You do not always need to include references on an architecture CV. In most cases, references available on request is enough. The stronger move is to choose the right referees, get permission and be ready when a practice asks.
References can still be useful, especially for students, Part I candidates, Part II candidates and people moving from one practice to another. They add trust, but only when they are relevant and handled properly.
Watch: your CV gets opened before your portfolio
This related short video is useful because references only help if the rest of the CV is clear, relevant and easy to assess.
Listen: related Architecture Social podcast
The related podcast covers wider CV and portfolio basics, including what practices scan first.
You can also open the Architecture Social podcast page for this episode.
When references help
- You are early-career and a tutor, employer or studio lead can vouch for your work ethic.
- You have a strong former manager who can speak about project delivery, teamwork or reliability.
- You are applying for a role where trust, collaboration or client-facing work is important.
- You are changing direction and need someone to confirm transferable skills.
When to leave them off the CV
Leave references off if your CV is already tight for space, if the referee has not agreed, if the reference is weak or if you do not want your current employer contacted too early. A CV should not create risk for you.
Who to choose
Choose people who can speak specifically. A famous name is less useful than someone who knows your work and will respond quickly.
- For students: tutors, studio leaders, placement supervisors or employers from relevant work experience.
- For Part I and Part II candidates: project architects, associates, directors, line managers or respected tutors.
- For experienced candidates: people who can confirm responsibility, delivery, communication and team fit.
What to write
If you include references, keep the format clean. Name, job title, organisation, relationship to you and contact details are enough. Do not use too much space.
Example: References available on request. My referees include a former project lead and a university tutor who can comment on my design work, reliability and team contribution.
Common mistakes
- Adding referees without asking them first.
- Listing a current employer before you are ready for them to be contacted.
- Using personal friends instead of professional or academic references.
- Letting references take up half a page of a short CV.
- Forgetting to brief referees on the role you are applying for.
Architecture Social view
Stephen’s recruiter view is that references are supporting evidence, not the main event. Your CV still needs to show your role, software, project exposure, portfolio link and contact details clearly. A good reference can support that story, but it cannot fix a vague CV.
Before you apply
- Ask each referee for permission.
- Check the correct email and phone number.
- Tell them what kind of role you are applying for.
- Keep your CV focused on your experience, not just endorsements.
- Use references available on request if you want control over timing.
For the bigger picture, read our guide on how to write an architecture CV and the guide to architecture cover letters.
When your CV is ready, browse architecture jobs or ask Architecture Social where your experience is likely to land best.
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