Can an experienced interior designer pass the examination without preparation?

It is possible, but preparation is always recommended. The exam may cover subject areas that you learned about in school but aren't exposed to in your daily practice.

What does NCIDQ offer to candidates who need to study for the exam?

NCIDQ publishes free information on the examination format on this Web site. Exam study publications are also available for purchase from NCIDQ. We also recommend textbooks and publications that are often used as references for multiple-choice questions.

Do I need to take a workshop to pass the NCIDQ Examination?

No. The exam tests a common body of interior design knowledge, acquired through education and work experience. However, some candidates do find it helpful to take a study workshop. Any workshop you take should explain the exam process, provide an overview of content and identify your weak performance areas. Note: NCIDQ does not provide or endorse any workshop.

Does NCIDQ offer exam workshops?

No. NCIDQ does not provide or endorse any workshop. ASID offers STEP workshops in the United States. Canadians in the Toronto area can contact ARIDO to inquire about exam prep workshops.

Can I order one Practice Design Problem and make copies of it for an exam study or student group?

No. All NCIDQ study materials are copyrighted and cannot be duplicated without permission. This means that for 10 participants, you would need to purchase 10 copies of a PDP.

Which set of codes do I need to study?

Code-related questions on the multiple-choice sections reflect current codes in general use in the U.S. and Canada. We use IBC (2006 version) as a general guideline. However, you are NOT expected to memorize the codebook. A typical multiple-choice exam question will provide sample code information and ask you to analyze it. The practicum exam section will provide a complete set of codes you must follow in executing your solutions.

Does NCIDQ use David Ballast's Interior Design Reference Manual to create exam questions?

No. We don't base the exam on Ballast's Interior Design Reference Manual. It is published by a private company with no connection to NCIDQ. Review our list of endorsed references for current resources you can use to prepare for the exam.

Can you recommend libraries or used bookstores where I can find reference materials to study for the exam?

We suggest you contact your local public and university libraries for more information. Used books can be purchased on Amazon through the link on our home page.

 

 













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