Overview
This lecture provides a comprehensive guide for passing the PE Civil Engineering Exam, including exam format, preparation strategies, recommended resources, and test-taking tips.
What is the PE Exam?
- The PE (Professional Engineer) exam tests civil engineering knowledge gained through work experience.
- In New York, requirements include an ABET-accredited undergrad degree, passing the FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) exam, and four years of work experience (a master’s degree counts as one year).
- Passing the PE exam allows engineers to become licensed, sign and seal documents, and access more job opportunities.
PE Exam Format & Recent Updates
- The exam is computer-based, taken at a test center, with all references provided digitally.
- Exam consists of 80 questions in 8 hours (6 minutes per question), with a 10-minute tutorial and a 50-minute optional break.
- A passing score is about 70% (56/80 correct answers).
- As of April 2024, “breadth” questions were removed; all questions now focus on your specialty.
Steps to Prepare for the PE Exam
- Choose an NCEES-approved calculator you know well and use it during practice.
- Select your specialty area based on your strongest background.
- Download and study all official reference materials and handbooks.
- Practice searching keywords in references to save time during the exam.
Recommended Study Resources
- Online courses like School of PE boost pass rates (up to 93%).
- Use practice workbooks and exams (School of PE, NCEES) updated to April 2024 specs.
- Aim for 60–65 correct out of 80 on practice exams to gauge readiness.
Study & Preparation Tips
- Study consistently—daily sessions are better for retention than infrequent, long sessions.
- Focus on completing practice problems and full-length practice exams.
- Schedule your exam date early to provide study motivation.
- Prioritize understanding concepts over memorization.
Test-Taking Strategies
- Manage time by limiting yourself to 6 minutes per question—flag tough problems and return later.
- Tackle easier questions first, regardless of order.
- Carefully read each question twice and confirm required units to avoid mistakes.
- Use digital references efficiently with keyword searches.
- For difficult questions, use back-solving: substitute answer choices to eliminate incorrect ones.
Key Terms & Definitions
- PE Exam — Professional Engineering licensure exam for civil engineers.
- FE Exam — Fundamentals of Engineering exam, prerequisite for the PE.
- NCEES — National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying, exam administrator.
- Reference Handbook — Official digital guide provided during the exam.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Select and practice using your approved calculator.
- Download and review all exam references and handbooks.
- Register for an online prep course and purchase updated practice exams.
- Set a consistent study schedule and book your exam date.