How to Pass the FE & PE Exams: Top Study Guides, Review Courses & Certification Tips

 If you're an engineering student or early-career professional looking to advance your career, passing the FE and PE exams is a crucial step. These exams validate your technical expertise and are essential milestones in becoming a licensed engineer. Additionally, the CFM certification offers a specialized career path for those in floodplain and environmental management.

This blog offers everything you need to know about exam preparation using the best PE review courses, FE exam prep study guides, and more, so you can study smart and succeed.

What is the FE Exam?

The FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) exam is typically the first exam you take after completing (or nearing completion of) your undergraduate degree in engineering.

Key points:

  • Offered by NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying)

  • The FE Civil exam focuses on subjects like structures, geotechnical, water resources, transportation, and materials.

  • Passing the FE exam qualifies you as an EIT (Engineer in Training) or EI (Engineering Intern) a required step before taking the PE exam.

 FE Exam Prep: Why You Need It

Passing the FE exam isn’t just about being smart—it’s about being prepared. A good FE exam prep study guide and FE review course can help you:

  • Understand the NCEES specifications

  • Practice time management with mock tests

  • Build confidence by reviewing past questions

Recommended Study Tools:

  • NCEES FE Reference Handbook

  • FE Civil Practice Exams

  • Interactive FE review courses (online and self-paced)

 PE Exam Overview

After passing the FE and gaining four years of work experience under a licensed PE, you’re eligible for the PE (Professional Engineer) exam.

What the PE Exam Tests:

  • Discipline-specific knowledge (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)

  • Real-world problem solving

  • Codes, standards, and technical expertise

The PE exam helps validate your readiness to take on critical engineering responsibilities, lead projects, and ensure public safety.

 PE Review Course: Your Shortcut to Success

A PE review course is a structured program designed to help you pass the exam on the first attempt.

Benefits of Taking a PE Review Course:

  • Weekly study plans and checklists

  • Subject-matter expert guidance

  • Practice exams with solutions

  • Recorded sessions for flexible review

Some of the most trusted PE prep providers include PPI2Pass, School of PE, and Civil Engineering Academy.

 PE Exam Prep Study Guide: Study with Confidence

A PE exam prep study guide is your go-to companion for mastering topics. Look for guides that are:

  • Aligned with the NCEES exam format

  • Packed with example problems and detailed solutions

  • Easy to navigate with summaries and practice quizzes

Pairing a guide with a course gives you the best of both worlds: structured learning + self-study flexibility.


 Bonus: CFM Certification for Specialized Careers

Are you interested in environmental engineering, water resources, or floodplain management? Then the CFM (Certified Floodplain Manager) certification is perfect for you.

What is CFM Certification?

  • Recognizes expertise in FEMA regulations, floodplain mapping, and mitigation planning

  • Great for careers in civil engineering, city planning, and emergency management

  • Offered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM)

Adding a CFM certification to your PE license makes you stand out in public-sector and environmental roles.

 Final Tips for Students

Studying for professional exams like the FE and PE can be overwhelming but you’re not alone. With the right materials and study strategy, you’ll be on your way to passing with confidence.

To recap, here’s what you need:

  • A trusted FE exam prep study guide

  • A reliable FE review course for core concepts

  • A structured PE review course when you're ready

  • A thorough PE exam prep study guide for discipline-specific prep

  • Optional: CFM certification for a career in floodplain or environmental work

 Ready to start your exam journey?
Explore top-rated study guides and review courses designed to help students like you succeed.


Read more https://the-best-pe-civil-review-exam-prep.blogspot.com/2025/07/most-affordable-and-effective-pe-exam.html

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