What do you need to know about the FE Exam?

By: Maria James

When it comes to talking about the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam, or simply the FE Exam, is generally the first step in the process of becoming a professional licensed engineer (PE). This test is fundamentally meant for recent graduates and students who are in close proximity to accomplishing an undergraduate degree from an EAC/ABET-accredited program.

If you are also one of those who think of passing the examination, it is for your information that the NCEES is the governing body behind the test. Any sort of detail can be found by visiting the official NCEES website. By doing this, you can also learn about the specific topics covered in the examination, along with many other deets.

What kind of examination is the FE exam?

A national examination, the FE is given-year around across the different states in the US. The exam is currently given as a computer-based test (CBT). And as stated previously, clearing this test opens the door for you to become eligible to appear in the PE examination.

When is the FE exam given?

It is for your enlightenment that the FE exam is given nationwide in these four testing windows: January-February, April-May, July-August, and October-November.

Why do you need to take this exam?

If you wish to attain a professional engineering license, it is imperative that you pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. And for verifying the eligibility requirements, you may simply go through the NCEES website.

When is the right time to take this exam?

While you are empowered to take the FE exam at any time during or after your senior year, aficionados have a different opinion on this. They have this piece of advice for aspirants: since the concepts involved in the FE exam mostly include the ones that you have recently studied, the safest option is to appear for the exam during your senior year or shortly thereafter. This stands to reason; the materials covered in this exam are fresh in your mind. So, make the most of them and take the exam as soon as possible for the best results.

What is the format of the FE exam?

There are 110 multiple-choice questions that must be answered in 6 hours. What’s more, this duration also includes a tutorial, a break, and a brief survey at the conclusion. So the actual time for resolving the questions is 5 hours and 20 minutes. Again, if you have any confusion or questions, it is always a better option to visit the NCEES website and get them answered right away.

What reference materials are allowed?

If you are about to appear for this examination, it is common to be bombarded with a plethora of questions. And one of them is this: what reference materials are allowed? Don’t worry, as we’ve got you covered!
It is for your information that the latest version of the appropriate NCEES-supplied handbook will be available on screen, and that too as a searchable PDF. Alongside, all the examinees will give this examination on a 24-inch monitor. The large size of the screen ensures that every aspirant gets to see exam questions as well as the reference handbook at the same time.

To download the current version of the handbook, all you need to do is visit the official NCEES website. And apart from this, only specifically approved calculators are allowed to be taken inside the examination centre.

How do I register for the FE exam?

To register for the FE exam, the first step you need to take is to visit the NCEES website. Once you are done, you need to log in to your NCEES account. Then select the “register” button and follow all the instructions that will be displayed on your screen. In addition, you will be required to pay registration fees for this examination.

What are the tips for succeeding in this examination?

There are some mantras that can certainly help you clear this examination. Embracing them can get you sure-shot results. Read on to get acquainted with them!

Complete as many practice problems as possible

There are 110 questions that you need to answer. And on average, you have around three minutes for each question. Therefore, to become proficient at resolving these and eventually come out with flying colours, the best way to do it is by completing as many practice problems as possible. This will help you to hone your existing skills, and you will be able to recall solution procedures, formulas, and important data indistinctively when sitting for the test.

Become familiar with the NCEES FE Reference Handbook

While the NCCES will furnish you with a digital copy of the reference exam on the day of the examination, it is vital to get hands-on before test day. This will greatly enhance your ability to use the resource effectively and quickly. Hence, when you answer practice questions, the safest bet is to use the reference handbook alongside, which will help you get familiar with the different sections, including the index.

Consider enrolling in an FE Exam Prep course

Another pivotal mantra that can significantly help you clear this exam is enrolling in a FE exam prep course. The primary intent of these review courses is to give you a refresher on the main topics that will appear on the exam. What’s more, you will have the privilege of answering so many practice problems.

While there are many online providers offering these courses, it is always preferable to use a reputable source. This will ensure that you get thorough assistance from top experts around the corner. And of course, you get the best study material to practice on.

One such provider that you can rely on for all your FE needs is the Civil Engineering Academy. Having helped so many aspirants, the label has quickly become the top choice for many students out there. To seek impeccable services, simply visit their website!

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