FE Exam Without an Engineering Background: Is It Possible? Here's the Truth

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, also known as the Engineer in Training (EIT) exam, is the first step in becoming a licensed professional engineer in the United States. The exam is designed to test an examinee’s basic engineering knowledge, which is typically acquired through an undergraduate engineering degree. While that may be the case, there have been a few wondering “if it is possible to take and pass the FE exam without having the typical working engineering knowledge?”. The answer is maybe that not only would this endeavor be quite challenging, but the subject matter is not the only factor that decides whether or not someone could take the exam. Here's an overview of the FE exam and the feasibility of taking it without an engineering background.

In this Blog,

1. What is the FE Exam?

2. Who Typically Takes the FE Exam?

3. Is It Possible to Take the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree?

4. Steps to Prepare for the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree

What is the FE Exam?

The FE exam is a 6-hour computer-based test administered year-round by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). It covers core engineering subjects such as mathematics, statistics, chemistry, physics, engineering economics, ethics, and basic engineering principles within specific disciplines: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Industrial & Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Other Disciplines.

As of 2024, the exam currently consists of 110 multiple-choice questions. The exact topics, however, vary slightly depending on the chosen engineering discipline; the specific subjects tested can be viewed on the NCEES website and through the exam specifications provided information.

Passing the FE exam demonstrates an understanding of basic engineering concepts and the specific discipline chosen, but it is also often the first step to acquiring an entry-level engineering position in certain industries. Obtaining an EIT certification is also required to move forward to taking the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, which is necessary for professional engineering licensure.

Who Typically Takes the FE Exam?

Before taking the FE without a traditional background in engineering, let us go over who the exam was written for. As stated by the administrator of the exam, NCEES, the FE exam is recommended for recent engineering graduates and working engineers.

Current engineering students and recent graduates who have completed an EAC/ABET-accredited engineering program still likely have the material they learned in class fresh in their minds, making them great candidates to take the exam and pass.

The ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) is an ISO 9001-certified organization that accredits most engineering degree programs internationally. ABET-accredited programs would typically cover the fundamentals tested on the FE exam.

Working engineers may also take the FE exam, especially if their undergraduate degree is from a non-accredited program. The FE exam should be taken for those who are in an industry where professional licensure is required for promotions and contracting. In some states, it is required to pass the FE exam for licensure, even for experienced engineers with many years under their belt. The examinee must have the proper educational and experience credentials to register for the exam.

Is It Possible to Take the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree?

The FE exam does not explicitly require an examinee to have an engineering degree before they are able to take it, and in some cases, engineering students are able to take it before receiving their degree. Ultimately, eligibility varies by state licensing boards, but most require a degree in engineering or engineering technology from an ABET-accredited program. Some states allow applicants to substitute education and work experience to demonstrate equivalent knowledge, and there are a few that allow anyone with a college degree in a STEM field to take it.

Without having the typical engineering educational background, is it possible to independently acquire the knowledge needed to pass the exam? Perhaps, with the right combination of self-study, practice, and determination. There is a plethora of study guides and preparation materials online, and the FE Reference Handbook provided as a study resource for the exam can supplement some fundamental knowledge gaps. Even without enrolling in engineering, topics like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and economics align with non-engineering curriculums. It is possible for an examinee to intensely self-study engineering principles not covered in their degree program, but obviously, this would require a significant amount of effort.

Steps to Prepare for the FE Exam Without an Engineering Degree

For the determined non-engineer wanting to tackle the FE exam, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:

1. Ensure that your state licensing board allows you to take the FE without actively pursuing or already obtaining an engineering degree from an accredited program.
2. Choose an engineering discipline exam that best aligns with your background or interests. Mechanical, electrical, civil, and chemical are common options for non-engineers.
3. Obtain the NCEES FE Reference Handbook and examine the topics covered in the exam specifications for your chosen discipline. Identify knowledge gaps.
4. Study FE exam prep books and materials. Many focus on the fundamentals tested and provide practice problems with solutions. Work through them meticulously.
5. Master mathematics completely. Math is a significant component of the FE exam, so ensure algebra, trigonometry, calculus, probability, and statistics are locked down.
6. Enroll in online courses to fill discipline-specific knowledge gaps. Many platforms, like School of PE, offer FE exam reviews or engineering fundamental courses to supplement self-study.
7. Solve hundreds of practice exam questions. FE exam prep books and online resources provide realistic multiple-choice questions. Practice makes perfect.
8. Don't neglect studying the general engineering principles that span disciplines, like engineering economics, ethics, and quality control.
9. Maintain confidence in yourself. With diligence and commitment, passing the FE exam without an engineering degree IS possible. Be mentally resilient.

Conclusion

The intensive preparation required gives non-engineers a shot at passing the FE exam, though the path is undoubtedly tougher. Obtaining an engineering education and gaining practical experience before testing will set any examinee up for an easier journey. While the FE exam is passable without working engineering knowledge, hands-on learning facilitates deeper mastery of the concepts and skills tested. For non-engineers, passionately immersing oneself in a self-driven engineering education may be the ticket to success. With determination and hard work, the FE exam can be conquered by those willing to put in the effort.

Whether you are a current engineering student or someone who graduated from their engineering program many years ago, School of PE can help you prepare with confidence for your FE exam. Learn more about our courses today or register 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.