In this article (and the video above), I discuss “How to Register for the FE Exam,” now updated for 2024. I walk you through the process of creating an account, checking eligibility, paying fees, and scheduling your exam. Keep reading to make sure your registration for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam goes smoothly and leads to success!
The FE exam is generally your first step in the process of becoming a licensed professional engineer (P.E.). The exam is administered via computer throughout the year at Pearson VUE test centers and lasts for 5 hours and 20 minutes. It consists of 110 multiple-choice questions covering various topics from your engineering degree. So, let’s break down everything you need to know to ace this exam!
1 – Overview of the FE Exam:
The FE exam is generally your first step in the process of becoming a licensed professional engineer (P.E.). The exam is administered via computer throughout the year at Pearson VUE test centers and lasts for 5 hours and 20 minutes. It consists of 110 multiple-choice questions covering various topics from your engineering degree. So, let’s break down everything you need to know to ace this exam!
2 – Important Covid-Related Testing Information ( Updated: 31 March, 2024 )
As per the PPC’s: We continue to monitor COVID-19 and adjust Pearson VUE test center operations as needed. At present, company-owned Pearson Professional Centers (PPCs) do not require the wearing of face masks, proof of vaccination, or other unique entry requirements unless mandated by local regulations.
3 – Exam Dates and Scheduling:
The FE Exam is offered every month, Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays. You can schedule your exam through the MyNCEES portal, but seats are limited, so plan ahead. Remember, there’s a rescheduling fee if you need to change your exam date within 48 hours of the scheduled time. The dates for the 2024 FE Exam are:
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4 – Exam Fees and Disciplines:
The exam fee is $225, and there are seven different disciplines available based on your engineering degree. These include Mechanical, Civil, Electrical and Computer, Environmental, Chemical, Industrial and Systems, and Other Disciplines for degrees outside the first six categories.
5 – Eligibility and Registration:
Eligibility requirements may vary by state, so it’s essential to check with your state board to confirm your eligibility. In general, the individuals that are eligible to take the FE exam are:
- #1 . Students enrolled in an EAC-ABET accredited engineering program who have completed at least two-thirds of their coursework towards an engineering degree
- #2. Graduates of EAC-ABET accredited engineering programs.
- #3 . Individuals with degrees from foreign institutions that are recognized by the state board and meet the equivalent standards of an EAC-ABET accredited engineering program.
To Register for the FE Exam, Follow These Steps:
1 – Check your state board’s requirements:
Visit your state board’s website or contact them directly to understand the specific eligibility criteria and registration process for the FE exam in your state.
2 – Create an account on MyNCEES:
MyNCEES is the official platform for registering for and scheduling exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Create an account on MyNCEES if you don’t already have one.
3 – Verify eligibility:
During the registration process on MyNCEES, you may need to provide documentation or information to verify your eligibility, such as your engineering degree or enrollment status in an accredited program.
4 – Pay the exam fee:
Once you’ve verified your eligibility and created an account on MyNCEES, you’ll need to pay the exam fee. The fee amount may vary and is set by NCEES.
5 – Schedule your exam:
After paying the exam fee, you can schedule your FE exam through MyNCEES. Choose a convenient location and date for your exam based on the available options.
6 – Download the FE Reference Handbook:
As part of your exam preparation, download the free FE Reference Handbook from MyNCEES. This handbook contains essential equations, formulas, and reference material that may be helpful during the exam.
Here Are Some Additional Important Tips for Success:
Tip #1 – Write the exam within 12 months of graduation for the freshest material.
Tip #2 – Familiarize yourself with the exam format and use the digital FE Reference Handbook during the exam
Tip #3 – Double-check eligibility requirements and state-specific application processes.
About Matthew Douglas
Matthew currently serves as a content creator and host of The Engineering Project Management Podcast. A civil engineer by trade, Matthew has developed a passion for construction and stormwater management by way of maintenance and rehabilitation services. Matthew has also had experience working with private consulting firms and public agencies, and has even held a role of an educator. As such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.
Most recently, during his time working for the public sector, he has taken the role of Public Works Operations Manager. He led quite a few public infrastructure rehabilitation projects and implemented new asset management technologies at a very young age. It is here that the passion for “fixing what’s broken” developed.
This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI, A Kaplan Company:
PPI
has helped engineers achieve their licensing goals since 1975. Passing the FE and PE exams can open doors to career advancement and new opportunities. Check out PPI’s wide range of prep options, including Live Online courses, OnDemand courses, and digital study tools to help prepare you to pass your licensing exam here.
In upcoming articles, I will answer more FE Exam questions and run through more practice problems. We publish videos bi-weekly on our Pass the FE Exam YouTube Channel. Be sure to visit our page here and click the subscribe button as you’ll get expert tips and tricks – to ensure the best success – that you can’t get anywhere else. Believe me, you won’t want to miss a single video.
Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of the videos or here 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.
Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success
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