The FE exam (Fundamentals of Engineering) from NCEES is usually the first step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Most people take it near or right after graduating from an engineering program. Passing earns the Engineer Intern (EI) or Engineer in Training (EIT) designation.
Here’s the format, the disciplines, what it costs and how to prepare. Then warm up with the free FE exam practice test.
Key takeaways
- 110 questions in a 6-hour appointment (about 5 hours 20 minutes of exam time).
- Computer-based and offered year-round at Pearson VUE test centers.
- You use the searchable NCEES FE Reference Handbook on screen. No personal notes are allowed.
- The NCEES exam fee is $225; some state boards charge extra.
USA FE Exam: Quick Facts
- Administered by
- NCEES (Pearson VUE test centers)
- Questions
- 110
- Appointment
- 6 hours (≈5h20m exam + tutorial and break)
- Fee
- $225 to NCEES (plus any state fees)
- Reference
- Electronic NCEES FE Reference Handbook
- Result
- Pass/fail, usually within 7–10 days
What Is the FE Exam?
The FE exam tests the engineering fundamentals you learned in an ABET-accredited program. In most states the path to a PE license is: engineering degree → pass the FE → gain about 4 years of qualifying experience → pass the PE exam.
More on What Is the FE Exam →FE Exam Disciplines
You choose one of seven discipline-specific exams:
- Chemical
- Civil
- Electrical and Computer
- Environmental
- Industrial and Systems
- Mechanical
- Other Disciplines (a general exam)
Every discipline includes common topics such as mathematics, probability and statistics, ethics and professional practice, and engineering economics, plus discipline-specific material.
More on FE Exam Disciplines →FE Exam Format, Calculator and Reference Handbook
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Questions | 110, including multiple-choice and alternative item types |
| Time | 6-hour appointment; about 5 hours 20 minutes of exam time with a scheduled break |
| Reference | Searchable NCEES FE Reference Handbook on screen |
| Calculator | NCEES-approved models only (Casio fx-115/fx-991, HP 33s/35s, TI-30X/TI-36X), or the on-screen TI-30XS |
| Scoring | Pass/fail |
Pro tip
Practice with the exact PDF version of the FE Reference Handbook you’ll get on exam day. Knowing where formulas are is one of the biggest time savers.
FE Exam Prep: How to Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam
- Take it soon after graduation, while the material is fresh.
- Plan 2–3 months of study (about 150–250 hours).
- Learn the Reference Handbook: know where every formula is.
- Master the high-weight topics in your discipline’s specification.
- Do timed practice problems. Our FE practice test mixes math, statics, dynamics, fluids, thermo, electrical, economics and ethics.
Planning a management track too? See the PMP exam.
More on FE Exam Prep: How to Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam →Free practice test
Ready to test yourself?
Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA FE Exam practice test →USA FE Exam FAQs
How many questions are on the FE exam?
110 questions in a 6-hour appointment, with about 5 hours 20 minutes of actual exam time.
Full answer →How much does the FE exam cost?
The NCEES exam fee is $225. Some state licensing boards charge separate application fees.
Full answer →Can I bring notes to the FE exam?
No. You get the electronic NCEES FE Reference Handbook on screen, plus an approved calculator.
Full answer →What happens after I pass the FE exam?
You can apply for Engineer Intern (EI) or Engineer in Training (EIT) status, gain qualifying experience (usually about 4 years), and then take the PE exam.
Full answer →What is the FE exam pass rate?
NCEES publishes pass rates by discipline. First-time takers generally pass at noticeably higher rates than repeat takers.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information. Rules, fees and procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with the official agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.