How to Pass the FE Exam: Strategies, Tips and Resources

So, you’re trying to figure out how to pass the FE exam?

You’re not alone.

Pass rates for FE exams range from 49-75%, so it’s not going to be an easy pass unless you follow my proven study strategies covered below.

From practice exam options to full FE exam prep review programs, the internet is filled with materials that promise to help you ace this engineering exam on the first try. Unfortunately, few of them live up to the hype.

This is where first-hand information from those who have already aced this computer-based exam comes in. In this article, I’ve provided some of the top tips for getting the FE exam results you want.

Key Takeaways

• Start Early and Plan Your Study Schedule: Begin preparation months in advance with daily review sessions.
• Use the FE Reference Handbook: Familiarize yourself with the handbook and practice using the search function.
• Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and devote extra time to subjects where you are less confident.
• Utilize Online Resources and Study Guides: Use video tutorials, study guides, and structured courses for better understanding.
• Develop a Test-Taking Strategy: Prioritize high-yield topics, FE practice questions, and efficient time management during the test.

Effective Strategies for Passing the FE Exam

Whether you’re focused on mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, or some other type of professional engineering route, getting professional licensure means knowing how to pass. Here are some tips for how to pass the FE exam.

Start Early and Plan Your Study Schedule

Begin your preparation several months before the exam. Establish a study schedule that allocates specific times each day for review. Consistency is key, and spreading your study sessions over an extended period helps reinforce learning.

Use the FE Reference Handbook

The FE Reference Handbook is your best friend during the exam. Familiarize yourself with its content, as it’s the only resource allowed during the test. Practice using it while solving problems to increase your speed and accuracy.

Review Fundamental Concepts

Ensure you have a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts in each subject area. The FE exam tests your basic engineering knowledge, so reviewing textbooks and course notes from your undergraduate studies can be very helpful.

Focus on Weak Areas

Identify your weak subjects early in your preparation and devote extra time to these areas. Whether it’s mathematics, mechanics, or thermodynamics, targeted practice can significantly improve your performance.

Utilize Online Resources and Study Guides

There are numerous online resources, including video tutorials, forums, and study guides. Websites like School of PE and YouTube channels by experienced engineers offer structured courses and tips that can enhance your understanding of complex topics.

Join Study Groups

Studying with peers can provide motivation and different perspectives on difficult concepts. Join or form a study group where you can discuss problems and share study materials.

Stay Updated on Exam Policies

Familiarize yourself with the exam policies and procedures outlined by the NCEES. Knowing what to expect on exam day, including the types of questions and allowed materials, can reduce anxiety and improve your performance.

Last-Minute Study Tips for the FE Exam

If you’re down to the wire with just two weeks left before the FE exam, don’t worry—it’s still possible to prepare effectively. Here are some tips shared by fellow students who successfully navigated the final stretch:

1. Know How to Use the Search Function:
   • One user emphasized, “Know how to use the search function for equations is critical.” Familiarize yourself with the FE Reference Handbook and practice finding equations quickly. This can save you a lot of time during the exam.
2. Prioritize Practice Exams:
   • Practice exams are your friend. “Take a full-length practice exam and look over the equations manual. And maybe review some stuff that you didn’t do well on the practice exam,” advised one student. Taking timed practice tests can help you get used to the exam format and identify areas where you need further review.
3. Develop a Test-Taking Strategy:
   • Creating a strategy for the test can help manage your time and stress levels. One recommended approach is: “Identify the type of problem. Do you know the equation used to solve y/n Yes- Solve No-Use the search function to find the section in the manual. Can you solve it within 3 min? When in doubt, flag it and move on.” This method ensures you tackle the easier questions first and come back to the harder ones.
4. Focus on High-Yield Topics:
   • With limited time, concentrate on the subjects that carry the most weight. A user suggested, “Remember: you don’t need to ace the test, you need to just get into the high 60% range. So ace the math/stats, transport, econ, and geo sections and that’ll make up for your weaknesses.” Prioritize your studies to maximize your score in these areas.
5. Watch Educational Videos:
   • Several users recommended watching educational videos for last-minute reviews. “Watch the YouTube videos Marshall University put out. There’s only 12 of them and they’re 1-2 hours long,” advised one user. These videos can provide concise and effective reviews of key topics.
6. Manage Your Time Wisely During the Exam:
   • Time management is crucial. “Don’t spend too much time on a question. I aimed for less than three (3) minutes per question,” shared one student. Pacing yourself ensures you have enough time to address all questions and revisit any flagged ones.

Case Study: Passing the FE Civil Exam with Just 3 Days of Study

Overview: A soon-to-be civil engineering graduate recently shared his success story of passing the FE Civil exam despite only having three days to study. The COVID-19 pandemic had significantly impacted his education, leaving him with gaps in his knowledge.

Here’s how he managed to pull it off:

Procrastination and Preparation: The student admitted to procrastinating until three days before the exam. “I already rescheduled it once, so I figured I’d just study my hardest during the three days I had,” he explained. He focused on maximizing his efforts in this limited time frame.

Mastering the Reference Manual: He spent most of his study time learning the layout and format of the reference manual. At his test center, the PDF version of the manual loaded very slowly, making the search function indispensable. “Make sure you know where each equation/section falls, so you can minimize your scrolling,” he advised. The reference manual explains how to solve almost every problem, excluding conceptual ones, so mastering its layout was crucial.

Focusing on Easy Topics: Given his limited time, he prioritized mastering easier topics rather than attempting to cover everything. He shared his approach: “Economics should be an easy 100%. Just take an hour or two practicing them.” He also highlighted ethics, math, survey, construction, and mechanics of materials as subjects that could be quickly mastered for easy points. For ethics, he noted, “If any option sounds even slightly sus, it’s not the answer. Your answer is gonna be the most ‘moral’ option.”

Employing a Guessing Strategy: For questions he couldn’t understand or find in the reference manual, he used a multiple-choice guessing strategy. “The answer is most likely gonna be the option that includes the most aspects or variables from each of the other options,” he explained. This strategy involved selecting answers that combined elements from multiple choices, which he applied to nearly 40 questions.

Results: Despite his initial lack of confidence, the student passed the FE Civil exam. He attributed his success to performing strongly in the easier topics and employing a strategic guessing method for the more challenging ones. “I was confident that I failed it, but I must’ve performed strongly in the ‘easy topics’ and guessed good enough on the ‘hard topics’ that I was able to pass it,” he reflected.

Conclusion

Passing the FE exam is a significant milestone on the path to becoming a licensed professional engineer. By starting your preparation early, leveraging the FE Reference Handbook, and focusing on both your strengths and weaknesses, you can build a robust foundation for success. Utilize online resources and study guides, engage in study groups, and stay updated on exam policies to ensure you’re well-prepared.

Even if you’re short on time, strategic last-minute preparation and effective test-taking strategies can make a substantial difference. Remember, mastering easy topics and employing smart guessing techniques can help you tackle even the most challenging questions. With dedication, a structured study plan, and the right resources, you can confidently approach the FE exam and achieve the results you desire.

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