In this article (and video above), I discuss a hot topic in the engineering world: Is the Civil FE exam actually HARDER than the PE?
From exam formats and technical content to unique challenges and prep strategies, I’ll share everything you need to know to help you figure out where the real difficulty lies. Whether you’re a student preparing for the FE or a seasoned pro gearing up for the PE, this episode is packed with insights for you.
The FE exam—also known as the Fundamentals of Engineering—is often viewed as the first big step in your professional journey. It’s broad, highly theoretical, and covers a massive range—calculus, statics, ethics, fluid mechanics—you name it. It’s like compressing all your undergrad engineering courses into a single test. No wonder it feels overwhelming.
But here’s the twist—some engineers say it’s easier because it’s more about memorization than real-world application.
Now enter the PE exam, the Principles and Practice of Engineering. It’s focused, in-depth, and hands-on. This one demands you apply what you’ve learned on the job to real engineering problems. Think: complex calculations, design scenarios, and discipline-specific questions.
Sounds tougher, right? Well, not always.
Many engineers actually find the PE more manageable because of their experience. Years of working in the field help you approach the exam with real-world context.
So, which is harder? It depends—on you.
