Are you curious about your chances of passing the FE exam? The statistics below represent a specific demographic of test-takers to provide a baseline for "first-attempt" success.
The following data applies to examinees who:
Took the FE exam for the first time.
Attended an EAC/ABET-accredited engineering program.
Took the exam within 12 months of graduation.
Performance by Discipline
| Exam Discipline | Testing Volume | Pass Rate | Format | Availability |
| FE Chemical | 774 | 73% | CBT | Year-round |
| FE Civil | 6,690 | 67% | CBT | Year-round |
| FE Electrical & Computer | 1,385 | 71% | CBT | Year-round |
| FE Environmental | 909 | 73% | CBT | Year-round |
| FE Industrial & Systems | 258 | 64% | CBT | Year-round |
| FE Mechanical | 4,286 | 72% | CBT | Year-round |
| FE Other Disciplines | 1,173 | 62% | CBT | Year-round |
Data Source: NCEES Annual Report. Statistics are updated annually to reflect the most recent July–June testing cycle.
Key Takeaways
Computer-Based Testing (CBT): All FE exams are administered via computer at approved Pearson VUE test centers.
Year-Round Availability: You can schedule your exam at any time; however, you are limited to taking the exam only once per testing window and no more than three times in a 12-month period.
Preparation is Critical: While pass rates hover between 60% and 75% for first-time takers from accredited programs, these rates drop significantly for repeat takers or those further out from graduation.