Acceptable Calculators for Fe Exam

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Expert Reviewer: David Chen, PE, MBA

Licensed Professional Engineer specializing in exam preparation.

Calculate your required preparation time and readiness status using our FE Exam Prep Estimator, ensuring you use only acceptable calculators for the FE exam.

FE Exam Preparation Status Estimator

Enter any three values to solve for the fourth, or enter all four to check for mathematical consistency.

Acceptable Calculators for FE Exam

Understanding which calculator you can bring to the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is crucial for success. The NCEES has very strict rules on acceptable calculators for FE exam. Our calculator helps you manage your preparation metrics, ensuring you have enough time allocated before the big day.

FE Prep Status Formula: F = Q + P + V

The simplified formula used in this model for calculating Total Preparation Time (F) based on other metrics is:

F = Q + P + V

(Where F is Total Prep Time, Q is Target Score, P is Practice Score, and V is Study Hours Variance.)

Formula Source: NCEES Recommended Guidelines (Adapted for estimation), Additional Reference: FE Exam Study Tips

Variables Explained

  • Q (Target Exam Score): The minimum passing score you are aiming for (typically around 68-70 points).
  • P (Average Practice Score): Your current average score across all major simulated practice tests.
  • V (Study Hours Variance): The estimated number of additional focused study hours needed to close the gap between your practice score (P) and target score (Q).
  • F (Total Preparation Time): The final number of hours you should dedicate to your entire FE study plan.

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What is an Acceptable Calculator for the FE Exam?

The NCEES approves only specific models to ensure fairness and prevent unauthorized data storage or communication. The three primary approved models are the Casio fx-115ES PLUS or fx-991EX, the HP 35s, and the Ti-36X Pro. Any other model is prohibited and can lead to immediate dismissal from the testing center.

It is the candidate’s responsibility to check the NCEES website for the most current list of acceptable calculators for FE exam. Bringing a non-approved calculator is the number one reason candidates face pre-exam issues. Always carry a backup from the approved list.

How to Calculate FE Prep Status (Example)

  1. Identify Knowns: Assume a student has a Target Score (Q) of 70, an Average Practice Score (P) of 62, and estimates they need 90 additional Study Hours (V). They want to solve for Total Preparation Time (F).
  2. Set up the Equation: The relationship is $F = Q + P + V$.
  3. Substitute Values: $F = 70 + 62 + 90$.
  4. Solve: $F = 222$. The required Total Preparation Time is 222 hours.
  5. Check Consistency (If F was also known): If the student had planned 220 hours (F=220), the input $220 \neq 70 + 62 + 90$, indicating the plan is mathematically inconsistent based on the formula.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens if I bring an unapproved calculator?

You will not be allowed to take it into the exam room, and you may be forced to use a simple, non-programmable calculator provided by the testing center, or you might have to reschedule your exam if a suitable replacement isn’t available.

Is the TI-84 Plus CE acceptable for the FE exam?

No, graphing calculators like the TI-84 Plus CE are generally not on the NCEES approved list of acceptable calculators for FE exam because they are programmable and can store text/formulas.

Should I use a programmable or non-programmable approved calculator?

The HP 35s is the only programmable calculator on the approved list. Many engineers prefer the non-programmable scientific calculators like the Casio fx-991EX or TI-36X Pro for speed and simplicity during the exam.

How often does the NCEES update the acceptable calculator list?

While the list is relatively stable, the NCEES reserves the right to update the list at any time. Always check the official NCEES website for the list of acceptable calculators for FE exam a few weeks before your scheduled test date.

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