The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination is the initial step toward professional engineering licensure. This computer-based exam is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and requires candidates to demonstrate technical competence. Strict regulations govern the testing environment to maintain fairness. Calculators are limited to specific models approved by the NCEES. Understanding these regulations is important, as using an unapproved device can lead to dismissal from the testing center. This article clarifies the exact models permitted and details the procedural rules for their use.
NCEES Approved Calculator Models
The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) strictly limits the models of scientific calculators allowed into the examination room. This policy ensures that no candidate gains an unfair advantage from advanced functions like data storage or complex programming. The approved list is reviewed annually, but it consistently features models from three specific manufacturers: Casio, Hewlett Packard, and Texas Instruments.
Casio
The permitted models from Casio are all variations that contain either “fx-115” or “fx-991” in their model names. This includes popular versions such as the Casio fx-115ES Plus or the Casio fx-991EX. No other Casio series or models are permitted for use during the exam.
Hewlett Packard
For Hewlett Packard, the selection is restrictive, permitting only two specific models: the HP 33s and the HP 35s. These two scientific calculators are the sole Hewlett Packard devices that meet the NCEES criteria.
Texas Instruments
The Texas Instruments allowance is broader within two specific series, including any model that contains “TI-30X” or “TI-36X” within its name. This includes models like the TI-30X IIS and the TI-36X Pro. Graphing calculators like the TI-84 or TI-Nspire are prohibited because their data storage and programming capabilities violate the NCEES policy.
Rules for Calculator Use During the Exam
Once a candidate arrives at the testing center, several logistical rules govern the use of the approved calculator models. Candidates are permitted to bring more than one approved calculator into the testing room, which provides a safeguard in case one device malfunctions during the exam. Any spare calculator must be one of the exact models specified on the official NCEES list.
Test administrators regulate the devices’ memory and data. Candidates may be asked to demonstrate that the memory on their calculator has been cleared before the exam begins to ensure no user-stored notes or formulas are present. Sharing a calculator with another examinee is strictly prohibited once the test session has commenced.
Calculators must be self-contained and battery-operated. Candidates cannot bring documentation, user manuals, or external power cords or charging devices into the exam room. Using a device not on the approved list, or one that violates the procedural rules, can result in immediate dismissal from the exam and voiding of the test results. A digital, on-screen calculator, modeled after the TI-30X IIS, is available within the computer-based exam interface, but it is recommended that candidates bring their own familiar, approved handheld model for efficiency.