Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam FAQs
If you have a 4-year engineering degree or 4 years of documented work experience in the engineering field, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the first step in the process of becoming a licensed professional engineer (PE).
The FE exam is prepared by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
Upon passing the FE exam, you can become an Engineer in Training (EIT). After a few years as an EIT, you can apply to take the PE exam to become a licensed professional engineer.
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about the FE Exam and the FE Exam Prep course.
FE Exam FAQs
Do I need a 4-year degree in order to take the FE exam?
No. While the 4-year degree is one way to qualify for the FE Exam in Arizona, the Arizona Board of Technical Registration does not require a degree from an accredited program to take the FE exam.
You may also apply for approval to sit for the FE exam if you have 4 years of documented relevant engineering experience.
Do I need to apply to take the FE exam in Arizona?
Yes. In Arizona, all candidates must apply for Arizona Board of Technical Registrations authorization before taking the FE exam. The application is available on the Arizona Board of Technical Registrations Exam Authorization website.
NOTE: according to the Arizona Board of Technical Registrations, the review and approval process for applications "...may take eight to twelve weeks depending on the applicant’s qualifications and timely submission of required documents."
For the most up-to-date information about the exam registration process and licensing requirements in Arizona, please visit the Arizona Board of Technical Registrations website.
Does military experience count towards the FE exam authorization or Engineer in Training licensing requirements?
In Arizona, those that received "substantially equivalent education, training or experience as a member of the United States armed forces or any national guard or other reserve component" may meet the Arizona education and/or experience requirements for testing authorization and engineer licensing.
Active duty service members and veterans can contact the Arizona State Board of Technical Registrations to learn more.
Who can take the FE exam in other states?
The process and requirements vary by state. You can visit the NCEES website for information about the exam authorization and registration process in different states.
How much does the FE exam cost?
As of April 2024, the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering exam costs $225. The Arizona Board of Technical Registrations application fee is $100, as of April 2024.
When and where can I take the FE exam?
The FE exam is administered year-round. You can take the FE exam at any NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test center. Search for a nearby Pearson VUE test center.
Is the FE exam in English?
Yes, the exam will be given in the English language.
FE Exam Prep FAQs
What is the FE Exam Prep course?
The FE Exam Prep course gets you ready to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Civil or Other Disciplines Exam. It includes lectures, weekly assignments, study sessions and practice exams.
How often is the FE Exam Prep course offered?
FE Exam Prep is offered twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. See upcoming FE class dates.
Can I take this course while I am employed or in school?
Yes, anyone is welcome to take the course. There are no prerequisites for those who wish to take the FE course.
How much does the course cost?
As of April 2024, the fee for the course is $899.
Are there discounts available for the FE Exam Prep course?
Yes. Discounted pricing is available for:
- University of Arizona, Arizona State University (ASU), and Northern Arizona University (NAU) students are eligible for a 50% discount - the discount will be applied automatically based on questions you answer during registration
- University of Arizona, ASU and NAU alumni are eligible for a 10% discount - the discount will be applied automatically based on questions you answer during registration
- Military-connected learners are eligible for a 50% discount - the discount will be applied automatically based on questions you answer during registration
- FE learners referred by refugee-serving community organizations are eligible for a 50% discount - contact the FE course Program Coordinator to learn more
- Members of specific professional organizations may be eligible for a 10% discount - contact the FE course Program Coordinator to learn more
(Only one discount can be applied per registration).
Is there financial aid available for the FE Exam Prep course?
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding for this class may be available for unemployed or dislocated workers and other eligible applicants. Contact your local One-Stop Service Center to learn more about Arizona workforce development program eligibility.
Can I use military education program funding for the course?
The FE Exam Prep course is approved for Air Force COOL and Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) funding for eligible service members.