FE CivilBest courses
Summary: Best FE Civil prep resources (2025 - 2026)
Advancing in the engineering profession requires candidates to obtain specialized credentials that certify competency in planning, systems and building design, and worksite safety. The FE Civil exam, also known as the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Civil, is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) and marks the first step for aspiring civil engineers seeking to achieve the Professional Engineer (PE) designation. This entry-level yet rigorous exam is specifically designed for students nearing the completion of their undergraduate engineering studies or recent graduates preparing to launch their careers.
Civil engineers play a vital role in planning, designing, and supervising both public and private infrastructure projects. Their work often centers on critical systems such as roads, bridges, sewage networks, and the structural framework of buildings. Only licensed PEs are authorized to sign and seal technical drawings and documentation that verify a project's compliance with regulatory codes and safety standards. Successfully passing the FE Civil opens the pathway for engineers to gain the required years of professional experience necessary to sit for the PE exam, a milestone that can significantly boost an individual's earning potential and job market competitiveness.
For engineering students and early-career professionals, selecting high-quality FE Civil exam preparation materials is crucial for success on this 6-hour-long test. Our comprehensive guide highlights leading FE Civil review resources and top FE exam prep options from industry favorites like School of PE, PPI2Pass, Genie Prep, and PrepFE. Each FE Civil prep program offers distinctive features that support various learning styles, study schedules, and exam goals. We provide in-depth overviews of what distinguishes each program, backed by authentic user feedback, to help you compare civil FE exam resources and select the best tools for your personal study strategy.
Please be aware that student reviews in this section have been condensed for clarity and relevance. Our evaluations focus on prominent third-party FE Civil review providers rather than NCEES' official materials. We strongly recommend supplementing your civil FE exam preparation with official NCEES FE Civil practice exams to ensure you are familiar with current test formats and question styles. Whether you're early on your path to becoming a licensed engineer or aiming to reinforce core concepts, any of the FE Civil test prep resources featured below can make a significant impact in enhancing your exam confidence and mastering important skills.
Some user reviews have been slightly edited for length and clarity.
How we evaluated these resources
Our top picks for FE Civil preparation include options that cater to every study schedule and proficiency level, ranging from self-guided textbooks to programs with a wide array of resources. We chose our selections based on:
- Cost
- Is a program's cost comparable to the industry standard, or does it offer materials at a discounted rate for young professionals?
- Variety
- Does the study manual or course include additional features, such as flashcards, live instruction, or videos?
- Coverage
- Does the material include all major sections on the exam? Is the resource best suited for quick review, or is it an all-inclusive program?
- Accessibility
- Are concepts taught in an approachable way to maximize retention? Is the program best for specific learners or does it accommodate a range of learning styles?
- Community feedback
- When students recommend this vendor, what do they like most about it? Is the vendor praised for their realistic practice tests, instructor support, or other features?
- Score boosters
- Is the program rigorous enough to help you score a 70% or above and successfully move forward on your certification path?
For each vendor, we outline the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of their study tools, highlighting both their strengths and potential limitations. Use the guide below to make an informed decision about the resources that will best support your preparation for this dense, math- and science-heavy professional exam.
Best for live instruction: School of PE
- The School of PE is a certification preparation provider specializing in engineering, architecture, and other related disciplines, boasting partnerships with engineering firms, universities, and the public sector.
- Their Live Online courses, taught by industry experts, are praised for their clear, expert instruction. Class schedules align well with NCEES' official 3-month testing windows.
- Comprehensive FE Civil exam prep program with a variety of supplemental tools
- Pass Guarantee for most packages with subscription renewal opportunities
- 94% average pass rate across courses
- Digital access on both desktop and mobile devices
- No discounted, self-study option available
- Expensive for test-takers who purchase without institutional support
- Many features, like the pass guarantee and personalized study plan, excluded from monthly subscriptions
- Limited printed materials
- FE Civil Exam Review Guide (eBook)
- FE Civil Workbook (eBook)
- Instructor-prepared course notes
- Lecture videos
- Personalized study plan
- Question Bank
- Flashcards
- Discussion forum
- Study hub
The FE Civil course from the School of PE stands out as a comprehensive FE Civil exam prep program meticulously designed to mirror the NCEES exam specifications. With the School of PE, aspiring civil engineers gain access to a curriculum that thoroughly covers all major civil engineering topics expected on the FE Civil exam. The School of PE course includes expertly crafted lecture notes, detailed handouts, and both live and recorded video lectures. Students also benefit from the digital Study Hub, which features extensive practice problem sets, an interactive question bank, flashcards, and a robust FE Civil Exam Review Guide, all tailored to enhance FE Civil exam readiness. School of PE's FE Civil curriculum encompasses essential subjects such as mathematics, statics, dynamics, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics, structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation systems, environmental engineering, and more.
Flexibility is a hallmark of the School of PE FE Civil review course. Students can choose the OnDemand format for fully self-paced learning, ideal for those balancing professional or academic commitments, or opt for the Live Online + OnDemand option to benefit from structured classes and direct instructor interaction. Live online classes typically run for three weeks, with sessions available on weekday evenings or weekends to accommodate diverse schedules. With School of PE, access to the Live Online course extends through the end of the next full month after your last class, while OnDemand access can last up to 12 months, depending on your selection. A key benefit is the Pass Guarantee included with most non-monthly subscriptions, demonstrating the School of PE's confidence in the effectiveness of their FE Civil exam prep.
For many students or early-career professionals, the School of PE's complete suite of resources transforms a daunting exam into a manageable achievement. Note, however, that without institutional access, their courses can be very expensive, with the 12-month On Demand class costing almost $2,000 when not on sale. Candidates should consider checking if their school or firm offers a discount before signing up with this prep provider.
“Did 2 months of School of PE and passed last week! Honestly, the test felt easy…School of PE is one of the more expensive alternatives, but I would definitely recommend it if you're in the same boat I was and don't mind paying for it.”
“I would say it's worth it, but it may take you longer than a month to complete all the material. I would say go with the 4-month option because if you fail the FE exam within those 4 months and have 100% completion on the course, then you get an additional 4 months for free.”
Bottom line: The School of PE offers a fairly balanced and thorough FE Civil exam prep solution, grounded in the NCEES curriculum and supported by student-focused resources. Although the School of PE is recognized for high-quality instruction and comprehensive study tools, its courses are priced at the upper end compared to other FE Civil review providers.
Best variety of online tools: PPI2Pass
- PPI2Pass, a Kaplan company, has become a trusted name in licensing preparation for engineering, architecture, interior design, project management, and other related professional domains.
- Their FE Civil prep courses range from affordable self-study learning bundles to premium live online courses for intensive preparation.
- Live classes simulate classroom environment with instructor and classmate interaction
- AI tutor provides instant support for engineering candidates
- Discounted OnDemand or Self-Study class options available (3 months to 1 year)
- One-on-one tutoring available as an add-on
- Only the Live Online Course Bundle comes with a pass guarantee
- Live Online and OnDemand courses have similar content, though OnDemand is much cheaper
- Tutorial calculator lessons and test-taking tips not included in self-study package
- Some reviewers felt textbooks and workbook lessons did not represent test content or structure well
- Online review manual web book
- Online practice problems web book
- Qbank (2700+ problems)
- Full-length practice and diagnostic exams
- PPI-trained AI tutor
- Customizable learning path
- Flashcards
- Activity library
- OnDemand lectures and presentation slides (upper-tier packages)
- Syllabus and homework assignments (upper-tier packages)
The PPI2Pass course stands out as a premier, full-service FE Civil exam prep solution, rivaling the School of PE in both depth and reputation. Developed by seasoned engineers with decades of expertise, PPI2Pass leverages proven instructional methods to deliver outstanding results for aspiring civil engineers. PPI2Pass also offers unmatched flexibility with multiple course formats to fit every learning preference. Choose from a Live Online option with structured, instructor-led classes, an OnDemand/self-paced format with unlimited access to recorded lectures, or a Self-Study/Learning Hub bundle for independent learners. Each PPI2Pass package features a comprehensive suite of study materials: an industry-leading review manual based on their trusted reference library, thousands of practice problems, customizable quizzes, full-length mock exams, diagnostic tools, flashcards, and an adaptive study planner that aligns your review with your target test date. PPI2Pass further enhances the learning experience with an AI-powered tutor trained by PPI experts, ensuring instant support throughout your FE Civil exam prep journey.
A defining advantage of PPI2Pass is the rigorous quality of its practice questions, which are specifically crafted to challenge students and reinforce advanced problem-solving skills. These multi-concept questions closely mirror the complexity of real FE Civil exam scenarios. For those who benefit from structured guidance and consistent accountability, the Live Online format, with direct instructor access, interactive Q&A sessions, and a fixed schedule, can be particularly effective. However, it's worth noting that PPI2Pass is generally priced higher than more basic prep alternatives, including some School of PE offerings, and the extensive scope of materials may be overwhelming for candidates seeking only a quick refresher.
“I used a program called PPI to pass and paid for a month of the FE civil review. Do this! It's worth the money. This program will allow you to complete quizzes at any time you want and on any subject with an endless amount of questions.”
“The textbooks and lessons weren't organized the same way the exam was. I mostly studied using the handbook, a practice exam, and other textbooks I already owned…My company also paid for it. If you aren't paying out of pocket, it might be useful.”
Bottom line: PPI2Pass offers a range of FE Civil exam prep course options tailored to students with varying time commitments and needs. Each package offers an extensive array of learning resources, strategic planning tools, and instructional content. Their robust study tools are the real standout of their programs, making their self-study bundle the best option, especially for experienced test-takers who need minimal review.
Best for community experience: Genie Prep
- Genie Prep is recognized for its self-guided FE Civil exam preparation programs, which combine rigorous resources with expert career advice for candidates with busy schedules.
- Main courses are divided into parts: the first focuses on FE principles, while the second delves into domain-specific content, including surveying and structural engineering.
- On-demand videos for flexible study planning (3 months to a year)
- Lifetime access to all course materials
- Concise, detailed question walk-throughs for full concept grasp
- Genie AI tutor available 24/7
- No textbook
- No live course options
- Course materials based on a past year's NCEES exam rather than updated for current version
- Only the Quick Review package comes with a full-length practice exam
- Some candidates recommend using Genie as a supplement, as it offers fewer features
- Hundreds of practice problems
- Virtual meet-ups with Genie Prep's CEO and main instructor
Genie Prep's FE Civil course is an on-demand, self-paced online preparation program ideal for students who prioritize flexibility. A unique feature of Genie Prep is that signing up for the course grants you lifetime access: once you pay, you can revisit the materials as often as you like. The program includes short video lectures (many under five minutes) that focus on one concept or problem at a time, making the material easier to digest.
In terms of how the content is taught, Genie splits its courses into two segments, offering a "Morning" and "Afternoon" accelerator as well as a combined bundle at a discounted rate. The "Morning" course covers general topics commonly found in discipline exams, including dynamics, mechanics of materials, and ethical principles. For the civil-specific "Afternoon" program, Genie Prep covers surveying, water resources and environmental engineering, construction engineering, and other subject-specific content areas. Genie also accommodates all study schedules: their most basic package, the FE Civil Quick Review, is geared toward students who are a few weeks away from their test date.
All courses emphasize practice: you get hundreds of FE-style practice problems (with step-by-step solutions), full-length practice exams, and support through community channels (like a Discord-based tutor and peer community), which helps reinforce concepts and build familiarity with the FE exam format. Courses also include weekly meet-ups hosted by Kenza Nelson, the lead instructor and CEO. The two major downsides of Genie's courses are that their features are limited and they advertise their practice materials as being designed for the 2024 FE Civil exam, which means their resources may not have the most up-to-date test information.
“I bought the morning acceleration and the afternoon acceleration. Both are very good. I have been a graduate for 9 years, and I intend to take the test in November. They provide [great] support for the student.”
“Purchasing the course was worth it. But you can't solely rely on it. You'll need other supporting resources, like textbooks, practice tests, etc., so it's worth it if you couple it with other resources.”
Bottom line: Genie Prep creates flexible, community-oriented study solutions tailored for candidates with diverse schedules and priorities. Well-prepared test-takers can likely perform well on the exam using Genie on its own, but their video-based courses may not be sufficient for candidates who have been out of school for a while and require more intensive preparation.
Best for content refreshers: PrepFE
- With practice exams, over 500 practice problems, detailed step-by-step explanations, flashcards, and study aids, PrepFE is more than just your average question bank.
- Questions are divided and organized by the FE Civil Exam's categories, making it a valuable and inexpensive resource for convenient review of specific topics.
- Tracks strengths and weaknesses across topics
- Review tools available on desktop and mobile apps
- Not designed as a full course, but rather a discounted review tool
- Limited access periods
- No Android app
- Interactive practice exams
- Timed and topic exams
- Updated for major exam changes
The PrepFE FE Civil prep course stands out as a leading online, practice-driven FE Civil prep option, meticulously designed to match the most up-to-date NCEES FE Civil exam specifications. Unlike traditional lecture-heavy or classroom-based FE Civil review programs, PrepFE prioritizes active learning with extensive FE Civil exam practice problems, timed full-length practice tests, and digital flashcards, directly mirroring the question styles you will face on exam day. A fully browser-based and mobile-friendly platform empowers users to study FE Civil review materials flexibly, whether from a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, making it an ideal FE Civil prep solution for busy engineering professionals, students, and those balancing full-time work or commutes.
Covering every major topic needed for FE Civil exam success, from probability and statistics all the way to construction engineering, the PrepFE FE Civil prep course delivers targeted practice that sharpens your problem-solving abilities and bolsters efficient test-taking strategies. By focusing on repeated application rather than passive reading, PrepFE enables students to build confidence with real exam content, improve weaker subject areas, and gain realistic familiarity with the overall FE Civil exam format. At only $110 for six months of access, PrepFE is the most affordable FE Civil prep course on our list. However, at this low price point, you will forgo extras such as comprehensive study manuals or video lectures, which are offered by more in-depth or premium programs.
“Prep FE is how I passed my FE exam 4 years out of school. 10/10 would recommend. Not a bad price either.”
“I review one subject and then take a 5-question test. Review another subject, then take a 10-question test with both previous subjects…and so on. I don't feel [the price] is a lot to give you a continued refreshing of the subjects. Even when it repeats, if you truly rework the problem, it'll keep it in your head.”
Bottom line: If you need a quality, budget-friendly FE Civil review tool optimized for self-directed, efficient study, the PrepFE FE Civil prep course is an outstanding choice. Remember, however, that this solution emphasizes drill-based review and is best suited for those seeking focused practice of core concepts, rather than one-on-one instruction or guided learning modules.
Why it matters
There are many FE Civil exam prep providers offering a complete suite of FE Civil prep materials and dedicated candidate support, all designed to help you perform your best on the FE Civil exam. As the essential first step in advancing your civil engineering career, the FE Civil serves as your entryway into the profession:
- Many people take the FE Civil exam shortly before or after graduating from a 4-year accredited engineering program to maximize their professional opportunities early in their careers.
- Following the FE exam, you will need to gain 4 years of progressive engineering experience under the supervision of a licensed Professional Engineer (PE).
- Afterwards, you will prepare for and pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, earning your PE credential and opening doors to advanced positions.
Passing the FE Civil is a pivotal milestone in the engineering licensure process. Success on the FE exam requires focused study, effort, and strategic preparation. Without passing the FE Civil, you cannot continue toward becoming a PE, a distinguished title that enhances both leadership prospects and salary potential. Choosing a reliable FE Civil exam prep program that provides top-tier FE Civil study resources, up-to-date civil FE exam practice tests, and ongoing candidate support is crucial to realizing your professional goals in engineering.
Wrapping up
The FE Civil exam is a vital milestone for all aspiring Professional Engineers (PEs) pursuing a career in civil engineering. As an essential first step within the certification process, the FE Civil requires careful and comprehensive preparation, as it covers an extensive scope of topics, including advanced mathematics, physical sciences, and engineering fundamentals. Although the FE Civil is considered an entry-level FE exam, its six-hour test duration and broad subject material make it crucial for candidates to dedicate substantial time to effective FE Civil exam prep. Integrating full-length FE Civil practice exams into your study plan will help you familiarize yourself with the exam structure and build the stamina needed for test day success. Choosing the best FE Civil prep course, including those with robust practice resources and adaptive FE Civil review tools, greatly enhances your chances of achieving a passing score.
When evaluating top-rated civil FE exam prep providers to support your journey toward licensure, be sure to assess key features such as thorough and up-to-date FE Civil study materials, comprehensive civil engineering content, and consistent access to high-quality FE Civil practice tests. Always confirm that your chosen FE Civil prep program aligns precisely with the latest NCEES content outline and has a proven record of helping students succeed on the FE Civil exam. Investing in a reputable FE Civil prep course or review program ensures that you are maximizing your preparation efforts and selecting an FE Civil exam solution that aligns with your learning style and professional goals, paving the way for a strong foundation and a successful result on the FE Civil.