Hey, could anyone assist with what I should do to pass this exam? I think I was close but how close was I? What should I study to pass? My retake is in a couple weeks.
Welcome to the Black Spectacles Community @gavschuller! We are happy to have you here.
I’m so sorry to hear about your PcM exam, but rest assured that you are not alone! We are here to help you overcome this obstacle. Like you said, you were very close to passing! NCARB states that if you receive a scaled score of 500 or more, you are likely within just a few questions of passing. Looking at your content area breakdown, I’d recommend focusing your studies on Content Area 2 as that was a bit on the lower side and it makes up a large percentage of the exam (29-35% of questions). It’s also a difficult topic on the exam, so it can take some extra study time and practice to become comfortable with financial concepts and formulas.
I see that you’ve completed the Pre-Consultation Survey for a one-on-one ARE Consultation back in November 2025 for this exam attempt, but have not scheduled a time to meet with one of our licensed architect consultants. I’ll send you an email with scheduling links so that you can select a 30-minute time slot - we’d love to get you on the books ASAP before your retake. During the meeting, the consultant will dive deeper into reviewing your score report and help you develop a game plan for your retake.
Please let me know if you have any questions or issues with this process. Best of luck on your retake - you’re going to do great! 
Kiara Galicinao, AIA, NCARB
Product Coordinator
Black Spectacles