FE Mechanical
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Mechanical exam is one of the discipline-specific FE exams offered by NCEES. Passing the FE is generally the first step toward becoming a licensed professional engineer (P.E.). The exam is intended for recent graduates and students close to finishing an undergraduate engineering degree from an EAC/ABET-accredited program. It is a computer-based exam administered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson test centers. The FE exam includes 110 questions, and the appointment time is 6 hours, which includes a nondisclosure agreement (2 minutes), tutorial (8 minutes), exam (5 hours and 20 minutes), and a scheduled break (25 minutes). The exam fee is $225, payable directly to NCEES. The FE Mechanical exam tests core mechanical engineering topics such as statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, mathematics, probability and statistics, engineering economics, and ethics and professional practice. Preparation should focus on the NCEES FE Reference Handbook, solving practice problems under timed conditions, and reviewing weak topics. Results are typically available within 7–10 business days and are reported as pass or fail. This page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with NCEES.
What you'll study
About FE Mechanical preparation
How long is the FE Mechanical exam appointment?
The appointment time is 6 hours. It includes a 2-minute nondisclosure agreement, an 8-minute tutorial, 5 hours and 20 minutes for the exam, and a 25-minute scheduled break. The exam itself contains 110 questions.
How much does the FE Mechanical exam cost?
The FE exam fee is $225, payable directly to NCEES. This fee is separate from any state licensing board application fees. Check your MyNCEES account for the current fee when you register.
How many questions are on the FE Mechanical exam?
The FE exam includes 110 questions. The exam is computer-based and is administered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson test centers. All questions are multiple choice.
When will I get my FE Mechanical exam results?
Exam results are typically available within 7–10 business days. You will receive an email notification from NCEES with instructions to view your results in your MyNCEES account. Results are reported as pass or fail.
Can I retake the FE Mechanical exam if I fail?
Yes, but NCEES policy states examinees will be provided one attempt per testing window and no more than three attempts in a 12-month period. If you fail, you will receive a diagnostic report showing your performance for each major topic.
What topics does the FE Mechanical exam cover?
The exam covers mathematics, probability and statistics, ethics and professional practice, engineering economics, statics, dynamics, and mechanics of materials. These are the core mechanical engineering topics tested on the FE Mechanical exam.
How should I prepare for the FE Mechanical exam?
Start with the NCEES FE Reference Handbook, which is the only reference allowed during the exam. Solve practice problems under timed conditions, review weak topics, and take a full-length practice exam to build stamina for the 5-hour and 20-minute exam session.
What is a common reason candidates fail the FE Mechanical exam?
A common failure mode is poor time management during the 5-hour and 20-minute exam. Candidates who spend too long on difficult problems may leave easier questions unanswered. Practice pacing and learn to flag and return to tough questions.
Is the FE Mechanical exam difficult?
Difficulty varies by candidate. The exam covers seven core mechanical engineering topics and requires applying concepts under time pressure. Thorough preparation with the FE Reference Handbook and timed practice problems is essential for success.
What should I study first for the FE Mechanical exam?
Begin with mathematics and statics, as these form the foundation for dynamics and mechanics of materials. Then move to engineering economics, probability and statistics, and ethics. Use the FE Reference Handbook to guide your study order.