Can You Use Scientific Calculators on the FE Exam?
FE Exam Calculator Approval Checker
Select your calculator model to check if it’s approved by NCEES for the FE exam.
What is the FE Exam Calculator Policy?
The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), has a very strict policy regarding calculators. To ensure fairness and prevent any possibility of cheating, NCEES limits examinees to a specific list of approved scientific calculators. Using a non-approved device, such as a graphing calculator or a smartphone, will result in your dismissal from the exam. Therefore, understanding ‘can you use scientifical calculators on the fe’ is a critical part of your preparation.
The policy explicitly prohibits any calculators with capabilities beyond the approved list, especially those with QWERTY keyboards, wireless communication, or large storage capacities. The goal is to create a standardized testing environment where every candidate has access to the same computational tools.
Official NCEES-Approved Calculator Models
The NCEES calculator policy is straightforward and revolves around specific model series from three manufacturers: Casio, Texas Instruments, and Hewlett Packard. Any calculator used during the exam must belong to one of these series.
| Manufacturer | Approved Model Series | Key Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Casio | fx-115 and fx-991 | The model name must contain “fx-115” or “fx-991”. |
| Texas Instruments | TI-30X and TI-36X | The model name must contain “TI-30X” or “TI-36X”. |
| Hewlett Packard | HP 33s and HP 35s | Only these two specific models are allowed. |
It’s crucial to double-check your calculator’s exact model name before exam day. For a complete overview, consider reviewing an FE Exam Study Guide which often details these requirements.
How to Use This FE Calculator Approval Checker
This tool simplifies the process of verifying your calculator. Follow these simple steps:
- Find your calculator model: Look at the face or back of your calculator to find its exact model name (e.g., “TI-36X Pro”).
- Select the model: Choose the corresponding model from the dropdown list above. If your specific model isn’t listed but falls into a general series (like fx-115), select the generic option.
- Check the status: Click the “Check Approval Status” button.
- Review the result: The tool will immediately tell you if your calculator is approved for the FE exam based on the official NCEES policy.
Key Factors That Affect Your Choice of FE Calculator
While all approved calculators are computationally sufficient for the exam, certain factors can influence your performance and efficiency.
- Familiarity: The best calculator is the one you know how to use. Practice with your chosen calculator extensively before the exam. Don’t switch models at the last minute.
- Display: Some models, like the TI-36X Pro, have a multi-line display that shows both the input and the result, which can help catch entry errors.
- Power Source: Consider a solar-powered calculator with a battery backup (like many Casio models) to avoid any risk of it dying mid-exam.
- Key Layout: The layout and responsiveness of the keys can affect your speed. Ensure you are comfortable with the button placement for common functions.
- Built-in Functions: While all approved calculators have the necessary functions, some might have more intuitive ways to handle complex numbers, vectors, or matrix operations. Explore these before deciding. For more information, read about the best calculators for engineers.
- Resetting the device: Be aware of how to reset your calculator. Exam proctors may ask you to do this to clear any stored programs or data.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can’t I use my advanced graphing calculator like a TI-89?
Graphing calculators are banned because they have extensive storage for notes, formulas, and programs, which could provide an unfair advantage. NCEES rules are designed to prevent this.
What is the most popular calculator for the FE exam?
The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro is widely considered the most popular and recommended choice due to its user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities that are still within NCEES rules.
Can I bring two approved calculators into the exam?
Policies can vary by testing center, but typically you are only allowed one calculator. Bringing a backup is not permitted. Some computer-based tests also provide a digital on-screen calculator.
What if my calculator model is not on the list?
If your calculator’s model name does not match one of the approved series (e.g., Casio fx-115/fx-991, TI-30X/TI-36X, HP 33s/35s), it is not allowed. You must purchase an approved model for the exam.
Does the “Plus” or “Pro” in the name matter?
Yes, but as long as it’s part of an approved series. For example, the Casio fx-115ES Plus and the TI-36X Pro are both approved because they fall under the “fx-115” and “TI-36X” umbrellas, respectively.
Is there an on-screen calculator during the exam?
For computer-based testing (CBT), NCEES provides a digital on-screen version of the TI-30X IIS as a backup. However, you should not rely on this and bring your own approved physical calculator.
Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?
Yes, proctors will likely inspect your calculator and may ask you to demonstrate that its memory has been cleared. Be familiar with the reset procedure for your specific model.
Is it worth learning about NCEES rules for the PE exam too?
Absolutely. The calculator policy for the Professional Engineering (PE) exam is identical. Understanding these rules now will help you prepare for future PE exam requirements.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
Preparing for your engineering licensure involves more than just passing the FE exam. Explore these resources to help you on your journey:
- FE Exam Study Guide: A comprehensive guide covering all topics for your specific engineering discipline.
- PE Exam Requirements: Learn about the experience and examination requirements for becoming a licensed Professional Engineer.
- Best Calculators for Engineers: A detailed review of calculators for both academic and professional use.
- FE Civil Practice Exam: Test your knowledge with a full-length practice exam.
- FE Mechanical Review Course: An in-depth course to prepare you for the mechanical engineering FE exam.
- Engineering Ethics Seminar: Understand the ethical responsibilities of a professional engineer.