Skip to main content
Career Services Career Services
In this section
Career Services Home

Home  |  Career Services  |  Students  |  Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam

Fundamentals of (FE) Engineering Exam

The FE exam is more than just a test. It is the first step in gaining licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE). 

Engineering students commonly take this exam closer to their graduation term, since much of it is based on information learned throughout coursework. Classes that will help in your preparation for the general portions of the exam include Statics, Strength of Materials, Circuits, Thermodynamics, and Fluid Mechanics.

Career Services Home

Registering for the FE Exam

  • The FE exam is entirely computer-based testing (CBT).
  • The registration fee is $225.
  • Registration for the FE exam is open year-round.
  • The FE exam is administered year-round. An exam appointment is six hours long and includes a 25-minute break.
  • The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) has partnered with Pearson to provide test-taking facilities.

FE Exam Registration Steps

 

  1. Read the NCEES registration instructions.
  2. Fill out the NCEES ID Input Form to get a voucher to cover the cost of the exam.
  3. Register on the NCEES FE Exam Website.
    1. Search for the nearest testing center and register.
    2. Add Dartmouth as your education.
    3. You do not need to pick a date or location to take the exam when you register for it.
    4. Please select New Hampshire PE (not another state). There are many reasons to do this, primarily that it simplifies the registration process, and where you receive your Engineer-In-Training (EIT) certification does not impact where you sit your exam or where you can practice as an engineer in training. 

FE Exam Preparation

  • Please visit Dartmouth Engineering Library's guide for more information on preparing.
  • There are regulations regarding what type of calculator is permitted at the testing center.
  • The different exam areas are: Chemical, Civil, Electrical and Computer, Environmental, Industrial, Mechanical, and Other Disciplines. 
  • Module topics are available on the NCEES website, so you will know what to expect and can study accordingly.

Visit NCEES for more FE Exam info

Why the FE Exam Matters

The FE exam is your gateway to becoming a licensed engineer and a powerful way to stand out early in your career, especially in industries that impact public safety and infrastructure.

  • 1. It's the first step to licensure.

    Passing the FE exam designates you as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI). This is required if you plan to become a licensed PE which is essential for:

    • Signing and sealing engineering documents
    • Leading major infrastructure or public-facing projects
    • Advancing into senior technical leadership roles


    Even if licensure is not required immediately, passing the FE keeps that door open.

  • 2. It signals technical competency.

    The FE exam validates that you have a strong grasp of core engineering fundamentals: mathematics, science, and discipline-specific knowledge. Employers often view this as:

    • Proof of academic readiness
    • A differentiator in competitive job markets
    • A sign of long-term career commitment

  • 3. It can give you a hiring edge.

    Many employers, especially in regulated industries, prefer or require FE certification for entry-level roles. Having it on your resume can:

    • Set you apart from other candidates
    • Help you qualify for higher starting salaries or faster advancement
    • Show initiative and professionalism early in your career

  • 4. It's easier to take early.

    Students typically perform best when they take the FE exam close to graduation, while core concepts are still fresh. Waiting several years can make preparation more difficult.