Fundamentals of Engineering Exam

Overview

Welcome to the School of Engineering Fundamentals of Engineering examination preparation resource site.  Below you will find information about the testing program to help you prepare for your examination.

Fundamentals of Engineering Examination Prepraration

[RESOURCES] The NCEES website is the best reference for students to understand registration timelines, requirements, and exam-day expectations.  The NCEES Exam Guide is a helpful reference providing you with information on the following:

  • Registration details – how to create an NCEES account, scheduling exams, fees, ID requirements.
  • Policies and rules – rules of conduct, permitted items, exam-day procedures, calculator policy, accommodations.
  • Exam logistics – computer-based testing (CBT) format, security protocols, what happens before, during, and after the exam.
  • Scoring and results – how exams are scored, when results are released, and what to expect afterward.
  • Reference materials – information about the FE Reference Handbook and other exam resources.

Note that the School of Engineering FE Examination Sponsorship Program is currently on pause.  If you have any questions, feel free to email engineering@ucmerced.edu, subject "FE Examination Prep Inquiry".

Benefits of passing the FE exam:

  • Professional recognition: Passing the FE exam is a significant step towards becoming a licensed PE.
  • Career advancement: It can open doors to more challenging and rewarding engineering roles.
  • Increased earning potential: Licensed PEs often command higher salaries.
  • Personal satisfaction: Demonstrating a mastery of fundamental engineering principles can be a source of pride and confidence.

To prepare for the FE exam

  • Review fundamental engineering concepts from your undergraduate studies.
  • Practice with past exams and sample questions.
  • Familiarize yourself with the electronic reference materials provided during the exam.
  • Consider using study resources and preparation materials available from NCEES or other providers. 

Key aspects of the FE exam:

  • Duration: 6 hours total, including a tutorial and an optional break. 
  • Content: Covers a wide range of engineering disciplines, including mathematics, science, and engineering fundamentals. 
  • Passing: A passing score is required to proceed to the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, which is the second step towards PE licensure. 
  • Administration: Administered by NCEES at NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers. 
  • Exam Fee: There is an exam fee payable directly to NCEES. 
  • Purpose: To assess an individual's understanding of core engineering concepts and their ability to apply them. 
  • Format: Computer-based, closed-book, 110 multiple-choice questions. 

Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam 

The following summary is provided for your reference only. For accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official testing site at: https://ncees.org/engineering/fe

A. NCEES Administers

https://ncees.org/engineering/fe/

Exam Fee: ~$225

B. Nearest Approved Test Center

C. Exam Schedule & Format

  • Schedule: https://ncees.org/exams/schedule
  • Format: The FE exam is a 110-question test
  • The exam appointment time is 6 hours long and includes:
    • Nondisclosure agreement (2 minutes)
    • Tutorial (8 minutes)
    • Exam (5 hours and 20 minutes)
    • Scheduled break (25 minutes)

REMINDER: Please check the official website for the latest information: https://ncees.org/engineering/fe

     

    Vers. 05.02.25 - dbq