October test windows always concentrate the mind. This year, they also collide with a once-in-a-decade rewrite of the NCIDQ blueprints. Starting in 2026, PRAC becomes IDIX and every exam blends item types—not just multiple choice. That creates a strategic choice for Fall 2025 candidates: finish now, or pivot early to the new format.
Here’s a crisp game plan for both paths—what’s confirmed, what’s changing, and how to avoid the administrative traps that can erase hard-won passes.
CIDQ’s new blueprints, informed by its latest practice analysis, aim to reduce overlap between exams and organize content by design phase. The Practicum (PRAC) evolves into the Implementation (IDIX) exam, and all three sections will use mixed item types—ending the era of a purely multiple-choice IDFX/IDPX.
Why it matters: study materials, timing, and test tactics shift. For example, today’s IDPX contains 175 questions (150 scored, 25 unscored) across a four-hour sitting; pacing and prep look different once item formats diversify.
Use this simple decision frame:
Why now: You can still leverage question-bank momentum and clear two sections in one season. IDPX remains a 4-hour, 175-question exam this October; IDFX timing/structure are similarly fixed for 2025, so you can plan sprints with predictable pacing.
6-week focus plan (example):
Outcome metric: Aim for 10–12 timed blocks (50 Q each) at or above your target threshold before test day. Track gains per content domain.
Why pivot: In 2026, all exams adopt mixed formats and the PRAC rebrands to IDIX, dropping the current case-study structure. If you learn best from spatial/interactive prompts, align your notes to the new phase-based blueprint now to avoid rework.
Bridge plan: Continue building core knowledge but file your notes under Programming → Design Development → Implementation buckets. That way you reuse 80–90% of your work when the new outlines go live.
From 2026 on, there will be no purely multiple-choice exam. Expect a blend that may include discrete MCQs, drag-and-drop, hot-spot/graphic tasks, and short scenario-based items. Practically, this shifts pacing from “questions/hour” to “tasks/hour,” making practice with on-screen tools crucial.
Keep your MyNCIDQ email current, set renewal reminders, and know your eligibility window. Route 1 candidates must pass all three sections within 10 administrations; Route 2 splits the window (IDFX within 4, then IDPX+PRAC/IDIX within 10). Letting your application lapse can void prior passes—an expensive setback.
Mini crosswalk (carry-forward topics):
Tip: Build “phase briefs” (1 page each) with code triggers, typical deliverables, and common coordination pitfalls. Update, don’t rewrite.
List what’s passed and what’s scheduled, plus your eligibility route. Example:
If you’re polishing your materials alongside testing, you can spin up a clean resume version fast with an AI resume builder, then tailor a concise outreach note for mentors or supervisors with a cover letter generator.
You’ve got two good options. Choose deliberately, protect your application status, and make October count.
References:
Timeless architectural features, such as courtyards, are always associated with bringing the naturally public forms to the world’s heart, building the most peaceful, secluded outdoor areas. These outdoor spaces maximize the living experience with their private space feature, which gives one the option for leisurely relaxation, recreation, or gardening. Furthermore, it has also been a […]
Architecture font choices go beyond style—they shape how your work is perceived. From portfolios to presentations, the right architecture font instantly communicates clarity, precision, and personality. As architects, we design not just with space but with every detail, including typography. Selecting a strong architecture font shows your commitment to visual storytelling and design consistency. In […]
The Indian farmhouse accommodation goes on to capitalize on a mature evolutionary synthesis of ancestral aesthetics and contemporary features. With this, the outside and the inside of farmhouses became places of comfort with nature. In this blog, we delve into 15 incredible farmhouse designs that entail a harmonious blending. While they exhibit different spaces in […]
When it comes to enhancing the kitchen window over the sink, various design ideas are possible to decorate Indian homes. From rooted in tradition to Western-style modular kitchens offer both functionality and attractive aesthetics. Apart from the sleek profile and raised breakfast counter, the kitchen window over sink is another spot to add appeal and […]
In Indian homes with dynamic spaces, identification of standard interior door dimensions can have a positive impact on space optimization. First impressions matter, right? Beyond spaces inside the homes, doors carry long-time impressions through various panel sizes, intricate details, and more. While most of us remember the material and design, we tend to forget the […]
Indian homes place equal importance on pooja room door designs as they do on main door designs. With diverse and unique ethnic backgrounds, every family strives to reflect their personalities and identities in their designs. These identities can encompass religious or spiritual interests, local contexts, or other personal elements. This series of blogs, featuring 50 […]
The door design for main door is a defining feature of any Indian home, embodying both style and cultural significance. In a country rich with diverse architectural traditions, the entrance to your home reflects not only personal taste but also cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate carvings of traditional Indian door designs or […]
Pillar design is a cornerstone of architectural elegance, seamlessly blending structural support with aesthetic appeal. Our blog, “50 Best Pillar Design Inspirations,” celebrates this essential element, showcasing a variety of styles from classical Doric and Ionic to contemporary and avant-garde innovations. Whether you’re an architect, interior designer, or a design enthusiast, these pillar design inspirations […]
Wall Moulding Design is a great way to amp up your space and elevate the overall look of your home. There are a wide range of moulding designs that can add a distinct character to your space. Wall moulding design comes from different kinds of materials, such as PVC, plaster, wood, etc. The right choice […]
Rooftop design ideas open up an interesting world for your roofs or terraces to be meaningful and beautiful at the same time. In India, rooftop design ideas hold immense potential to address critical challenges and enhance community well-being. By integrating solar energy generation, green spaces, and rainwater harvesting, rooftops can contribute significantly to sustainable urban […]