What is the FE examination?

To become a Professional Engineer, a candidate must pass two exams. The first exam is the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, which is taken by recent graduates or by students enrolled in an EAC/ABET accredited program in their final year. The second exam is the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, which is taken after the candidate has gained professional experience. Experience requirements can vary by state.

Why take the FE exam?

To perform many engineering services, the person responsible for the work must be a registered engineer. Taking the FE exam is a first step on the path to becoming a licensed Professional Engineer. It is path that leads to expanded job opportunities and responsibilities. Those who are not registered must work under the supervision of a registered engineer.

What is the FE exam pass rate at the University of Iowa?

For the 2023 calendar year, University of Iowa Civil and Environmental students who took the FE exam prior to or within 12 months of graduation passed the FE exam at a rate higher than the national pass rate. Civil engineering majors at the University of Iowa had a pass rate of 68%, and the national pass rate was 64%. Environmental engineering majors had a pass rate of 86%, and the national pass rate was 78%.