Beatrice Lang
Passing the electrical PE exam is a challenging but rewarding endeavour. With the right preparation and mindset, you can increase your chances of success. The exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in electrical engineering, covering various topics such as power, electronics, controls, and communications. It is offered in different formats, including pencil-and-paper and computer-based testing, with pass rates updated regularly. To pass, a well-structured study plan is essential, focusing on understanding the exam format, practicing with sample questions, and managing your emotions during preparation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Exam Format | Pencil-and-paper (P&P) and computer-based testing (CBT) |
| Exam Frequency | Once or twice per year for P&P; year-round for CBT |
| Exam Content | Multiple-choice questions and alternative item types (AITs) |
| Number of Questions | 80-85 |
| Exam Duration | 9-9.5 hours |
| Pass/Fail | Results are reported as pass or fail |
| Results Availability | Typically within 7-10 business days |
| Result Breakdown | Diagnostic report provided for failed exams |
| Exam Registration | Registration is done through MyNCEES account |
| Exam Preparation | Online resources, courses, books, and practice exams |
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What You'll Learn
Exam format: pencil-and-paper or computer-based
The PE Electrical and Computer Engineering exam is offered in two formats: pencil-and-paper (P&P) and computer-based testing (CBT). The pencil-and-paper format is available once or twice per year, depending on the examinee population, while the computer-based format is administered year-round.
For the pencil-and-paper format, exam pass rates are updated after the results are released. Typically, results for the April exams are released in May, and results for the October exams are released in December. In contrast, the computer-based format offers more flexibility in terms of exam dates. The PE Electrical and Computer: Electronics, Controls, and Communications exam, as well as the PE Electrical and Computer: Computer Engineering exam, are computer-based and administered once a year. Examinees can reserve their seats up to a year in advance at a Pearson VUE test center. These exams consist of 85 questions and have an appointment time of 9.5 hours.
The PE Electrical and Computer: Power exam is another example of a computer-based exam. This exam is administered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers, and appointments are available throughout the year. The exam consists of 80 questions, and the appointment time is 9 hours.
It's important to note that the format of the exam may impact the exam experience and preparation strategies. For example, some individuals may prefer the familiarity of a pencil-and-paper format, while others may find the convenience and efficiency of computer-based testing more appealing. Additionally, the availability of exam dates and the timing of results release may be considerations when choosing between the two formats.
When preparing for the PE Electrical exam, it is essential to be mindful of your emotions and maintain a positive mindset. The perception of the exam's difficulty can be influenced by individual experiences and stories shared by others. Staying focused and managing expectations can help in approaching the exam with confidence.
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Exam topics: transformers, reactors, capacitors, etc
The Power Electrical PE exam covers various topics in electromagnetic devices, including transformers, reactors, and capacitors. This section accounts for approximately six questions on the exam.
Transformers are the biggest topic in this section due to the many types of transformers and the ease of constructing exam questions on this topic. Transformers are electromagnetic devices that use electromagnetic induction to convert one voltage to another. They are essential for voltage conversion and power transmission in electrical systems, enabling the efficient and reliable transfer of electrical energy between different voltage levels. Transformers consist of two or more coils, known as windings, wound around a common magnetic core. When an alternating current (AC) passes through the primary winding, it generates a varying magnetic field around the core, which induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the secondary winding through electromagnetic induction.
Different transformer arrangements, such as step-up, step-down, and center-tapped transformers, are also important to understand, as questions on the exam may require you to determine how line and phase voltages/currents are related for these various arrangements. Additionally, taps, which are terminals connected to the windings of the transformer, can be used to compensate for voltage variances and deliver the appropriate voltage on the secondary side.
Reactors are another crucial topic in this section. They are primarily used to control and regulate voltage in power systems, improve the power factor, and limit or control the circuit's current flow. Reactors are inductors, which physically look like a conductor wrapped in a coil. As current travels through the coil, a magnetic field forms, and the inductance value is determined by the number of turns in the conductor. Reactors can be used to create filter circuits within the power grid to target specific harmonic frequencies and ensure better power quality. They also play a vital role in maintaining the stability, efficiency, and safety of electrical power systems.
While capacitors are not explicitly mentioned in the sources provided, they are related to reactors. During periods of low demand, transmission lines can act like capacitors and generate reactive power, increasing voltage. Shunt reactors are then used to absorb this excess reactive power, helping to stabilize the voltage level.
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Exam registration: reserve your seat in advance
Exam registration is an important step in the process of taking the PE Electrical and Computer exam. This exam is administered by NCEES and offered in two formats: pencil-and-paper and computer-based. The computer-based format is further divided into two types: the single-day testing event and the year-round testing option.
For the single-day testing event, examinees may reserve their seats up to a year in advance at a Pearson VUE test center. To do this, they must first be registered with NCEES and approved by their board. The registration process involves logging into your MyNCEES account and following the onscreen instructions. During registration, you will select your exam location and choose from a list of available exam dates. If you are unsatisfied with the available dates, you can browse other NCEES-approved test centers.
It is important to note that some licensing boards may require you to file a separate application and pay an additional application fee to qualify for a seat for the exam. Therefore, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with your state licensing board's unique registration procedures before registering. Additionally, there may be specific requirements and fees associated with your chosen exam format, so be sure to review the relevant information on the NCEES website.
The exam fee for the PE Electrical and Computer exam is typically $400, payable directly to NCEES. However, the fee amount may vary depending on your location. For example, in Alberta, the exam fee is $425, while in some other cases, it is mentioned as $250.
Remember to register and reserve your seat as early as possible, especially for the single-day testing event, to ensure your preferred exam date and location.
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Study methods: focus on learning how to pass, not just theory
Studying for the Electrical PE exam can be a daunting task, but with the right mindset and strategy, you can increase your chances of success. Here are some study methods that can help you focus on learning how to pass, rather than just theory:
Understand the Exam Format and Topics Covered
Before you begin studying, take the time to understand the format of the Electrical PE exam. Knowing the types of questions asked, the allocation of marks, and the topics covered will help you structure your preparation. The Electrical PE exam covers various topics, including electrical power devices, transmission and distribution, protection, measurement and instrumentation, applications, and codes and standards. Knowing these topics beforehand will help you tailor your studies effectively.
Set a Realistic Study Schedule
Create a study plan that works for you. Consider your daily commitments and obligations, and be realistic about the time you can dedicate to preparation. A consistent and disciplined approach is more effective than sporadic cramming. Break down the exam topics into manageable portions and allocate specific time slots for each. This helps prevent overwhelm and ensures you cover all the necessary material.
Utilize Practice Problems and Past Exam Papers
Solve as many practice problems and past exam papers as possible. This helps you familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked and improves your time management skills for the actual exam. Practice problems also help identify your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your studies on areas that need improvement.
Seek Reliable Study Resources
There is no shortage of study resources available for the Electrical PE exam, but it's essential to be discerning. While some paid courses, books, and videos can be beneficial, beware of scare tactics and expensive marketing gimmicks. Look for resources that offer technical study guides, practice exams, and proven study methods. Online platforms like Engineering Pro Guides provide directed learning and free resources to help you stay focused and prepared.
Maintain a Positive Mindset
Believing in yourself and maintaining a positive attitude is crucial. The Electrical PE exam can be challenging, but don't let fear or negative experiences from previous attempts hold you back. Stay motivated and remember that adequate preparation will help you feel more confident and ready to tackle the exam.
Remember, the key to passing the Electrical PE exam is not just about understanding the theory but also about developing effective study strategies, practicing consistently, and seeking reliable resources to improve your chances of success.
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Exam results: available 7-10 business days after the exam
The PE Electrical and Computer Exam is offered in pencil-and-paper format and is available once or twice per year. The pass rates are updated in May for the April exams and in December for the October exams. The PE Electrical and Computer: Power exam is computer-based and administered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers.
The results for the PE Electrical and Computer Exam are typically available within 7–10 business days. NCEES will send an email notification with instructions to view your exam results in your MyNCEES account. All results are reported as pass or fail. If you pass the exam, you will not receive a diagnostic report. However, if you fail the exam, you will receive a diagnostic report showing your performance for each of the major topics covered.
The PE Electrical and Computer: Power exam is an example of a computer-based test, and the results for such exams are released much more swiftly than those based on the pencil-and-paper format. The computer assists the NCEES in summing up scores, taking averages, and analyzing how students performed on the exam. This enables the NCEES to evaluate the grades of its large candidate pool simply and efficiently.
Once you receive your results, you will also get directions from NCEES via email on how to check your results in your MyNCEES account. Your results will also include information on the standards set forth by your licensing board regarding your next steps in light of your PE exam scoring.
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Frequently asked questions
PE stands for Professional Engineering. The PE exam is offered in pencil-and-paper format or as a computer-based test.
You can register for the exam by logging in to your MyNCEES account and following the on-screen instructions.
There are many resources available online, including technical study guides, practice exams, and courses. It is important to be wary of scare tactics and overwhelming marketing material.
You will receive a diagnostic report showing your performance for each of the major topics covered in the exam. You can then register for another attempt through your MyNCEES account.
The exam covers topics such as electric power devices, transmission and distribution, protection, measurement and instrumentation, applications, and codes and standards.
