What Happens After You Take the FE Exam
You have completed the FE exam and left the testing center. Now begins the waiting period for your results. Understanding the post-exam process helps you manage expectations and take the right next steps whether you pass or do not pass.
Results Timeline
FE exam results are typically available within 7 to 10 business days after your exam date. During busy testing periods, processing may take slightly longer. You will receive an email notification from NCEES when your results are posted to your account.
Do not contact NCEES or your state board during the waiting period asking for early results. The scoring and equating process takes time, and results are released as soon as they are ready.
Accessing Your Results
Log in to your NCEES account to view your results. You will see one of two outcomes:
- Pass: Congratulations! You have demonstrated the minimum level of competence expected of an entry-level engineer.
- Did Not Pass: While disappointing, this is not the end of your licensure journey. The diagnostic report will help you prepare for a stronger retake.
Understanding the Diagnostic Report
Regardless of your result, NCEES provides a diagnostic report showing your performance in each content area relative to the passing standard. The report uses descriptive indicators rather than numerical scores. This information helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses, which is particularly valuable if you need to retake the exam.
Keep in mind that the diagnostic report reflects your performance on scored questions only. Unscored pilot questions are excluded from the analysis. Also, "near the passing standard" in a content area could mean slightly above or slightly below, so do not assume you passed or failed a specific area based on this indicator alone.
If You Passed: Getting EIT Certification
Passing the FE exam qualifies you to apply for EIT (Engineer in Training) or EI (Engineer Intern) certification through your state licensing board. The specific process varies by state:
Step 1: Apply to Your State Board
Most states require a separate application for EIT certification after passing the FE exam. Some states issue the certification automatically upon passing. Check your state board's requirements and application process.
Step 2: Submit Required Documentation
Your state board may require proof of education, transcripts, or other documentation. Some states require references from practicing engineers. Gather these documents promptly to avoid delays in certification.
Step 3: Pay Certification Fees
Many states charge a fee for issuing the EIT certificate, separate from the exam fee. This fee varies by state.
Step 4: Receive Your Certificate
Once your application is approved, you will receive your EIT certification, either as a physical certificate, an electronic certificate, or both. Some states also issue a wallet card.
What EIT Certification Means
The EIT certification recognizes that you have passed the fundamentals examination and are on the path toward professional engineering licensure. While the EIT credential does not authorize you to practice engineering independently (that requires a PE license), it demonstrates competence to employers and clients, it is required in most states before you can sit for the PE exam, it allows you to begin accumulating the engineering experience required for PE licensure, and some employers require or prefer EIT-certified engineers for certain positions.
After EIT: The Path to PE Licensure
The typical path from EIT to PE involves:
- Gain professional experience: Most states require 4 years of progressive engineering experience under the supervision of a licensed PE
- Document your experience: Keep detailed records of your engineering projects, responsibilities, and supervising PEs
- Apply for the PE exam: After meeting the experience requirement, apply through your state board
- Pass the PE exam: The PE exam is discipline-specific and tests more advanced engineering knowledge
- Receive your PE license: Upon passing the PE exam and meeting all state requirements
If You Did Not Pass: Next Steps
Receiving a "did not pass" result is disappointing but common. Many successful PEs did not pass the FE exam on their first attempt. Here is what to do:
- Allow yourself time to process the disappointment, then refocus on your goal
- Study your diagnostic report carefully to identify weak content areas
- Evaluate your study approach honestly and identify what needs to change
- Review the retake policy (waiting period and any attempt limits)
- Create a targeted study plan focused on your identified weaknesses
- Consider additional resources (review course, study group, tutor) if your previous approach was insufficient
- Register and schedule your retake when ready
Maintaining Your Certification
EIT certification maintenance requirements vary by state. Some states require renewal every few years, while others issue the certification without an expiration date. Some states require the EIT certificate to be active when you apply for the PE exam. Check your state board's requirements to ensure your certification remains valid throughout your path to PE licensure.