The FE exam is often considered a precursor to the PE exam. But are they really that similar? To help you decide which of these two exams best suits your needs, we will examine and compare them in this post.
How FE Exam Differ From The PE Exam?
Despite the difficulty of both tests, there are several noticeable differences. The PE test is primarily focused on practical applications, whereas the FE exam places more emphasis on theoretical topics. Furthermore, the PE test dives further into certain fields of specialisation, whereas the FE exam covers a wider range of topics.
Which option you choose depends on your experience level and desired career path. There are particular difficulties with the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice Engineering (PE) examinations.
Scope of Examination
Numerous subjects are included in the FE test, including dynamics, mechanics of materials, engineering economics, statistics, ethics, and mathematics. It is a thorough examination meant to evaluate the fundamental skills required of entry-level engineers, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive PE exam prep study course.
The PE test, on the other hand, is highly specialist and focuses on the particular engineering subject that the candidate practices. Different PE tests are available, each geared towards a particular engineering specialisation, such as chemical, mechanical, electrical or civil engineering. With this specialism, engineers may demonstrate their proficiency in a certain area.
The Order In Which You Take The Exam
The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Professional Engineering (PE) examinations are important first steps in the complex process of obtaining a professional engineering license. The tests are administered in a sequential manner, which is one of their primary differences and emphasizes the need for a well-structured PE exam prep study course.
In order to obtain the desired PE license, passing the FE test serves as the first step. To be qualified to take the more difficult PE test, aspiring engineers must pass the FE exam and effectively navigate and overcome its hurdles. This deliberate order creates a methodical flow, guaranteeing that applicants have a basic comprehension prior to exploring the intricacies evaluated by the PE test in FE exam prep.
Cost
When engineering applicants start the process of being licenced, they must take the financial environment into account. Applicants for the FE test must pay a $175 registration fee directly to the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES®) in order to be introduced to this fiscal dimension. However, in some jurisdictions, extra filing costs may be necessary as part of particular authorization processes, meaning that the financial commitment goes beyond this base charge.
The PE exam, on the other hand, requires a larger cash outlay, usually $375. However, it is crucial to remember that this price might change depending on the particular specifications set out by each state licencing board. The difference in price highlights how unique these tests are and illustrates the variety of factors that go into getting a professional engineering license.
Format
When applicants move from the FE to the PE exam, they will find that the structure of the two tests is rather similar. Computer-based testing, or CBT, is used for both the FE and PE examinations. Because of this similarity, applicants’ preparation goes more smoothly, facilitating a smooth transfer into the testing environment.
The use of the CBT format is compatible with modern testing practices and provides applicants with a dependable and comfortable testing environment. Because of the format’s consistency, exams become more seamless for candidates, who can concentrate on the difficult questions and important material presented in each test.
Questions
Analysing the test format in detail shows interesting differences in the question distribution between the FE and PE examinations. All fields use the same format for the FE exam, which consists of 110 multiple-choice questions. There are 55 questions total, with an equal distribution across the morning and afternoon sessions.
Time
One important area where the FE and PE tests differ is in time allotment. With the planned break excluded, the FE test lasts six hours altogether, giving candidates five hours and twenty minutes of real exam time.
On the other hand, different disciplines have different allotments of time for the PE test; for example, the Environmental, Mechanical, Chemical, Power, and Civil disciplines receive nine hours, while the other disciplines receive 9.5 hours. Without planned breaks, the real exam times are eight hours for the former and 8.5 hours for the latter.
Break
There are planned pauses during both tests, although they are not the same length. A 25-minute break is allowed for the FE test, whereas a 50-minute planned break is available for the PE exam due to its greater duration. Candidates can make use of this extra time during the PE test to unwind, eat, take care of personal business, or even get a little sleep.
Professional Advancement
Achieving the EIT or EI designation requires passing the FE test, which opens the door to entry-level engineering careers. This distinction denotes the end of the first phase of the licencing procedure and is an acknowledgement of an individual’s dedication to the engineering field.
On the other hand, earning a PE licence is a noteworthy professional achievement for an engineer. It is frequently linked to better-earning potential, more professional options, and the capacity to assume leadership positions within an organisation. For senior-level roles, a lot of government organisations and engineering corporations demand or need PE licensing.
Work Experience Requirements
The need for work experience is one of the main differences between the FE and PE tests. The PE test normally necessitates a substantial amount of professional experience, but the FE exam can be taken by new graduates or engineering professionals with less experience. The precise duration varies depending on the state and kind of engineering, but it often lasts between four and eight years.
Reach Out To The Civil Engineering Academy
In the process of becoming a licenced professional engineer, the FE and PE examinations have separate functions. Exams for entry into the engineering field are required to pass the FE test, which examines basic knowledge, and the PE exam, which measures specialised skills and advanced professional success. Your committed partner in this endeavour is the Civil Engineering Academy, which provides vital tools and support.
