I don’t think that ARE pass rates are a cause for concern, though the motivation of an individual may be.
Upon securing a terminal degree (BArch or MArch), typically a graduate would find a job as an architectural designer at a firm of any size. Then while working at the firm and acquiring the hours and experience also required for licensure, the applicant would begin the exam process
There are currently 6 separate exams, covering different aspects of architectural practice. Most firms will cover the cost of the exams (though not necessarily retakes) and provide study materials.
The exams are taken one at a time, at any time. Some firms insist that their employees get on the project right away; other firms are more relaxed.
I would say that a typical time line for completing all exams would be from 1.5 to 3 years, again depending on the applicant’s motivation. Failing and retaking is common, but if the applicant takes the time — and has the time — to study, most will be passed on the first go. In the meantime the applicant will be accumulating the requisite hours and experience.
The firm that my son worked for strongly encouraged licensure (plus LEED certification). He spent a reasonable amount of time studying the material and passed all but one the first time. His colleagues’ results were mixed, but eventually all that wished to be licensed succeeded.
Schools of architecture don’t necessarily teach the material that is covered in the exams. In fact it seems to me (not an architect) that some of the most elite schools take a perverse pleasure in NOT covering it.
About 10 years ago NCARB introduced the IPAL program (Integrated Path to Architecture Licensure). IPAL allows students at schools of architecture that subscribe to the program to get a head start on exam taking and hours accumulation. I would say that enthusiasm for the program has been mixed.
Is there a correlation between SAT/ACT scores and ARE results? Probably, since some students are better test takers than others. To me, though, success is more determined by motivation both personal and professional than by education or test taking ability.
If applicants are motivated they will pass the exams. If they are not motivated they will not TAKE the exams. Plenty of people work in architecture (and teach at schools of architecture) who are not licensed.
My observation is that it’s best to go through the process as soon as possible after graduation as licensure may lead to greater job mobility and better pay. But sometimes life and work get in the way.