the first time.  Use the study guide resources to help you prepare.

When is Section E of the LARE offered?
Section E of the LARE is offered twice a year; in June and December.  Find out if you qualify to take the LARE and how to register for the L.A.R.E exam.

What Topics Are Covered in Section E Graphic Vignettes?

Prepare to select locations for various landscape features and grade a site.  If you work in a state where landscape architects are not responsible for much grading, you really need to prepare for Section E if you want to pass the first time.

Section E tests your ability to visualize the landscape in 3D and manipulate landform.  You must consider the grading impact when locating program elements on the site.  Some vignettes will have you develop a concept grading plan by setting pad elevations, spot elevations, and adjusting contour lines to make the site functional.  Know what slopes are acceptable for pedestrian and vehicle circulation.

You will be tested on your ability to manipulate landform in order to effectively and safely manage stormwater and and convey runoff. Consider the design guidelines in the CLARB sample zoning guide which is part of the test.  Even if the design guidelines provided by CLARB differ from what you do in your office, the CLARB guidelines are the rules you use for the test.

In order to pass, you must demonstrate that you can locate a site feature in a way that minimizes economic and negative environmental impacts and manages on-site and off-site stormwater in a safe way.

Check out the article on study resources for Section E that will help you prepare to pass Section E.

Related Articles:

• Surface Grading & Drainage

LARE Section E Suggested Reading Materials and Study Guides

What Is Section E of the L.A.R.E Exam?

Section E is a graphic exam that has several 11"x17" graphic vignettes that will test your ability to conduct site grading, drainage and stormwater management.  You will have to locate site elements and place them in a way that reduces that amount of grading and impact on the site.  Additional skills tested include your ability to manage off-site and on-site stormwater. Water conservation and natural resource conservation are also topics covered on Section E.

The most important skill you must demonstrate to pass Section E is the ability to think in 3 dimensions and manipulate the landform to meet your design objectives.

What Study Materials Can I Use to Prepare Section E of the LARE?

The books listed below are recommended by CLARB to help candidates prepare for Section E.

Grading for Landscape Architects and Architects by Peter Petschek

Unfortunately for your profession, there are not a lot of good books on grading the landscape.  This book works at filling the gap on professional landscape architecture grading literature. Topics discussed in Grading for Landscape Architects and Architects include the history of grading, basic landscape grading principles, terrain forms, slope reinforcement techniques, and construction implementation of grading concepts. The best thing about this book is that it includes self-study exercises that give you the opportunity to put your knowledge to the test.  Practicing on the examples may really help improve your grading skills and confidence when you take Section E.

Site Engineering for Landscape Architects, 5th Edition by Strom, Nathan and Woland

Site Engineering for Landscape Architects is another fine textbook that teaches grading, drainage, and landform manipulation.  Read the article on Section B of the LARE study materials for a full review of Site Engineering for Landscape Architects. There is also a Site Engineering for Landscape Architects Workbook available that has exercises to help you practice your site engineering tools available from Amazon.com.

Time-Saver Standards for Landscape Architecture, 2nd Edition by Harris & Dines

I highly recommend this classic book for your professional library. This is a standard professional resource used by landscape architects throughout the United States and Canada. Use the sections on grading, stormwater management, and natural resources conservation to prepare for Section E of the LARE.  If you don't have a copy of your own, consider purchasing one to study for the LARE. You will use it for the rest of your professional career. See the full review of Time-Saver Standards for Landscape Architects in the article on preparing for Section B.

Other Study Resources for Section E:

LARE Review Section E Vignettes: Grading, Drainage, and Stormwater Management, 2nd ed. 

I stumbled across this book on Amazon.com the other day.  Although I have not purchased the book, a couple of landscape architects wrote reviews saying that this book helped them prepare for Section E and pass the exam.  If you have attempted Section E before and need to retake it, this book could help you pass the test next time.

Landscape Grading: A Study Guide for the LARE Grading Examination

Highly recommended....this book shows you how to solve grading problems like the grading vignettes found on Section E.  The author shows you how to solve common grading problems with step-by-step instructions.  Many landscape architect candidates find this book very helpful for improving their grading performance on Section E of the LARE.  What makes this book unique is that it was written from the perspective of somebody who is retaking the test.  There are 28 chapter exercises with solutions and nine practice grading vignettes. Landscape Grading: A Study Guide for the LARE Grading Examination is a good value for the money. If you are getting ready to re-take Section E, this book may help you prepare for and pass this section.  Check out the reviews on Amazon...this seems to be really well-liked by people who are trying to pass Section E.

Related Articles:

• How to Prepare for Section A of the LARE
• What Topics Are Covered in Section A?
• Study Guides and Reference Materials for Section B

LARE Section D Suggested Reading Materials and Study Guides

What is Section D of the L.A.R.E?

Section D will test you knowledge about landscape architecture design and construction. There are 120 questions on this section of the LARE.  As a result, you will be tested on a wide variety of construction and design questions. Sustainability and environmental ethics have grown in importance in the profession as this emphasis has made its way into the L.A.R.E exam. For more greater detail about the subject mater covered in Section D, check out this article that outlines the five subsections of Section D and the topics you need to know in order to pass the test the first time.

Here are some highly recommended resources to use in preparation for Section D.

Suggested Study Material for Section D:

CLARB recommends preparing for Section D of the LARE with the following list of books.  You may have some of these books in your personal or office library.  If not, any or all of them are excellent additions to your professional landscape architecture book shelf.

Construction-Related Reference Guides:

Landscape Architect's Portable Handbook by Nicholas Dines and Kyle Brown
This handy guide is small enough to take with you into the field and has enough information to answer most of what you need to know on a regular basis. The topics covered include discussion on the overall aspects of a landscape architecture project to the smallest details you regularly need. You will find loads of data on site selection and grading; demolition and clearing; grading, drainage, and stormwater management (including retention ponds); decks and landscape structures; fences, walls, and retaining walls; planting design and details; and some information on landscape architecture office management. I keep a copy in my car so I can quickly reference some topics in the field. The Landscape Architect's Portable Handbook will not replace a more complete reference like Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards but it is a good place to start if you are strapped for cash....used copies sell on Amazon.com starting at $30.


Site Engineering for Landscape Architects, 5th Edition by Strom, Nathan and Woland

This is a standard reference for site engineering and a great refresher on the basics of grading and stormwater management.  You may have used this as a textbook in school.  Amazon sells a Kindle version of the book if you want to read it on the go.  Check out the full review of Site Engineering for Landscape Architects in the Section B LARE study resources article.

Construction Contracts, 2nd Edition by Hinze

This is the standard reference for construction contracts and is quite comprehensive in the topics discussed. Frankly, this is not the most exciting book that you will ever read in your professional life, but the content is extremely important.  However, there is a lot of great information in this volume that will help you prepare for the exam and improve your knowledge as a landscape architect and contribute to your professional development. The biggest downside is that the book is on the pricier side at over 100 dollars. Check out the Section A study list for a full review of this book.

Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards by Hopper

Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards is the graphic bible for many landscape architects and is comprehensive in its detailed treatment of construction design and detailing of many major site amenities and program elements. If you do not already have this book, I strongly recommend purchasing a copy for your own professional library.  If the book is a little too expensive for your budget, perhaps you can use the copy at your office to study at lunch. You can buy a "lite" student version Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards, Student Edition for less money or pay the full price for the comprehensive professional edition. For a complete review of Landscape Architectural Graphic Standards, check out the Section C reading list and study guide.  

Planting Design and Horticulture Reference Books:

Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propogation and Uses by Dr. Michael Dirr (honorary ASLA)
If your from from the eastern United States or Canada, you probably used this book in college. The Manual of Woody Landscape Plants is the authoritative book on woody landscape shrubs and trees and is an excellent resource.  I still use it as a reference. Fewer LARE candidates probably have it on the West Coast of the United States, but the Manual of Woody Landscape Plants is a good resource to have in your professional library.  New and used copies are available from Amazon.com.  If you budget is tight, try to find a used copy about the time that college semesters end for a lower price.


Western Garden Book: More than 8,000 Plants - The Right Plants for Your Climate - Tips from Western Garden Experts (Sunset Western Garden Book)
If you work in the Western United States or British Columbia, you probably swear by the Sunset Western Garden Book. The Western Garden Book features more than 8,000 plant descriptions along with plant selection guides and detailed climate maps and climate descriptions for the western United States. Unlike the Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, the Western Garden Book has useful information on annual flowers, herbaceous perennials, trees, shrubs, and edibles and herbs. I use this book daily in my practice. New copies are frequently discounted at big-box retailers and Amazon.com.

Related Articles:

• Section B LARE Recommended Reading