Why take the FE Exam?

The Fundamentals of Engineering Exam is an important step in the professional licensure process. The steps vary slightly from state to state, but in general, there are four steps to becoming a PE (Professional Engineer). The first step is to graduate from an ABET-accredited engineering program (like BYU). The second step is to take the FE Exam. (Work experience and the PE Exam are the final steps of the licensure process). Besides helping you become professionally licensed, the FE Exam looks great on resumes and CVs.

What are the requirements for taking the FE Exam?

In order to be eligible for the FE Exam, you must be enrolled in or have graduated from an ABET-accredited engineering program. BYU happens to be just such a program. That’s it!

What material is covered in the FE Exam?

The FE Exam covers subject matter taught in a typical ABET-accredited baccalaureate engineering program. It covers a comprehensive range of subjects in engineering. The Exam is an 8 hour supplied reference exam. There are 120 questions in the 4 hour morning session, and 60 questions in the 4 hour afternoon session. You must participate in both sessions on the same day. Both exams are closed book, and reference material is supplied. All questions are multiple choice. During the morning session, you will take a general exam common to all disciplines. In the afternoon session, you can opt to take a general exam or a discipline-specific (chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, industrial, or mechanical) exam.

When is the FE Exam given?

The Exam is given twice each year, in April and in October. Visit the NCEES website's exam schedule to see upcoming exam dates for the next ten years.

Where do I take the FE Exam?

The Exam is held in Salt Lake City, although sometimes they hold it in Sandy. Details on location are given after registration.

How do I register for the FE Exam?

The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying is the portal site for exam registration in every state. Visit the NCEES website, then follow the directions on the website for registration.

Is there a deadline for registration?

YES. The deadline for the October exam is usually in early September, and for the April exam, usually mid-February. Please register early so you don’t miss the registration deadline for the exam you want to take! Check the NCEES website for the exact dates.

What is the fee for taking the FE Exam?

The exact fee for taking the FE Exam is available upon registration, but the fee is usually $125-135. The fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. THE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT WILL REFUND $30 OF THE EXAM FEE FOR THE FIRST 40 MECHANICAL ENGINEERING STUDENTS WHO SUPPLY PROOF OF REGISTRATION. See the Department Secretary for details.

Other Useful Information:

The NCEES website provides a plethora of useful information about preparing for and taking the Exam. Exam specifications, study materials, pass rates, and the calculator policy are just some of the helpful materials found there. Check it out!