FE Civil: Calculator policy and best practices

For the FE Civil exam, NCEES permits only a short list of approved calculators: Texas Instruments TI-30X and TI-36X models, Casio fx-115 and fx-991 models, and Hewlett-Packard HP 33s and HP 35s. For most candidates, the TI-36X Pro is the best all-around choice. Graphing and CAS calculators are not allowed. Below, we cover the full policy, how to choose your calculator, and the keystrokes that save the most time.

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Civil exam is mathematically challenging and filled with dense, multi-step engineering problems. Thankfully, the days of solving entirely by hand are gone: test-takers may use an approved calculator or the on-screen option. The FE Reference Handbook is also provided and contains key formulas and references, but you should still be ready to pick the right formula and solve quickly on this fast-paced exam.

Knowing which calculator to bring is just one part of the equation: make sure you study using the exact calculator you’ll bring to the test to build mastery and speed.

About the FE Civil

The FE Civil exam is a comprehensive, computer-based assessment consisting of 110 questions, administered during a 6-hour appointment. That appointment includes a short tutorial and a scheduled break, leaving about 5 hours and 20 minutes of actual testing time. It is designed to evaluate mastery of fundamental civil engineering concepts among recent graduates and early-career professionals. Administered by NCEES, the FE Civil exam is available year-round, so candidates can schedule at a time that works for them.

Passing the FE Civil exam is the first major milestone on the path to your Professional Engineer (PE) license. A passing score earns you the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, a credential valued by employers for entry-level civil engineering positions. Before test day, make sure you’re familiar with the approved test-day policies to ensure a smooth experience.

What calculators does NCEES allow?

Only an NCEES-approved calculator is permitted during the FE Civil exam. Double-check that your calculator appears on the NCEES-approved list; otherwise, you won’t be able to use it for any calculations on test day.

NCEES-approved calculator brands and models:

• Texas Instruments: All TI-30X and TI-36X models
• Casio: All fx-115 and fx-991 models
• Hewlett-Packard: HP 33s and HP 35s only

NCEES also provides an on-screen calculator in the testing interface, but most candidates find a familiar physical calculator faster for working through problems quickly.

Which calculator should you choose?

Here’s a summary of approved calculators, with main functionalities and price points:

Texas Instruments

• TI-30Xa: roughly $10-$20
  • Basic, older-style scientific calculator with a single-line display.
  • Handles fractions, trig, logarithms, statistics, and common scientific calculations.
  • Much more limited for engineering work: no MathPrint/textbook-style display, matrix/vector tools, numerical derivatives/integrals, or equation-system solver.
  • Cheapest TI option, but generally less efficient for FE calculations.
• TI-30X IIS: roughly $15-$25
  • Two-line display, so you can see an entered expression and its result simultaneously.
  • Supports fractions, scientific notation, statistics, trig, and stored variables.
  • Easier to use than the TI-30Xa, but still lacks the advanced engineering tools of the TI-36X Pro.
• TI-30XS MultiView: roughly $20-$35
  • Major upgrade to a four-line MultiView display.
  • MathPrint displays fractions, exponents, radicals, and other expressions in textbook-style notation.
  • Better for reviewing calculations and working with complex expressions than the TI-30X IIS.
  • Still lacks some of the FE-friendly advanced functionality of the TI-36X Pro.
• TI-36X Pro: roughly $25-$40
  • TI’s most capable, commonly used non-graphing scientific calculator in this group.
  • Four-line MultiView/MathPrint display.
  • Adds numeric equation solving, polynomial solving, systems of equations, numerical derivatives and integrals, matrices, vectors, complex numbers, and unit conversions.
  • Particularly useful for FE problems because many otherwise tedious calculations can be handled directly.
  • Key difference: if choosing a TI specifically for the FE, the TI-36X Pro has substantially more engineering functionality than the TI-30X models.

Casio

• Casio fx-115ES PLUS / fx-115ES PLUS 2nd Edition: roughly $20-$30
  • Advanced scientific calculator with Natural Textbook Display.
  • Supports fractions, complex numbers, equation solving, numerical derivatives/integrals, matrices, vectors, statistics, and engineering calculations.
  • Functionally, much closer to the TI-36X Pro than to the simpler TI-30X models.
  • The 2nd Edition is largely a redesign/update rather than a dramatic increase in mathematical capability.
• Casio fx-991 series: roughly $20-$35, depending on version
  • The fx-991 line generally offers Casio’s higher-end scientific-calculator feature set.
  • Models such as the fx-991EX ClassWiz and newer fx-991CW ClassWiz use higher-resolution displays and more modern interfaces than older ES-series calculators.
  • Strong functionality for equations, matrices, vectors, complex numbers, derivatives/integrals, statistics, scientific constants, and conversions.
  • fx-991CW: newer interface and menu system; some experienced Casio users find it requires more menu navigation than the older fx-991EX.
  • One important distinction from the fx-115ES PLUS is the interface and generation, rather than simply “more functions.”
  • For FE prep, practice on the exact fx-991 version you’ll take into the exam, because the workflows differ substantially between generations.

Hewlett-Packard

• HP 33s and HP 35s: roughly $40-$70 when available
  • These are the only HP models on the NCEES-approved list for the FE exam.
  • Non-graphing scientific calculators that use RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) as well as algebraic entry, which some engineers prefer.
  • Support common scientific, statistical, and equation operations.
  • Availability can be less consistent than TI and Casio models.
  • Note: Graphing calculators such as the HP Prime and any calculator with a computer algebra system (CAS) are not permitted on the FE exam, no matter how capable they are.

A super-advanced graphing calculator is neither needed nor allowed for the FE exams. Among permitted models, a capable non-graphing scientific calculator, such as the TI-36X Pro, provides a good middle ground for most students.

Calculator keystrokes and shortcuts

The TI-36X Pro and Casio fx-115/fx-991 are among the most popular calculators used by engineering students because they offer a good balance of advanced functionality, ease of use, and price. Here are some best practices students should know:

Equation solver

• One of the biggest time-savers.
• TI-36X Pro
  • Use 2nd → num-solv for a general equation. 2nd → sys-solv handles polynomial and 2×2/3×3 linear systems.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991
  • On ES/EX-style models, use SOLVE for a general equation or EQN for simultaneous/polynomial equations. Newer CW models have an Equation app with simultaneous equations, polynomials, and Solver.
• FE exam tip: Instead of algebraically isolating an unknown, enter the equation and let the calculator solve numerically. Check the result in the original equation, especially with nonlinear equations.

Complex-number mode

• TI-36X Pro
  • MODE → select a+bi or r∠θ. Use rectangular form for addition/subtraction and polar form for multiplication/division.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991
  • Enter Complex/CMPLX mode/app. Set the result to a+bi or r∠θ as needed.
• FE exam tip: Especially useful for electrical problems. Know how to switch rectangular ↔ polar quickly rather than converting manually. Also, verify DEG/RAD before working with phase angles.

Stacked fractions

• TI-36X Pro
  • Keep the calculator in MathPrint mode. Use the fraction template to enter the numerator and denominator visually. The calculator can toggle between exact fractions and decimal forms.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991
  • Use Math/Natural Display. Casio can display results in fraction, radical, π, or decimal form; newer models provide the FORMAT menu for conversions.
• FE exam tip: For long FE equations, enter the entire numerator and denominator as a stacked fraction instead of repeatedly using parentheses and ÷. This greatly reduces order-of-operations mistakes.

Store values in variables

• TI-36X Pro
  • Enter a value → sto→ → choose x, y, z, t, a, b, c, d. Eight variables are available.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991
  • Store commonly reused values in variables such as A-F, x, y, z; the exact procedure varies by generation. Newer fx-991CW models expose them through the variable menu.
• FE exam tip: Don’t repeatedly type a long intermediate result. Store values such as E, I, L, or an intermediate coefficient and recall them later. This is faster and preserves more precision than copying a rounded number from the display.

Numerical derivatives

• TI-36X Pro
  • 2nd → d/dx → enter f(x) and the x-value. Example: derivative of 2x³ at x=2 returns 24.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991
  • Use the d/dx function and enter the function and evaluation point. Casio calculates the derivative numerically.
• FE exam tip: If the FE question only asks for a derivative at a particular point, don’t differentiate the whole expression by hand. Use the numerical derivative function.

Matrices

• TI-36X Pro
  • 2nd → matrix. Define matrices A/B/C, then calculate determinant, transpose, inverse, REF/RREF, addition, multiplication, etc.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991
  • Enter Matrix mode/app, define MatA/MatB/etc., then perform matrix operations. Capability varies by model; ES models support matrices up to 3×3, while newer models may support larger matrices.
• FE exam tip: For systems such as Ax = b, you can often calculate A⁻¹b instead of doing elimination manually. For a simple 2×2 or 3×3 system, however, the dedicated simultaneous-equation solver can be even faster.

Vectors

• TI-36X Pro
  • Use the vector menu to define vectors and perform supported vector operations. TI documents dedicated vector and matrix entry windows.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991
  • Use Vector mode/app and define VctA, VctB, etc. Newer fx-991 models support 2D and 3D vectors.
• FE exam tip: Store vectors rather than repeatedly calculating their components. Particularly useful for dot products, magnitudes, angles, and 3D vector operations.

Unit conversions

• TI-36X Pro: Enter value → 2nd → convert → select conversion. Built-in categories include English/metric, temperature, speed/length, pressure, power, and energy.
• Casio fx-115 / fx-991: Many fx-991/fx-115 models include built-in metric/unit conversions; availability and menu location depend on generation. Newer fx-991 models include conversions for length, area, volume, mass, velocity, pressure, energy, power, and temperature.
• FE exam tip: Before manually multiplying by conversion factors from the FE Reference Handbook, check whether the conversion is already built into your calculator.

For any calculator you own, it’s highly recommended (and worth it) to go through the manual, learn important solving methods, and pick up shortcuts and tricks. A basic scientific calculator will have fewer features, but will still save you way more time than using the limited, on-screen calculator provided during the test.

Pro tips:

1. Use the solver instead of rearranging long equations. Running the numerical solver can eliminate several opportunities for arithmetic errors. On the TI-36X Pro, there are separate numerical, polynomial, and linear-system solvers.

2. Use the simultaneous-equation solver before matrices. For a straightforward 2×2 or 3×3 system, entering coefficients directly into the system solver is generally quicker than creating a matrix, finding its inverse, and multiplying. For example, the TI-36X Pro’s 3×3 solver simply asks for the coefficients and returns x, y, z.

3. Store intermediate answers rather than writing rounded values down. Suppose your first calculation produces 0.003847291.... Store the full result in A, then use A in the next calculation. You avoid retyping and retain the calculator’s internal precision.

4. Learn the fraction/decimal toggle. FE multiple-choice answers are often expressed differently from the calculator output. If you get something like √2/4, quickly convert it to a decimal rather than evaluating it manually. Conversely, an unexpected decimal may become an obvious fraction when toggled. TI’s MathPrint supports exact forms and fraction/decimal conversion.

5. Check DEG vs. RAD before starting. This is especially important for trigonometry, complex numbers, and numerical derivatives. Casio specifically notes that numerical differentiation involving trig functions should use radians.

6. For complex numbers, switch formats instead of converting by hand. For electrical engineering problems, enter impedances in rectangular or polar form and have the calculator return the format the problem requires. Both the TI-36X Pro and compatible Casio models support rectangular a+bi and polar r∠θ formats.

7. Use built-in conversions selectively. The TI-36X Pro, for example, can directly convert 5 inches to 12.7 cm through its conversion menu. For unusual engineering units that aren’t included, use the FE Reference Handbook conversion factors instead.

8. Practice these shortcuts before exam day. Calculator shortcuts only save time if the menus and keystrokes are automatic. Practice with the exact calculator model you plan to bring, because even models within the same approved Casio or TI family can have very different menus and capabilities.

How your FE Reference Handbook and calculator go hand-in-hand

The FE Reference Handbook is an equally powerful tool for the FE Civil exam, holding key formulas related to Newton’s laws, force, momentum, Manning’s equation, and more. Here are small but impactful habits for your FE Civil preparation:

• Order the calculator you plan on using well in advance
• Flip through the handbook for 10-15 minutes daily, keeping track of equations and notation
• Do practice problems with the handbook open and calculator available
• Develop shortcuts and strategies
• Learn the keyword patterns NCEES uses
• Bookmark pages during studying (not in the exam)
• Create a list of “top 20 most-used formulas” and commit their locations to memory
• Take at least one full-length timed practice exam using only the digital handbook and your calculator

With consistent practice, you’ll navigate your calculator and handbook instinctively.

Other items to bring to the testing center

Have these must-haves in order at least a few weeks before the exam to avoid any issues. Getting a new government-issued ID, for example, can sometimes take almost a month, so plan accordingly:

• Appointment confirmation letter: Bring your official exam confirmation letter, available in your MyNCEES account. Presenting this document (printed or digital) streamlines check-in.
• Current government-issued ID: A physical, government-issued photo ID with your signature (such as a driver’s license or passport) is required to verify your identity on exam day. Make sure it meets the FE Civil exam requirements and exactly matches your registration details.

Note: You can’t take food or water into the actual testing room, but you can access them during your scheduled break. You’re given a locker for your personal items, which you can visit during your scheduled 25-minute break. For a six-hour appointment, it’s worth having some snacks and comfort items on hand to help you maintain focus. You may also take an unscheduled break at any point to use the restroom, drink water, or take a breather, but that time is deducted from your exam.

What to leave at home:

• Large bags: Keep your bag small; lockers are typically narrow.
• Valuables: While the centers are secure, it’s best to keep nonessential electronics or other expensive items out of sight in your vehicle.

Pack smart: Focus on the essentials, such as your registration documents, water, and anything else you need to get through a full day of testing.

Final thoughts

Your FE-approved calculator is more than just a resource: it’s a strategy. When you get comfortable with it, the exam becomes far more manageable and far less intimidating. The more you practice with it, the more natural it feels to rely on it under time pressure.

By investing a little time each day learning major keystrokes, you’ll walk into the FE Civil exam more confident, more prepared, and better equipped to succeed. Like an engineer in the field, you’re not expected to know everything off the top of your head. You’re expected to know how to find the answers you need the moment you need them.