The topics that are covered in the FE exam include information from baccalaureate level coursework in engineering. There are multiple questions in twelve topic areas. These areas are: mathematics, engineering probability and statistics, chemistry, computers, ethics and business practice, engineering economics, engineering mechanics, strength of materials, material properties, fluid mechanics, electricity and magnetism and thermodynamics. All students take this portion of the test and choose an afternoon session in a specialized module of their choice. These modules include: chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, industrial, or mechanical engineering.
The FE exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions that are administered in two four hour sessions. During the morning session, all examinees take the same 120 question exam based on general engineering knowledge in twelve topic areas. Engineering mechanics and mathematics combined make up 25 percent of the test questions. During the afternoon session, examinees choose to take one of 7 different exam modules: chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and other/general engineering. The afternoon session consists of 60 questions in the specialized area of the student's choosing. Testing centers provide each examinee with a Supplied-Reference Handbook. This is the only reference material that is allowed during the exam. Test-takers may also use one of three approved models of calculator.
Students who have graduated, or are within six months of graduating from, an undergraduate engineering program are eligible to register for the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam. Many states have other specific regulations that require students to apply with their state professional engineers board prior to taking the examination. The test is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), and candidates can register via their website. Students with special needs who require accommodations for the exam should contact NCEES at least one month in advance to make arrangements.
Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam is only the first step in becoming a certified Professional Engineer. The FE exam was formerly called the Engineer in Training exam, because it clears the student to work under the instruction of a licensed engineer for a specific period of time. In most states, this is between 2 and 4 years, after which the 'engineer in training' becomes eligible to sit for the second examination, the Principles and Practices in Engineering (PE). After passing the PE, the examinee is given the certification of Professional Engineer.
Certification as a Professional Engineer carries with it many benefits. Licensed Professional Engineers (PE) enjoy, on average, higher salaries and more opportunities for career advancement. T Requirements for licensure are often dependent upon the area that the engineer works in. Civil engineers, for example, often work on projects that, if incorrectly designed, could cause injury to the public. As a result, most states require civil engineers to be licensed as Professional Engineers. Engineers who work as consultants in a private practice are also required to carry a PE certification.