MDASLA L.A.R.E. SUPPORT FUND
Need Help with L.A.R.E. Costs? Apply for $1,285 in Exam Support!
The Maryland Chapter of the ASLA established the L.A.R.E. Support Fund in 2025 to help reduce financial barriers to professional licensure for individuals pursuing the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (L.A.R.E.)
Beginning in 2026, one applicant will be awarded $1,285 to support L.A.R.E.-related and licensing expenses, distributed in two phases to align with upcoming exam periods. The fund is intended to support emerging and early- to mid-career professionals who demonstrate financial need and a clear commitment to completing the licensure process. ​The L.A.R.E. Support Fund is open to both ASLA members AND non-members!
​Applications are due March 12, 2026​​.
*Please note you will need a Google account to view the application form.
​Award Highlights
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Total Award: $1,285 distributed in two phases:
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Phase 1: $750 (April 2026) for initial application and exam fees
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Phase 2: $535 (Summer or Fall 2026) for an additional exam section
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There is no requirement to pass the exam to receive support
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Who Should Apply
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Individuals eligible to sit for the L.A.R.E.
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Those planning to pursue licensure within the next 12–24 months
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Applicants facing financial barriers related to exam and licensure costs
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You do NOT have to be an ASLA member to apply.
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Application Timeline
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Applications Due: March 12, 2026
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Award Announcement: April 2026 (ahead of the Spring L.A.R.E. testing window)
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The application takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete.
The MDASLA Emerging Professionals Committee reserves the right not to award the L.A.R.E. Support Fund in any cycle if, in its discretion, no application sufficiently meets the program criteria.
It costs nearly $3,000 to become a licensed landscape architect in the
State of Maryland!
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Visit CLARB for exam costs and application fees.
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Visit DLLR's website for license fees.​​
Questions about the L.A.R.E. Support Fund or the application process may be directed to the Maryland ASLA Emerging Professionals Committee at mpullano@designcollective.com
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If you would like to learn more and consider donating to the L.A.R.E. Support Fund, please click here.