CAA is a membership organization for professional bodies representing architects in Commonwealth countries. Formed in 1965, it currently has 34 members. The Association is best known for its procedures for the validation of courses in architecture which convene international visiting boards to schools to assess courses against set criteria. This results in a list of qualifications recommended for recognition by members.

Under the umbrella of the Commonwealth CAA subscribes to its core values, and in particular, developmental support to the smaller and younger members. The Commonwealth network is increasingly valued as a means of accelerating improvement in the world’s living conditions and to ensure a sustainable future for the planet.