In this article (and video above), I provide 5 steps you can take to simulate the CBT—or Computer-Based Testing—conditions so you can walk into exam day fully confident and prepared.
With the PE Exam now fully transitioned to CBT, your success depends on how well you can work under the same digital conditions you’ll face during the actual test.
Why Simulating CBT Conditions Matters
The PE Exam isn’t just about knowing the material—it’s about how efficiently you can navigate problems on a computer, with limited resources, within a strict time frame.
Practicing in a similar environment helps you:
✅ Build speed and accuracy.
✅ Get comfortable with the digital NCEES Reference Handbook.
✅ Reduce anxiety on exam day.
✅ Improve your time management.
1: Practice with the Digital NCEES Reference Handbook
In the CBT format, you won’t bring your own notes or books—you’ll only have access to the digital NCEES Reference Handbook.
👉 Download the latest version directly from the NCEES website.
👉 Solve practice problems while using only this handbook.
👉 Get used to searching keywords, navigating sections, and finding formulas quickly.
Pro Tip: Create a list of common search terms you’ll need, so you can quickly find what you’re looking for on exam day.
2: Time Yourself Like It’s the Real Exam
The PE Exam gives you 8 hours total, with scheduled breaks, to answer 80 questions.
When you practice:
✔️ Use full-length practice exams.
✔️ Set a timer.
✔️ Try solving 40 questions in 4 hours to simulate either the morning or afternoon session.
✔️ Avoid distractions—no phone, no interruptions.
This helps you train your brain for endurance and pacing.
3: Use a Computer Setup Similar to the Exam
Since the exam is entirely digital, try to practice on a:
💻 Laptop or desktop with a standard monitor.
🖱️ External mouse for easy navigation.
💡 Quiet, well-lit space like the testing center.
The closer your setup is to the real thing, the less adjustment you’ll need on exam day.
4: Use On-Screen Tools
The CBT exam has:
🧮 A built-in calculator (similar to the TI-30XS MultiView).
📝 On-screen annotation tools for highlighting and flagging questions.
Practice with these tools during mock exams so you’re not learning them for the first time under pressure.
5: Take Full Mock Exams
About 4 to 6 weeks before your exam, schedule at least one or two full-length practice tests.
✔️ Stick to exam timing.
✔️ Use only the digital reference.
✔️ Treat it like the real deal—no stopping for unrelated breaks.
Afterward, review your results to identify weak areas and adjust your study plan.
Final Thoughts
Simulating CBT exam conditions is one of the best ways to prepare for the PE Exam.
By creating a realistic test environment, practicing with the NCEES Reference Handbook, managing your time, and using the digital tools, you’ll reduce exam-day stress and boost your chances of passing.
So, set up your space, grab your practice exams, and start simulating today!
This Episode Is Brought to You By: School of PE
School of PE has been a leading provider of exam prep courses since 2004, helping thousands of professionals achieve licensure and certification in engineering, surveying, and project management. Taught by industry experts, their courses align with the NCEES CBT format and consistently deliver pass rates above the national average. School of PE is recognized as a top-rated provider, and they are committed to student success through expert instruction and high-quality materials. Visit http://www.schoolofpe.com/ for more details and to see how they can best help you achieve your professional goals. Specialties: FE Exam Review, PE Exam Review, Surveying, and PMP.
I hope you found this article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will solve some more PE exam practice problems and answer other questions from our subscribers. Pass the PE Exam videos will publish weekly, so be sure to click the subscribe button so you don’t miss something that could make a substantial difference in your exam result.
Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of this video or on this page, and I’ll read and respond to them in future videos. So, if there’s a specific topic you want me to cover or answer, we have you covered.
I’ll see you next week… on Pass the PE Exam
Anthony Fasano, P.E., AEC PM, F. ASCE
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success
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