Do Employers Care Which FE Exam You Take? Picking an FE Exam Discipline

In today's competitive job market, new engineering graduates are faced with the ever-growing challenge of standing out from a pool of their peers. An effective method in which an engineer may significantly capture an employer’s attention is to obtain their professional licensure, but to do that, they must first pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. However, many aspiring engineers often wonder if employers pay special attention to which specific FE exam was taken and passed. The aim of this blog is to answer that very question and reveal the relevance of which FE exam(s) capture the eyes of potential employers.

In this Blog,

1. Understanding the FE Exam

2. Employer Perspective

3. Factors Influencing Employer Perception

3.1. Relevance to the Job

3.2. Specialized Positions

3.3. Personal Interests and Career Goals

Understanding the FE Exam:

Before we begin exploring the perspective of an employer, it is essential for you to understand the purpose and structure of the FE exam. To begin, the FE is administered and overseen by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), an American non-profit dedicated to advancing professional licensure for engineers and surveyors. It is designed for recent graduates and students and evaluates an engineer’s fundamental engineering knowledge across various disciplines.

Being an evaluation of the fundamentals of engineering, naturally, there are multiple FE exam specifications that an examinee may take: Chemical, Civil, Electrical & Computer, Environmental, Industrial & Systems, Mechanical, and Other Disciplines. While each discipline requires a base knowledge of engineering as a whole, they are also tested on the specifics of their field. You can learn more about the different FEs by exploring the available PDFs on Exam Specifications here.

Employer Perspective:

When it comes to which FE you should take, it is important to consider that while all exams cover the same overall fundamentals of engineering, employers are looking for applicants who have successfully passed the FE of their career specification. Although the primary objective of the FE exam is to demonstrate that an engineer has a solid grasp of the foundational principles, regardless of the chosen discipline, someone who has succeeded in obtaining their Engineer in Training (EIT) certification in Civil Engineering will not have the same background needed in a job looking for an electrical engineer.

It is true that employers prioritize the quality of the engineer; this is because they want to hire someone who not only understands engineering but is able to utilize their knowledge in tackling problems. However, there is a reason that engineering has different courses and degrees for different disciplines, with each having its own strengths and weaknesses that not everyone can fulfill at once. Although there are different specialized exams for various engineering fields, they all cover the core topics that all engineers need to know.

Factors Influencing Employer Perception:

Now that we know what the FE exam is, what FE exams are offered, and what employers generally consider, let us examine further factors that will influence which exam you should take for your future career.

1. Relevance to the Job

It is no surprise that employers are looking at applicants who are well acquainted with the specific discipline relating to the nature of the job or industry in which they operate. To solidify this concept, we will look at civil engineering; it is a requirement that civil engineers have obtained or are in the process of obtaining their EIT or professional licensure in order to be promoted. This is because civil projects must have people in management who are well-versed in their field, as they are also responsible for the many lives who will be using their projects.

A broad foundation established throughout all the FE exams does not equip every engineer to tackle the various challenges that different disciplines encounter in their specific work.

2. Specialized Positions

Continuing from the previous point, certain positions, particularly those in highly specialized fields such as aerospace engineering or biomedical engineering, require their candidates to have a more tailored skill set. In these cases, it is far more crucial to have relevant coursework or experience in that specific field.

Aerospace is a branch of mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering is branched off electrical engineering, meaning both are fields that require engineers to have a strong foundation in their own specifications and a strong knowledge base of their mother discipline. Engineering is an ever-evolving field of study, with new branches of discipline spawning whenever a major advancement in science occurs.

3. Personal Interests and Career Goals:

Prioritizing what future employers are looking for can only be done once you have taken into account where your own personal interests lie and where your career goals are. Some candidates may have a genuine passion for a specific discipline and aspire to pursue a career in a more specialized field. In such cases, taking the discipline-specific FE exam, which aligns with their career aspirations, can only be viewed positively by employers who value passion and dedication. Employers often appreciate candidates who demonstrate a clear focus and drive for their careers.

Conclusion

To answer the question posed at the beginning of the blog, yes, employers do care which FE exam you take. As stated in the name, each of the specialized exams requires that the examinees be well-versed in the fundamentals of engineering. Still, the many different fields of engineering require a greater focus on their specific fields. Employers do focus on a candidate’s ability to adapt and learn within their organizations, but they are also searching for candidates who satisfy the requirements of the designated industry.

Aspiring engineers should choose the FE exam that aligns with their interests and long-term career goals. By highlighting a solid foundation of engineering knowledge and demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow, candidates can present themselves as valuable assets to potential employers.

By understanding the employer's perspective and considering the factors that may influence their perception, engineering graduates can make informed decisions regarding their FE exam choice, positioning themselves for success in the competitive job market.

Are you preparing to take an FE exam? School of PE has helped thousands of students prepare for and pass their FE exams and get on the path to licensure. Learn more today about our #1-rated courses now!

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

Seeding Progress: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Sprouts Growth Across America

The winding legislative path of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, formally known as H.R. 3684, demonstrates the arduous process required to transform an ambitious policy proposal into bipartisan law. Introduced in the House on June 4, 2021, by Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR), the bill faced skepticism from Republicans and weeks of intense negotiations to scale back spending and refine priorities. After gaining House approval in a close vote on July 1, 2021, H.R. 3684 underwent further changes in the Senate before finally passing 69-30 on August 10. With the stalemate broken, the House adopted the Senate version on November 5, clearing the way for President Biden's signature on November 15. The turbulent timeline provides insight into how contentious and uncertain major legislation can be, even with broad consensus on the need for upgrades to America's infrastructure. What emerged after months of debate was an imperfect yet historic $1.2 trillion investment package few imagined possible, proving compromise remains achievable in a deeply divided Congress (Resource Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Implementation and Key Resources, 2022).

In this Blog,

1. Division A

2. Division B

3. Division C

4. Division D

5. Division E

Division A

Much fanfare surrounded the Infrastructure Act's largesse for roads and bridges, but Division A reaches beyond conventional highway programs. Wildlife finds refuge in new crossing corridors as states gain resources to control invasive roadside vegetation. Electric vehicle charging stations blossom along designated alternative fuel corridors to aid the zero-emissions transition. Port facilities can tap new grants to cut diesel emissions from idling trucks. Amid the road and transit upgrades are welcome investments in safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Tribal communities gain more direct funding and involvement in planning. Even the highway workforce receives attention, with states encouraged to analyze personnel needs. States remain the key implementers, but enhanced planning and cooperation with federal agencies should deliver projects faster. Though still bound to the gas tax, highways emerge better equipped to meet new transportation challenges and serve all users more equitably (117th Congress, 2021).

Division B

Less glamorous models share the spotlight in the Infrastructure Act's Division B, which tackles freight, rail, road safety, research, and more. Multimodal freight policy gains new coordination and planning mandates to improve stressed supply chains. Railroad crossings and passenger routes come under scrutiny, with new reporting on blocked crossings and Amtrak food service. Trucking workforce programs, stronger recall enforcement, emergency braking requirements, and anti-trafficking efforts address glaring safety gaps. Research initiatives span smart transportation pilot projects, climate-friendly concrete, crash data barriers, and marijuana impairment questions. Though catering to niche interests, the division's programs promise broader ripple effects. Upgraded rail connections could entice travelers from congested air and highway routes. Smoother coordination of freight infrastructure across modes would enhance U.S. competitiveness. Fewer road deaths and injuries from long-overdue safety measures offer immense social and economic benefits (117th Congress, 2021).

Division C

Tucked away in the lesser-known Division C of the infrastructure law are consequential updates for the nation’s public transit systems, which ferry essential workers and connect vulnerable populations to jobs, services, and opportunities. With innovation and climate at the forefront, the division empowers metropolitan planners to consider new factors shaping communities, like housing affordability. Capital grants for long-planned projects can finally exit limbo, advancing new high-capacity transit options. Intercity rail and bus networks stand to gain from new funding for cleaner, modern fleets. Rural and tribal areas, where transit access remains scarce, will benefit from targeted investment. Even the data itself will improve, arming decision-makers with insights into unmet needs. While later provisions claim more headlines, the public transit updates in Division C deliver meaningful, if quieter, impacts. The investments foreshadow a lower-carbon future where access to affordable mobility is more equitable across geographies and incomes (117th Congress, 2021).

Division D

Bolstering America's energy infrastructure to meet 21st-century needs is a key focus of Division D. It promotes investments to modernize the power grid, enhance reliability and resilience, and secure critical energy networks against cyber threats. Support for new transmission lines and technologies like battery storage aims to accelerate the transition to clean energy. Creating domestic supply chains for key minerals and advanced batteries will reduce dependence on foreign sources. Funding is provided for carbon capture, hydrogen production, and next-generation nuclear reactors. Upgrading hydroelectric facilities, plugging abandoned oil and gas wells, and reclaiming former mining lands also receive attention. Requirements to collect more energy data will inform future policy. Though not exhaustive, the division touches on priorities to position American energy systems for the future – cleaner, more secure, and more robust. Progress on these fronts will take time, but the legislation plants important seeds (117th Congress, 2021).

Division E

The Infrastructure Act devotes over $50 billion to one of the most essential and overlooked facets of infrastructure – the hidden water systems bringing safe drinking water to homes and removing wastewater (EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2023). Division E reinvigorates state revolving funds and the workhorses of water infrastructure financing while inaugurating programs to confront new challenges. Lead line replacement, cybersecurity risks, rural access, stormwater overflows, and resilient systems in the era of climate change all receive targeted funding. Special provisions aid disadvantaged communities and tribal systems long plagued by inadequate facilities. The infusion of resources begins to reverse the neglect of unseen pipes and plants that underpin public health. Though more remains to be done, the investments signal coming upgrades that will deliver cleaner, more reliable water to households across America – a worthwhile, if invisible, legacy.

Conclusion

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act emerges as a complex legislative patchwork stitched together through difficult compromise. Its breadth traces Congress' struggle to bundle priorities into a single viable package. While gaps and imperfections remain, the law channels funding into initiatives with far-reaching impacts on transportation networks, energy systems, and essential water services. Years of construction and upgrading lie ahead. But the investments plant seeds of renewal across America's infrastructure landscape, even if sprouts take time to emerge. The measure's passage over partisan obstinacy echoes earlier eras when ambitious public works gained broad support. Though overshadowed by later social policy bills, the legacy of the infrastructure law may prove more tangible for average Americans in the long run through its nuts-and-bolts repair of a fraying foundation underlying national prosperity.

References

EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2023, May 4). 2022 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) | US EPA. EPA. Retrieved August 20, 2023, from https://www.epa.gov/infrastructure/2022-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-clean-water-and-drinking-water-state-revolving

117th Congress. (2021, 11 15). H.R.3684 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Congress.gov. Retrieved August 20, 2023, from https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684

Resource Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Implementation and Key Resources. (2022, October 13). National Conference of State Legislatures. Retrieved August 20, 2023, from https://www.ncsl.org/state-federal/infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-implementation-and-key-resources

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

From Earth to Mars: Perseverance's Journey of Discovery and What it Means for Us

Mars, our galaxy’s own "Red Planet," has captured our imagination with its unique rusted surface, and for centuries, we've looked up at the night sky and wondered about what’s beyond. This pursuit and desire to uncover what secrets Mars has to offer has driven us to develop cutting-edge space exploration technologies. A recent development in our exploration of our interplanetary neighbor is the Mars Rover Perseverance, which was launched by NASA on July 30, 2020. In this blog, we will embark on a captivating journey through this rover’s ambitious mission objectives and technological advancements, as well as reflect on the astonishing scientific discoveries it made.

In this Blog,

1. Mission Objectives

2. Technological Advancements

3. Scientific Discoveries

4. Ingenuity Helicopter

5. Collaboration and International Contributions

6. Future Implications

7. Challenges and Lessons Learned

Mission Objectives

The Mars Rover Perseverance is a testament to human ingenuity and determination to explore the unknown. Perseverance is tasked to explore and gather samples in the Jezero crater—in fact, its older rover cousin Curiosity has revealed that liquid water and microbes once existed on Mars. By studying Mars’ rocks, soil, and atmosphere, the Perseverance acts as an inquisitive geologist, piecing together the story of the Red Planet’s ancient past (NASA, 2020).

Not only is the Perseverance a remote geologist, but it also serves as a trailblazer for future missions to Mars by testing advanced technologies. Its mission includes evaluating the effectiveness of its landing system powered by a sky crane to ensure safe arrival on the Martian surface. The rover is also equipped with an ingenious sample caching system, enabling the robot to collect and store Martian rock and soil samples for a future sample return mission. This mission aims to bring these samples back to Earth, where scientists can conduct in-depth analyses using state-of-the-art laboratories. This would effectively create a Martian time capsule back to our home planet carrying secrets of the Red Planet.

Perseverance also carries the Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilization Experiment, or MOXIE for short. MOXIE is NASA’s attempt to prepare for future human exploration on the Martian surface. This amazing device intends to generate oxygen from the vast amounts of carbon dioxide in Mars’s atmosphere.

Technological Advancements

Perseverance is not just any ordinary rover but an upgrade on the Mars Science Library’s Curiosity rover. Its six wheels, coated with rugged treads, allow it to navigate treacherous terrains with ease. This rover can efficiently and quickly cover vast distances, akin to an intrepid explorer, to explore different regions of Mars (NASA, 2020).

The entry, descent, and landing phase, or EDL, was a true test of precision and timing for Perseverance. The rover had to autonomously navigate through the Martian atmosphere, braving the fiery entry, and execute a daring sky crane landing to ensure a gentle touchdown on the surface. It was a breathtaking and daring performance, solely relying on the engineering team’s proficiency in mathematical models, simulations, and implementations.

Once on Martian soil, Perseverance’s scientific prowess can truly shine with its arsenal of advanced instruments. Among the many cutting-edge tools is the SuperCam, which can vaporize rocks and soils with a laser to remotely analyze the composition of the samples. Its Mastcam-Z provides stunning high-definition 3D images of the Martian landscape, allowing scientists and the public alike to marvel at the alien beauty of Mars (NASA, 2020).

Scientific Discoveries

Perseverance's discoveries on Mars have been nothing short of awe-inspiring. Its predecessor, the Curiosity rover, has revealed clear evidence of Mars' watery past with the discovery of ancient river channels and lake beds. Through this discovery, NASA has sent the Perseverance to the Jezero crater, which suggests that billions of years ago, Mars might have been home to vast bodies of liquid water, making it a potential haven for life (NASA, 2020).

Quickly, the rover discovered organic matter through its exploration. Although no definitive evidence of past life has been found yet, the discovery of organic compounds, molecules containing carbon, the building block of life, has sparked hope and ignited curiosity. Perseverance's mission is like reading the planet's memoirs, slowly uncovering the story of its past inhabitants.

Ingenuity Helicopter

Enter Ingenuity, the groundbreaking helicopter attached to Perseverance. This little rotorcraft made history as the first vehicle to achieve powered flight on another planet. With each graceful flight, Ingenuity has opened new possibilities for future aerial exploration of distant worlds.

Collaboration and International Contributions

The Perseverance mission is a testament to humanity's ability to come together and collaborate for a shared goal. Scientists, engineers, and researchers from around the world, including collaborators from the U.S., Spain, and Norway, have joined hands in this grand endeavor. This collaboration reflects the universal human spirit of exploration and the collective thirst for knowledge.

Future Implications

Perseverance's development and accomplishments have established a new precedent for the future of space exploration. As we continue to study Mars' geology and uncover its past, we lay the groundwork for human missions to the Red Planet.

The success of this mission can inspire humanity’s space travel to become far bigger and bolder. As we gaze upon the stars, a future where humanity not only visits other planets but establishes permanent residences beyond Earth becomes ever more achievable.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Perseverance's mission has been a testament to the resilience of our indomitable human spirit. Along the way, the rover has and will encounter challenges that test our intelligence and ingenuity. The EDL phase, for instance, was a high-stakes maneuver that had to be executed flawlessly, but in the face of adversity, we persevered (pun intended), and each challenge taught us valuable lessons.

The rover's tireless efforts have shown us that no dream is too big and no obstacle is insurmountable. The journey to Mars is a reminder that, despite the vastness of space and the difficulties of interplanetary travel, humanity's determination knows no bounds.

Conclusion

The Mars Rover Perseverance has created a new precedent for extraordinary voyages throughout our galaxy. From its ambitious mission objectives to its technological marvels, from its breathtaking journey to its astonishing scientific findings, Perseverance has redefined the boundaries of human exploration.

As we look to the future, Perseverance's triumph fills us with hope and inspiration. It showcases the brilliance of human ingenuity and the power of international collaboration. Our quest to explore Mars and the cosmos reflects the very essence of humanity—the unyielding curiosity that drives us to explore and understand our universe.

The Mars Rover Perseverance reminds us that we are cosmic wanderers reaching out to touch the stars. Through our endeavors, we gain not only a deeper understanding of the universe but also a profound appreciation for the fragile beauty of our own home planet, Earth.

References

NASA. (2020, July 30). Mars 2020 Mission Overview. NASA Mars Exploration. Retrieved July 23, 2023, from https://mars.nasa.gov/mars2020/mission

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

Financing the FE Exam: A Complete Breakdown of FE Exam Expenses

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is an important step for engineers in obtaining their Professional Engineer (PE) license. There is an upfront fee to take the exam, which varies depending on several factors. This blog aims to clarify these factors, and then we will go over various aspects that contribute to the overall financial cost of preparing and taking the FE exam, such as registration fees, study materials, and other miscellaneous items.

In this blog,

FE Exam Cost Breakdown:

1. Registration Fee

2. Study Materials

3. Calculator

4. Travel Expenses

5. Retake Fees

6. Additional Costs

Cost Breakdown

1. Registration Fee: The FE exam comes has a registration fee. Starting January 1, 2024, the registration fee for the FE exam in the United States is $225. These fees are subject to change, and some licensing boards require additional application fees, so it is advisable to check the current pricing at the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) website.
   
   There are also reasonable accommodations for which examinees can apply. Please visit the Exam Resources section on the NCEES website.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Study Materials: Examines should expect to invest in study materials such as textbooks, reference guides, practice exams, and online courses in preparation for the FE exam. Pricing for all the various study materials will vary wildly depending on the format and quality. One can expect to pay at least $50 for a single textbook or study guide and up to a few hundred dollars for comprehensive online courses or review packages.
   
   
3. Calculator: NCEES requires all calculators used during the examination to meet specific criteria. Casio FX-115 series calculators are commonly used by examinees, but other calculators are also allowed. Please see the complete list below:
   
   
   
   
   

   Calculators vary in price. However, some examinees may already own an approved calculator, so this cost may be negligible for them.
   
   
4. Travel Expenses: Depending on the location of the exam center, candidates may incur some travel expenses. This can include costs such as transportation (flights, gas, or public transport), accommodation (if the exam center is far from their residence), and meals. The extent of these expenses varies for each candidate based on their proximity to the exam center.
   
   
5. Retake Fees: In the unfortunate chance that a candidate does not pass the FE exam on their first attempt, they are able to retake it, but they will need to pay the registration fee again for each subsequent attempt. It is important to consider this potential cost since everyone won’t pass on their first attempt.
   
   
6. Additional Costs: A cost that may not always be considered is the cost in time away to study. There will be a social cost where examinees will forgo going out with friends and family, a professional cost where vacation days or paid time off will be needed to adequately prepare for the test, and other costs associated with dedicating time and focus to studying.

Conclusion

It is worth noting that the costs mentioned above are approximate and can vary based on a multitude of personal circumstances and situations. We recommend visiting the official NCEES website or contacting their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the cost of the FE exam.

Remember, investing in proper preparation for the FE exam is crucial for success. It can save you money in the long run by avoiding retake fees and accelerating your path to becoming a licensed Professional Engineer.

Another great way to save yourself effort, money, and time is to take an exam review course with School of PE. Our courses boost your chances of passing to a whopping 93%! Check out our exam review options today.

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.

FE-eling Flustered? Top 6 Blunders to Avoid on the FE Exam

Achieving your Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) certification is the crucial first step towards achieving your Professional Engineering (PE) license. As such, the FE exam can seem incredibly daunting. Proper test-taking preparations and a strong understanding of the material can significantly reduce the chances of you making some of the common mistakes others have made. This blog will attempt to explore some of the most common pitfalls that examinees encounter and provide valuable insights on how to avoid and overcome them. By implementing these strategies, you will be better equipped to conquer the FE exam and pave the way for a successful engineering career.

Top 6 Blunders to Avoid on the FE Exam

1. Underestimating the Importance of Exam Specifications

2. Insufficient Familiarity with Reference Materials

3. Inadequate Time Management

4. Neglecting Hands-On Problem Solving

5. Overlooking Exam Strategies and Techniques

6. Neglecting Physical and Mental Well-Being

Identifying Mistakes

Let’s go over the six most common mistakes that many test takers make during their first go at the FE: underestimating the exam, unfamiliarity with the exam materials, poor time management, neglecting hands-on practice, overlooking review materials, and forgoing health. While not a complete list of every pitfall you may face when preparing for the FE, this guide is here to identify and manage the ones you are most likely going to encounter.

1. Underestimating the Importance of Exam Specifications

Whether it is due to overconfidence or inexperience with the FE, a significant mistake many examinees make is disregarding the exam specifications. An exam outline is available at the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) website; looking at it, it clearly defines the content areas and their respective weights. To avoid wasting any of your time and effort on irrelevant and low-impact material, thoroughly review the respective exam specifications.

By understanding which topics carry greater weight, you can prioritize your study plan accordingly. Devote more time to mastering the areas that have a higher percentage of questions on the exam, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the content that matters most.

2. Insufficient Familiarity with Reference Materials

While obvious, an incredibly common mistake many make is failing to familiarize themselves with the reference materials allowed during the exam. The NCEES will provide you with a comprehensive list of approved usable resources, including equations, tables, and other information needed for immediate lookup.

Neglecting to study and practice using the available reference handbook can hinder your performance during the exam; not familiarizing yourself with the handbook will take away more of your precious time to find the relevant information for certain questions. This is why it is highly advised that you take the time to review and understand the contents of the approved reference materials. In doing so, you efficiently navigate the necessary information to solve problems accurately.

3. Inadequate Time Management

Effective time management is vital to the success of your exam attempt. Many examinees struggle with allocating enough time for every question, resulting in unfinished sections or rushed answers. To avoid this, you should develop a realistic study schedule that incorporates regular practice tests under timed test-taking conditions. Attempting to simulate the exam environment, you are able to gauge your speed and accuracy when answering the many questions.

Identify the topics and questions that require more of your time and become accustomed to working through them as efficiently as possible within the allocated time frame. Additionally, during the actual exam, consider specifying a set amount of time for each section and question, allowing you to stay on track and complete the exam without wasting seconds.

4. Neglecting Hands-On Problem Solving

Merely memorizing concepts and formulas without applying them to practical problems is a recipe for failure. The FE exam is designed to assess your ability to solve real-world engineering problems, so while the questions may be similar to those you may see on your practice test, the questions will be varied enough that you cannot simply just remember what the answer may be. 

Dedicate ample time to practicing actual practice problems, solving multiple workbooks, and redoing each problem several times. This hands-on approach can improve your understanding of each concept, strengthen your critical thinking skills, and familiarize yourself with the exam format. Actively solving problems will enhance your ability to identify the correct approach, apply relevant formulas, and arrive at accurate solutions efficiently.

5. Overlooking Exam Strategies and Techniques

While technical knowledge is essential, understanding effective exam strategies and techniques is equally crucial. Ignoring these strategies can hinder your ability to answer questions efficiently and accurately. To maximize your performance, familiarize yourself with common exam strategies. For instance, carefully read each question to fully grasp what is being asked before jumping into the solution. By eliminating obviously incorrect choices, you can narrow down the options and improve your chances of selecting the correct answer. Additionally, employing the process of elimination when unsure increases the probability of selecting the right answer. Practice these strategies during your exam preparation to develop a systematic approach to problem-solving that will save time and reduce errors.

6. Neglecting Physical and Mental Well-Being

Preparing for the FE exam can be mentally and physically demanding. Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, stress, and decreased performance. It is crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout your exam preparation. Ensure that you are getting enough sleep to rest and recharge your mind. Regular exercise, even a short walk or stretching, can help improve blood circulation and enhance cognitive function. Fuel your body with nutritious meals to support optimal brain function. Take breaks during your study sessions to engage in activities you enjoy, such as hobbies or spending time with friends and family. These breaks will help alleviate stress, increase focus, and prevent burnout. Prioritizing your well-being will contribute to a clear mind, heightened concentration, and overall better exam performance. 

Conclusion

Passing the FE exam is a significant milestone for aspiring engineers. By avoiding the common mistakes discussed in this blog and implementing the suggested strategies, you can enhance your chances of success and approach the exam with confidence. Thoroughly reviewing exam specifications, familiarizing yourself with reference materials, managing your time effectively, practicing hands-on problem-solving, employing effective exam strategies, and prioritizing your physical and mental well-being are key elements to excel in the FE exam. With a strategic approach and diligent preparation, you can conquer the FE exam and set yourself on the path towards a rewarding engineering career.

Looking for a comprehensive FE exam prep solution? Check out School of PE’s FE exam prep courses to access our top-rated tools and resources designed to help you pass! 

About the Author: Khoa Tran

Khoa Tran is an electrical engineer working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and is currently pursuing his master's in electrical Power from the University of Southern California. He is fluent in both Vietnamese and English and is interested in outdoor activities and exploring new things.