Everything You Need To Know About the Day of Your FE Exam
It’s the big day! The day of your Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is finally here! You’ve been studying hard, and now it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. But before you walk into that testing center, there are a few things you need to do to make sure you’re prepared. Don’t worry! We’ve got a full checklist of what to do and bring on the day of your exam, plus the inside scoop and what to expect when you get to the testing center.
Save our full FE Exam day checklist! Just remember to relax, stay positive, and do your best.
Morning of the FE Exam
Eat Breakfast
First, eat a good, light breakfast. You’ll want to have some food in your stomach to help you think clearly and stay focused during the exam. It’s best if you eat fruit, a protein and a healthy fat to avoid being tired and heavy.
Meditate or Exercise to Ease Anxiety
It’s normal to feel nervous about taking a test. Meditation or a mild exercise like yoga or going for a walk can help reduce test anxiety and clear your mind to get you into the right state of mind to take your FE exam. Try to keep a positive attitude, it will help reduce the pressure you’re feeling. Don’t think about failing or the end result, focus on doing your best in the moment.
Map your Route (Check for traffic) to the Testing Center
To avoid being late or stressed on the day of your FE Exam, map out your route to the testing center the night before. This way, you can see if there are any road closures or traffic so you can plan accordingly. Make sure to leave early and give yourself enough time to get there, so you’re not rushed.
What to Bring to the FE:
ID
You’ll need to show a valid form of identification, like your driver’s license or passport, when you check in on test day.
Lunch/Snack
You’re allowed to bring food and drinks into the testing center to keep in your locker until you take a break. So make sure to pack a lunch or some snacks to keep your energy up.
Jacket
You want to be comfortable when taking such a long exam, so dress in clothes that won’t make you too hot or too cold. Layers are always a good idea in case the room temperature is different than what you’re expecting.
Calculator
The most important thing is not to forget to bring a calculator (or two!) Although the test includes an online calculator, it’s not as effective and efficient as your own. I use the TI 36X Pro. But regardless of which one you use, make sure you know how to use all its functions. Here is a list of approved calculators.
Cheat Sheet
Although you are not allowed to bring any notes or a cheat sheet into the testing room with you, there will be a time when you can go over your cheat sheet before the exam or during your 25-minute break. Download our 30-page cheat sheet for the ultimate FE exam study guide with some of the most important concepts and equations that you need to know to pass the FE exam.
FE Exam Breakdown:
The FE Exam is a computer-based test that consists of 110 multiple-choice questions. The exam is divided into two sections, which we at enGENIEer call the morning and afternoon sections. Essentially, the first half of the exam before the computer prompts you to take a break is the morning section. The portion of the FE exam after your 25 minute break is the afternoon section. Each section has its own time limit, so you’ll need to manage your time wisely.
What to Expect at The Testing Center
When you arrive at the FE exam testing center, you will check in with the proctor and present a valid form of identification. They will check your belongings (including your calculator), take your picture, then give you a locker to place everything. After they walk you to your seat they will give a booklet and a pen to take notes when needed.
When you start, the first thing you will see is the 8-minute tutorial on HOW to take the FE exam, how to answer certain questions like drag and drop, fill-in-the-blank, and so on.
This is the time to check in with yourself. Take 3 deep breaths and remind yourself: you’ve got this! You put in the hard work and dedication. You don’t have to pass, you just have to make progress, so do the best you can and give it your all. Now…after a box pops up asking if you want to take the exam, make sure to click YES – then your time will start.
If you want to know more, make sure to watch the video at the top of the page where I share a my personal experience on my FE exam day. Also, check out my YouTube channel for more FE Exam test videos, tips, and study tricks.
Responses