The NCEES FE exam is the first official step toward becoming a licensed professional engineer in the United States. It is intended for students nearing completion of an undergraduate engineering degree from an ABET-accredited program, as well as recent graduates.
The FE exam is a computer-based test (CBT) that is administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers. Examinees select a discipline-specific version of the exam that aligns with their area of expertise. Available options include FE Civil, FE Mechanical, FE Electrical, and Computer, among others.
Passing the FE exam earns you the designation of Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI), depending on your state. This can be an important step on the path to taking the NCEES PE exam, which ultimately leads to professional licensure as an engineer.
Why Passing The FE Exam Matters
Passing the NCEES FE exam is more than just a milestone; it's a requirement for engineering licensure in most U.S. states. Whether you're a recent graduate or a professional considering a career shift, passing the FE exam signals your commitment to the engineering profession and opens the door to long-term opportunities.
For many, the FE exam is the beginning of the journey to becoming a Professional Engineer (PE). Most state licensing boards require a passing FE score before you can take the PE exam.
Additionally, becoming an Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineer Intern (EI) demonstrates your technical competence and credibility to employers. This can boost your résumé, improve job prospects, and even lead to higher starting salaries.
If you're working toward a role in design, consulting, construction, or government engineering, licensure may also be legally required. Passing the FE exam early helps you stay on track and build momentum toward full professional licensure.
Who Should Take The FE Exam?
The NCEES FE exam is not just for one type of candidate. Whether you're just finishing school or considering a career change, this exam plays a key role in your journey toward professional licensure. Here's who should consider taking it:
Engineering Students And Recent Graduates
If you're currently in an ABET-accredited engineering program or have graduated within the past year or two, this is often the best time to take the FE exam. Your coursework is still top of mind, and you're already in the habit of studying, which can make exam prep more manageable.
Career Changers And Nontraditional Candidates
The FE exam is also a valuable opportunity for professionals transitioning into engineering from other industries. While the idea of test-taking after years away from school can feel intimidating, structured review courses like School of PE’s FE prep are specifically designed to help career changers master the material with confidence.
International Engineering Graduates
If you earned your engineering degree outside of the United States and are seeking licensure domestically, most state boards require you to pass the FE exam to validate your qualifications. This step is crucial for becoming eligible for the EIT or EI designation in the U.S.
Anyone Planning To Become A Licensed PE
No matter your background, if your ultimate goal is to take the NCEES professional engineer exam, the FE exam can be a helpful step. It's the foundation of your licensure path and validates your readiness for the responsibilities of a licensed engineer.
When Is The Right Time To Take The NCEES FE Exam?
Timing your FE exam can make a significant difference in how well you perform. While there's no universally “perfect” moment, there are clear advantages to taking the exam at certain stages depending on your situation.
If You’re A Current Engineering Student
The ideal time to take the FE exam is during your final year of an ABET-accredited undergraduate program. At this stage, core concepts are still fresh, and you’re likely already in study mode. Many students choose to take it shortly after completing a relevant capstone or senior-level design course.
If You’re A Recent Graduate
If you've recently graduated, it's still a great time to sit for the exam. The longer you wait, the more effort it may take to relearn topics. Taking the FE exam within six to twelve months post-graduation keeps the content fresh and your momentum intact.
If You’re A Career Changer Or Returning Professional
For nontraditional candidates, the right time is when you can commit to a structured study plan and the FE exam cost. This might mean waiting until you can balance work, life, and study time effectively. School of PE’s On Demand and Live Online formats are designed to support flexible schedules for working professionals.
What To Expect On The NCEES FE Exam
Understanding the format and structure of the NCEES FE exam can help reduce test-day anxiety and shape a more effective study plan. Here's what you can expect when you sit for the exam:
Exam Format And Duration
The FE exam is a computer-based test (CBT) administered at Pearson VUE test centers. It consists of 110 multiple-choice questions and is timed at 5 hours and 20 minutes, including a scheduled break. The interface includes an on-screen calculator and access to the NCEES-supplied Reference Handbook, which is searchable during the exam.
Discipline-Specific Options
You can choose from seven FE exam disciplines, including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical and Computer, Chemical, and more. Each discipline focuses on subject matter relevant to that field, allowing examinees to test in the area that best matches their academic and career background.
Question Types And Topics Covered
The questions are designed to assess both theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills. Topics may include mathematics, engineering economics, fluid mechanics, materials, and discipline-specific subjects. For a deeper dive into how to handle tough problems, check out our guide on FE exam questions.
Scoring And Results
The FE exam is pass/fail, and results are typically available 7 to 10 days after testing. NCEES does not release a specific passing score, but performance is measured against a predefined standard.
How To Study For The FE Exam Effectively
Preparing for the NCEES FE exam takes more than just reviewing old textbooks. The right approach combines structure, discipline-specific resources, and time management. Here’s how to study smarter and increase your chances of passing:
Start With A Realistic Study Plan
A successful FE prep journey begins with a plan tailored to your schedule and learning style. Most students study for 2 to 4 months, but your timeline may vary depending on your background. For help balancing your prep with work, school, or life, explore our guide on how long to study for the FE exam.
Focus On Discipline-specific Content
Choose your exam discipline carefully, then tailor your study materials to match. For example, if you're taking the FE Civil exam, your focus should be on topics like geotechnical engineering, transportation, and structures. Reviewing content outside your selected discipline is unnecessary and can waste valuable study time.
Use Reliable Prep Materials
Generic resources can leave gaps in your knowledge. Choose materials created specifically for the FE exam, such as the FE Civil Exam Review Guide, instructor-prepared video lectures, and digital flash cards. Courses from School of PE offer all of these in one platform to help you
Practice With CBT Simulations
Since the FE is a computer-based test, it helps to mimic the exam environment during practice. School of PE’s courses offer CBT-style practice exams, so you’ll become familiar with the tools, timing, and digital Reference Handbook well before test day.
FE Exam Prep With School Of PE
When you're preparing for the NCEES FE exam, the quality of your study materials can make all the difference. School of PE offers a structured, proven path to help you prepare with confidence and efficiency. Here's how our platform supports your success:
Comprehensive Course Offerings
Our FE exam prep courses are available in multiple formats to suit your schedule and learning preferences. Choose from:
- Live Online classes for real-time instruction
- Ondemand courses for flexible, self-paced study
- Bootcamp sessions for an intensive review experience
All formats include access to video lectures, practice problems, and detailed solution walkthroughs. Explore all our options here: FE General Exam Prep with School of PE
Instructor-Prepared Materials
Each course is built by experienced instructors who specialize in the specific discipline you’re studying. From the FE Civil Exam Review Guide to topic-specific practice questions, our materials are designed to align directly with the NCEES exam specifications: no filler, no wasted time.
Practice Tools That Match The Real Exam
Our platform simulates the real exam interface, helping you get comfortable with the CBT environment. You'll have access to realistic practice exams, a searchable reference handbook, and even tools to help you track your progress throughout your personalized study plan, which can be accessed through School of PE OnDemand.
Support Before, During, And After Enrollment
From choosing the right course format to requesting extensions or add-on materials, School of PE provides end-to-end support. Whether you're just starting or coming back for a refresher, we make it easy to stay on track with your FE exam goals.
