According to the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), there is something that signifies a high level of competence and commitment and sets professionals apart in the field. But what sets those who secure top engineering positions apart?
Licensing.
Becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) is a mark of professionalism that employers recognize and value. However, the PE exam is notoriously challenging.
My research into the best PE review courses revealed that passing this exam requires diligent preparation and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Here, I’ve listed my top PE courses, along with the pros and cons of each program, to help you choose the best prep course and achieve exam success.
Key Takeaways:
- School of PE’s Structured Learning: Known for its live online classes and comprehensive materials, School of PE provides a structured approach to PE exam preparation for PE exam tests. They’ve also added in-person options in some areas!
- PPI2Pass’s Comprehensive Resources: PPI2Pass offers extensive study guides, practice problems, practice exams, and a variety of learning modes, making it a versatile option for PE candidates.
- Civil Engineering Academy’s Tailored Support: Civil Engineering Academy provides targeted support and resources specifically for civil engineers, making it ideal for those focusing on the PE civil exam.
- Capstone’s Inconsistent Quality: Capstone offers various resources but has mixed reviews regarding the consistency and quality of its materials.
- EET’s Narrow Focus: EET offers in-depth resources for specific engineering disciplines but may fall short in providing comprehensive coverage for all exam topics.
Course Comparison
| Feature |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Discounts | Save $300 | Save 15% | No Discounts | No Discounts |
| Practice Questions |  | | | |
| Flashcards | | |  | |
| Money Back Guarantee | | | | |
| Support | Phone, Email, Live Chat | Phone, Email, Forum | Email, Facebook Group | Phone, Email |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
1. School of PE: Best for Structured Learning
My first choice for the best PE exam review courses is School of PE. School of PE excels in providing a structured learning environment with its live online classes that bring together expert instructors and students in an interactive setting.
The flexibility of evening and weekend classes ensures that working professionals can find a schedule that fits their busy lives. With access to a community forum, students can engage with peers, exchange ideas, and seek support. Performance tracking tools help students monitor their progress and adjust their study plans accordingly.
“…I definitely like how School of PE re-organized the material and the content adopting the new format. I think it’s so much better than before. I also like their quiz generator questions are very similar to what you get in the exam…”
School of PE reviewer
Course Options and Key Features
- Live Online Classes: Interactive sessions with expert instructors covering all exam topics.
- In-Person Options: School of PE now offers accelerated in-person PE Civil courses, providing hands-on instruction and premium materials in a fast-track, interactive learning environment.
- Comprehensive Study Materials: Detailed lecture notes, practice problems, and quizzes.
- Flexible Schedules: Evening and weekend classes are available to accommodate working professionals.
- Support Tools: Access to a community forum, study planners, and performance tracking.
Pros
- Live Course Options: School of PE offers both live online classes and new in-person courses, providing flexibility and interaction with instructors and peers. Live online sessions are held on weekdays from 7-10 PM EST, offering a structured environment that many students find invaluable, while the in-person courses deliver hands-on instruction and premium materials for those who prefer a classroom setting. Students often highlight that attending all sessions and thoroughly using the question bank leaves them well-prepared for the exam.
- Comprehensive Content Review: The classes offer an in-depth review of all exam topics. Instructors guide students through the reference manual, pointing out essential content likely to appear on the exam and highlighting less relevant sections based on past exams. This thorough approach ensures a well-rounded preparation.
- Effective Practice Portal: The practice portal allows students to create customized quizzes on specific topics, simulating real test conditions with timed sessions and varied question counts. This targeted practice helps improve time management and reinforces understanding, making it an essential tool for both the PE and FE exams.
- Engaging and Informative Video Lectures: The video lectures are designed to break down complex topics into manageable segments, keeping students engaged while providing clear explanations and practical examples. This unique approach ensures students understand crucial sections of the reference manual and can focus on what’s important for the exam.
- Comprehensive Support: From enrollment to exam day, School of PE offers robust support. Expert instructors provide clear, thorough explanations, and personal counselors guide students on study strategies and keep them informed about exam changes. The “Access Until You Pass” policy ensures ongoing updates and continuous support, maximizing the effectiveness of study time.
“I used SoPE question bank and passed. Focus on the medium and hard level ones. Those are the ones that feel most like the actual exam. Sometimes the SoPE hard ones are way too extensive but the steps you need to follow will lead you to an answer along the way that the real test would ask.”
GBHawk72
Cons
- Issues During Transitions: Some students have reported encountering outdated materials during transition periods. Although infrequent, this can be frustrating when preparing for the exam. Staying in communication with instructors and the support team can help ensure access to the most current information. While School of PE is generally responsive and quick to update their resources, navigating these updates can occasionally be a minor inconvenience.
School of PE
Save Up to $300 on School of PE PE Courses
Save Up to $300 on School of PE FE Courses
2. PPI2Pass: Top Pick for Comprehensive Resources
PPI2Pass is my second choice for PE exam preparation due to its rigorous practice problems, flexible study options, and extensive study resources. This course ensures thorough preparation, boosting your confidence and readiness for exam day.
“PPI2Pass is the best out there; can’t go wrong with it”
u/life_0n_lemons
Course Options and Key Features
- Variety of Learning Modes: Live online, on-demand, and self-paced options.
- Extensive Study Guides: In-depth coverage of all exam topics.
- Practice Problems: Thousands of practice questions and full-length exams.
- Instructor Support: Access to instructors for personalized guidance.
Pros
- Rigorous Practice Problems: PPI2Pass is renowned for its challenging practice problems that often require understanding multiple concepts to solve. This ensures that students understand the material deeply, making the actual PE exam feel more approachable. Mastering these complex problems equips students with the skills needed to tackle a variety of questions on the exam.
- Flexible Study Schedule: The OnDemand courses offered by PPI2Pass allow students to study at their own pace, which is ideal for those juggling work or other commitments. This flexibility enables students to create a study schedule that fits their personal needs, making exam preparation more manageable and effective.
- Extensive Study Materials: PPI2Pass provides a wealth of study materials, including comprehensive review manuals and discipline-specific books. This thorough coverage ensures that all necessary topics are well-addressed. The quiz generator is an additional tool that helps reinforce knowledge through continuous practice, ensuring students are well-prepared for the exam.
- Effective Time Management: The course emphasizes time management by incorporating timed practice tests into its structure. This helps students get used to the exam’s pacing, ensuring they can effectively manage their time on the exam day. Practicing under timed conditions helps build confidence and improves overall test performance.
- Comprehensive Support: PPI2Pass offers extensive support, including access to knowledgeable instructors for personalized guidance. This ensures that students have the necessary help to clarify doubts and address concerns during their preparation, enhancing their understanding and readiness for the exam.
Cons
- Complex Practice Questions: Some students find that the practice questions can be more challenging than those on the actual exam. This can be demanding, but it ensures that students are extremely well-prepared for any difficulty level they might face on exam day.
- Occasional Off-Topic Material: The comprehensive resources sometimes include material that is less relevant to the exam. This can lead to less focused study sessions and may require additional effort to stay on track with the most pertinent topics.
PPI2Pass
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3. Civil Engineering Academy: Best for Civil Engineers
Civil Engineering Academy’s Ultimate Civil PE Review is my third choice for PE exam preparation. While it offers solid resources and flexible study options, it has some drawbacks that might not make it the best fit for everyone. Let’s dive into the details to see if this PE review course aligns with your needs.
“Amazing material! Keep track of the videos; excited about looking at more of them.” Youtube comment.
Course Options and Key Features
- Range of Exam Prep Courses: Covers FE, PE, CA Civil Seismic, CA Civil Survey, SE, and Floodplain Manager exams. I find it to be good for PE civil exam review but not as great for other courses.
- On-Demand Learning: Courses are available on-demand, allowing students to study at their own pace.
- Supplementary Resources: This includes video practice problems and a supportive online community to build up their PE Civil course.
Pros
- Easier to Follow and Highly Informative Videos: Civil Engineering Academy’s video lectures are designed to simplify complex engineering topics, making them easier for students to understand and more engaging. This approach aids in better retention of important concepts and makes studying more enjoyable.
- Supportive Community: The course includes access to a private Facebook group where students can share insights, tips, and encouragement. This supportive community enhances the learning experience by providing a platform for students to collaborate and help each other succeed.
- On-Demand Access and Responsive Support: The on-demand format allows students to learn at their own pace, accommodating different schedules. Additionally, the course offers continuous support, ensuring that students can get help whenever needed, which is crucial for a thorough preparation process.
- YouTube Channel for Supplementary Learning: Civil Engineering Academy maintains a YouTube channel that provides additional learning resources on various engineering topics. This supplementary content can be very helpful for reinforcing key concepts and staying engaged with the material.
Cons
- Errors in Practice Problems and Rushed Material: Several users reported finding numerous errors in the test questions and practice problems. One user mentioned, “I kept finding errors on the test questions. Much of the material presented was rushed and full of errors.” – u/Worth-Opportunity945
- Moderate Production Quality of Videos: This indicates a lack of thorough quality assurance and can be frustrating for students who rely on accurate material for effective study. Although the content of the video lectures is valuable and informative, the production quality is not the highest compared to other similar courses. This could be a drawback for students who prefer a more polished and professional presentation of study materials.
- No Guarantee of Passing the Exam: Civil Engineering Academy does not offer a guarantee that students will pass the PE exam after completing their course. While they do provide a 15-day money-back satisfaction guarantee, the absence of a pass guarantee may be a concern for students looking for added assurance and confidence in their investment.
Civil Engineering Academy: Ultimate Civil PE Exam
4. Capstone Learning Associates: Mixed Reviews and Limited Recognition
Capstone Learning Associates is another option for PE exam preparation, but it has not gained as much recognition as some other courses. While it offers several appealing features, there are significant drawbacks that potential students should consider.
Course Options and Key Features
- Targeted Instruction: Comprehensive coverage of various PE exam topics, including Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, and Electrical disciplines.
- Practice Problems: Extensive set of practice problems with detailed solutions.
- Tutor Support: Access to experienced PE tutors for guidance.
Pros
- Unlimited Access: Capstone offers various pricing plans that include options for unlimited access to course materials. This can be beneficial for those who need more time to prepare and want to review the content multiple times. The unlimited access option provides flexibility and the ability to revisit materials as needed, which can be a significant advantage for thorough preparation.
- Affordable Pricing: The courses are reasonably priced, with comprehensive reviews available for $699. This includes extensive narrated instruction, sample problems, and tutor support, making it a cost-effective choice for many students. The affordability can be appealing to those on a tight budget who still need comprehensive exam preparation.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Capstone covers a wide range of topics for different PE exams, ensuring that all necessary subjects are addressed. The curriculum is designed to align with the NCEES PE exam specifications, providing targeted and relevant instruction. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that students are well-prepared for the breadth and depth of the exam content.
Cons
- Limited Recognition: One of the biggest drawbacks of Capstone Learning Associates is that it is not widely known or recognized in the engineering community. This lack of recognition may make students hesitant to invest in the course, especially when there are more established alternatives available. The lower profile of the course could lead to concerns about the quality and reliability of the preparation materials.
- Outdated Website: The Capstone Learning Associates website is not as user-friendly or updated as other platforms, which can make it difficult to navigate and find necessary information. A more modern and intuitive website could significantly improve the user experience. The outdated interface might frustrate users who are accustomed to more streamlined and interactive online learning environments.
- Limited Number of Practice Questions: Compared to other PE exam prep courses, Capstone offers a relatively smaller number of practice questions. This limitation can restrict the extent of practice and exposure to different types of exam problems, potentially impacting overall preparedness. Students may need to seek additional resources to ensure they have sufficient practice opportunities to build confidence and competence.
Capstone Learning Associates offers a robust curriculum and flexible access options, making it a potential choice for those looking for an affordable PE exam prep course. However, its limited recognition, outdated website, and smaller pool of practice questions may deter some students. As with any course, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it meets your specific needs and study preferences.
Capstone Learning Associates
5. EET (Engineering Education and Training): Specialized but Limited
EET provides discipline-specific courses that offer in-depth study materials and live instruction tailored to particular engineering fields. While this specialization can be beneficial for students seeking focused preparation, it may not provide comprehensive coverage for all exam topics, potentially leaving gaps in your knowledge.
Course Options and Key Features
- Discipline-Specific Courses: Focused on particular engineering disciplines.
- Specialized Study Materials: Tailored to specific exam sections.
- Live Instruction: Interactive classes with experienced instructors who offer valuable insights and guidance.
Pros
- Specialized Focus on Individual Disciplines: EET’s courses are designed to provide in-depth coverage of specific engineering disciplines, which can be highly beneficial for students who need targeted preparation. This focused approach ensures that students gain a deep understanding of their chosen field.
- Targeted Review Materials for In-Depth Study: The study materials provided by EET are tailored to the specific sections of the exam, offering detailed explanations and practice problems that align closely with the exam content. This targeted review helps reinforce critical concepts and skills needed for the exam.
- Recommended by Students on Forums: EET has received positive feedback from students on various forums, who commend the quality of instruction and the effectiveness of the study materials. This peer endorsement can be reassuring for prospective students considering the course.
Cons
- Narrow Focus May Not Cover All Exam Topics Comprehensively: While EET’s specialized approach is beneficial for in-depth study, it may not cover the full range of topics on the PE exam comprehensively. Students might need to supplement their studies with additional resources to ensure they are prepared for all aspects of the exam.
- Higher Cost for Specialized Courses: The cost of EET’s courses can be higher compared to more general PE prep courses. This higher price point may not be justifiable for all students, particularly those on a tight budget or those seeking a broader overview of exam topics.
- Less Flexibility in Course Offerings: EET’s focus on discipline-specific courses means there is less flexibility in terms of course offerings. Students who require a more comprehensive or varied study approach may find this limiting and might need to look for additional resources to fill in any gaps.
Engineering Education and Training
6. Testmasters: Decent but Lacking Modern Features
Testmasters offers a variety of PE exam preparation courses, but despite some appealing aspects, several significant drawbacks may make it less attractive compared to other options.
Course Options and Key Features
- Classroom Course: Live, in-person sessions are ideal for those who prefer a traditional classroom setting.
- Online Course: Flexible video-based instruction for self-motivated learners.
- Group Course: Custom courses for businesses or universities.
Pros
- Experienced Instructors: Testmasters boasts instructors with over 35 years of experience in teaching PE courses. Their deep knowledge and familiarity with the exam format can provide valuable insights and help students focus on key topics needed to pass the exam.
- Unlimited Course Retakes: One notable advantage is the guarantee to retake the course for free if you attend all classes and do not pass the exam. This can provide peace of mind and an additional opportunity to improve without extra cost.
- Comprehensive Course Materials: Testmasters offers extensive course materials, including 72 hours of instruction for PE courses. The materials are designed to focus on exam preparation, with numerous practice problems worked out in class to help students become familiar with the types of questions they will encounter.
Cons
- Limited Recognition and Outdated Methods: While Testmasters is established, it doesn’t have the widespread recognition of some other PE prep providers. Additionally, the reliance on traditional classroom settings and printed materials can feel outdated in an era where online and interactive learning tools are becoming standard.
- Limited Practice Questions: Compared to other PE prep courses, Testmasters provides a relatively smaller number of practice questions. This limited pool of questions might not offer enough variety and depth for comprehensive exam preparation, potentially leaving students underprepared.
- Outdated Website and Registration Process: The Testmasters website and registration process are not as user-friendly or modern as those of other providers. The outdated interface can be cumbersome to navigate, and the registration process, which includes options like faxing forms, feels antiquated and inconvenient.
Testmasters offers a solid foundation with experienced instructors and comprehensive course materials, but its limited recognition, outdated methods, and fewer practice questions can be significant drawbacks. Prospective students should carefully consider these factors when choosing a PE exam prep course to ensure it meets their specific needs and learning preferences.
Testmasters
PE Review Course Comparisons
School of PE vs. PPI2Pass
When comparing School of PE and PPI2Pass, both offer excellent resources for PE exam preparation. School of PE excels in structured learning environments with live online classes and comprehensive study materials. This is ideal for those who thrive in interactive settings with real-time instructor support. PPI2Pass, on the other hand, provides a wide array of study guides, practice problems, and practice exams, offering more flexibility with its self-paced and on-demand options. While both are excellent choices, School of PE’s structured approach and fact that they have tons of live options makes it the top pick for those who need a more guided study experience.
PPI2Pass vs. Civil Engineering Academy
PPI2Pass and Civil Engineering Academy both offer robust resources, but they cater to slightly different needs. PPI2Pass stands out with its extensive practice problems and time management strategies, making it suitable for a wide range of engineering disciplines. Civil Engineering Academy focuses specifically on the civil PE exam, offering targeted support and resources such as video practice problems and a supportive online community. For civil engineers, Civil Engineering Academy’s tailored approach might be more beneficial, though PPI2Pass provides a more versatile option for various disciplines.
Civil Engineering Academy vs. Capstone Learning Associates
While Civil Engineering Academy provides focused content for civil engineers, Capstone Learning Associates offers a broader range of courses. However, Capstone has mixed reviews regarding the consistency and quality of its materials. The civil PE course from Civil Engineering Academy includes on-demand learning, supplementary resources like video lectures, and a supportive community, which helps address specific needs for the PE civil exam review. In contrast, Capstone’s inconsistent quality and smaller number of practice questions make Civil Engineering Academy the better choice for civil engineers.
Capstone Learning Associates vs. EET
Capstone Learning Associates and EET both offer specialized courses, but EET focuses more narrowly on specific engineering disciplines. EET’s discipline-specific courses provide in-depth study materials and live instruction, which can be beneficial for detailed preparation. However, this narrow focus means EET may not cover all exam topics comprehensively, requiring additional resources for thorough preparation. Capstone, despite its mixed reviews, offers a broader curriculum but suffers from quality inconsistencies. For those needing highly specialized content, EET is preferable, though students should be prepared to supplement their studies.
EET vs. Testmasters
EET and Testmasters both offer valuable PE exam prep courses but with notable differences. EET’s discipline-specific courses offer detailed materials and live classes, but they lack flexibility and comprehensive coverage for all exam topics. Testmasters provides extensive course materials and the advantage of unlimited course retakes if you don’t pass, but it falls short with an outdated website and fewer practice questions. EET’s more modern and targeted approach might be more suitable for those needing specialized preparation, whereas Testmasters could appeal to those looking for reassurance with their unlimited retake policy.
Bottom Line
While there are several PE exam prep courses available, the best options for comprehensive and effective preparation are School of PE, PPI2Pass, and Civil Engineering Academy. School of PE stands out for its structured learning environment and extensive support. PPI2Pass is highly praised for its rigorous practice problems and flexible study options. Civil Engineering Academy offers targeted support specifically for civil engineers. Each course has its strengths, and your choice should depend on your specific needs and learning preferences.
FAQ
Successfully passing the PE exam enhances your credentials, demonstrates expertise in your field, and boosts career growth opportunities. Employers recognize the PE license as a mark of professional excellence and commitment to high standards, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
When selecting a PE exam prep course, ensure it provides comprehensive resources tailored to your specific field. For the electrical PE exam, choose a prep course with detailed coverage of electrical principles and practice problems. If preparing for the chemical PE exam, look for in-depth review materials specific to chemical engineering. For the civil PE exam, select a course offering extensive practice problems and lectures on civil engineering concepts. A specialized PE prep course for your discipline maximizes preparation and increases your chances of passing.
The PE exam focuses on advanced engineering concepts and practical applications, while the FE exam covers fundamental principles. A specialized review course can help manage the focused content of the PE exam, offering depth in the chosen engineering discipline and ensuring you have the practical skills needed for professional practice.
When selecting a PE exam prep course for civil engineering, ensure it covers the specific exam specifications and includes preparation for the depth exam. Look for a course that utilizes the civil engineering reference manual to provide thorough and accurate study materials. This ensures you have the best resources to comprehensively prepare for the exam.
A deep understanding of engineering principles is crucial for the PE exam, as it tests your ability to apply core concepts in real-world scenarios. Choose a review course that emphasizes practical applications and scenarios to enhance your grasp of engineering functions and responsibilities, ensuring you are well-prepared for both the exam and your professional practice.
