USA

NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam

600 questions

About this exam

The NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam is a computer-based exam for people beginning the U.S. engineering licensure pathway. Engineering students often take it near graduation, and graduates may take it as an early step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer. It is not a university entrance or general admissions test. Eligibility rules are set by state or territorial licensing boards, so candidates should check their board’s requirements as well as NCEES registration information before choosing an exam.

Candidates select an FE discipline that matches their background, such as Civil, Mechanical, Electrical and Computer, or Other Disciplines. The exam has 110 questions and covers knowledge areas listed in the current NCEES exam specifications; topics may include engineering mathematics and statistics, ethics and professional practice, engineering economics, and statics. Preparation means reviewing concepts, applying them to unfamiliar problems, and getting comfortable with the supplied FE Reference Handbook. A steady study plan and timed practice can help reveal gaps before exam day.

How to prepare for the NCEES FE Exam

  1. Download the current NCEES exam specifications and FE Reference Handbook for your chosen discipline; use the topic list to organize a review plan.
  2. Refresh core subjects such as engineering mathematics and statistics, ethics, engineering economics, and statics, then work problems that require choosing and applying the right method.
  3. Practice under timed conditions with the handbook and an allowed calculator, review every mistake, and confirm eligibility and registration details with your licensing board and NCEES.

FAQ

Who is eligible to take the FE Exam?

Eligibility depends on the rules of the state or territorial licensing board. Many engineering students take the exam near graduation, while graduates may also be eligible. Check your board’s current requirements and NCEES registration guidance.

What is the format of the FE Exam?

The FE Exam is computer-based and contains 110 questions. The appointment is six hours, including time for instructions and an optional scheduled break; exam working time is five hours and 20 minutes. NCEES provides the FE Reference Handbook on screen.

What subjects should I study for the FE Exam?

Study the topics in the current NCEES exam specifications for your selected discipline. Depending on the discipline, these can include mathematics and statistics, ethics and professional practice, engineering economics, and statics, along with discipline-specific subjects.