Janice Lozano
International students can apply for the Professional Engineering (PE) exam, which is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The NCEES offers the PE exam to international candidates in several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Kingdom. In the United States, some states, such as Texas, Oregon, and Washington, have worked to facilitate PE licensure for international engineers. International candidates must meet the same requirements as domestic applicants, including passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and complying with state-specific requirements, such as professional development standards. The process for international students to obtain a PE license can be complex, and it is recommended to seek guidance from official sources, such as the NCEES website and relevant state boards.
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What You'll Learn
International students can take the PE exam outside the US
In the Middle East, for example, candidates can take the PE exam in Sharjah, Saudi Arabia, or Egypt. They will need to get their credentials evaluated to be eligible and choose a state to associate with, such as Kentucky or Ohio. Similarly, in Canada and Japan, engineers can apply for a PE license in Washington State by fulfilling the same processes as US candidates.
International students can also take the PE exam in the UK by applying for a P.E. license through the mutual recognition agreement (MRA). They must have Chartered Engineer (CEng) and IntPE statuses and complete the MRA Multistate Section Requirements.
The process for international students to take the PE exam varies depending on the country and state they are applying to. For example, Texas has different requirements for international applicants, including holding a current engineering license credential in a country with a mobility agreement with the Board or applying for a temporary engineering license under a Mutual Recognition Agreement.
It is important for international students to research the specific requirements and processes for taking the PE exam in their desired location, as each state and country may have unique standards and procedures.
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Eligibility criteria for the FE exam
The FE Exam, or Fundamentals of Engineering Exam, is the first step in becoming a licensed Professional Engineer in the United States. The FE Exam is offered year-round at Pearson VUE test centres across the United States and at some international locations. The exam is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
To register for the FE Exam, you must create an NCEES account, select an exam discipline and location, and pay the exam fee. The standard fee to register for the FE exam is $175 USD in most states, but the cost can vary depending on location and exam discipline. A $250 exam fee is payable directly to NCEES as part of the registration process in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. In addition to the exam fee, some test centres may require an application fee.
Before registering, it is important to check the specific eligibility requirements of the State Licensing Board where you will take the exam, as the requirements to take the FE Exam vary slightly by state. Most states require applicants to have completed an ABET-accredited engineering or engineering technology program or an equivalent program recognised by the state licensing board. Some states may have specific requirements related to the number of credit hours completed or the types of courses taken. In some cases, you may need to provide transcripts or degree certificates to verify your education.
International students can take the FE Exam, but the path to gaining eligibility may differ from that of domestic students. For example, in Texas, all EAC/ABET, ETAC/ABET, engineering-related, and non-engineering-related programs can lead to eligibility, but the latter two scenarios have additional verification requirements. International students should understand the actual path to gaining eligibility for the FE Exam in their specific state or jurisdiction.
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International agreements and standards
The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) has authorized Pearson VUE testing centers in various countries, allowing international students to take the FE Exam. NCEES has agreements with several foreign entities to administer an NCEES exam in those countries. The NCEES publication "Criteria for Evaluating the Administration of Exams at Non-U.S. Sites" outlines the policies, criteria, and processes related to NCEES exam administration outside the United States. NCEES is currently in discussions with Engineers PEI about offering the FE exam.
NCEES participates in the International Engineering Alliance, which includes the Washington, Sydney, and Dublin Accords. These accords recognize the substantial equivalency of educational programs for professional engineers, engineering technologists, and technicians, respectively. The International Engineering Alliance aims to establish an international standard of competence for professional engineering, with members maintaining individual registers of engineers that meet international standards and are recognized as International Professional Engineers (IntPE).
ABET, which accredits engineering programs, has signed a mutual recognition agreement with Engineers Canada and is also part of the International Engineering Alliance. This agreement facilitates the recognition of the substantial equivalence of individuals' competencies, making it easier for foreign engineers to demonstrate that their degrees are ABET-equivalent. Additionally, ABET's participation in the International Engineering Alliance contributes to the establishment of international standards for professional engineering.
In the United States, each state has its own licensing board, and the licensure process varies from state to state. Some states, like Texas, have specific requirements for international applicants, including the submission of fingerprints for a criminal history record check and proof of English language proficiency. Other states, like Nevada, have agreements with Engineers Canada, allowing Canadian P.Eng licensees to receive PE licensure without taking the FE and PE exams.
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State-specific requirements
The state-specific requirements for the PE (Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam) vary across the United States. The exam is administered by NCEES (National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying), a national organisation that regulates the testing of engineers and surveyors. While the exam is standardised, each state board determines eligibility requirements, which can vary significantly.
Some states have an Experience Record Requirement and a Residency Requirement, while others do not. The Experience Record, endorsed by your references, is part of the application process, which is regulated by the board of engineering in each state. The residency requirement may apply to taking the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam, which is a prerequisite for the PE Exam.
The cost of the PE Exam differs by state, typically costing around $375. Some states require a separate application fee. Each state also has its own ethics exam, which must be passed. While the FE Exam is the same across all states, some states may not recognise an FE Exam waiver from another state.
The education requirements also vary. Some states require a BS degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program, while others permit you to take the PE Exam with a degree in engineering technology, physics, maths, or chemistry. Some states do not require any degree, but the experience requirements are greater for these applicants.
For international students, there are additional considerations. While a US PE license is not universally recognised, some countries have agreements with US licensing boards that facilitate the licensing process for foreign engineers. To determine the path to obtaining an engineering license in a specific country, it is necessary to research the requirements of that country. International students can also refer to the NCEES publication, "Criteria for Evaluating the Administration of Exams at Non-U.S. Sites," which outlines policies, criteria, and processes for NCEES exam administration outside the United States. Additionally, NCEES offers a Credentials Evaluations service that compares international candidates' academic backgrounds to established criteria and provides this information to the relevant US licensing board.
It is imperative that candidates understand the specific requirements of their state board, as they are the ultimate authority on eligibility requirements.
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Steps to apply for the PE exam
International students can apply for the PE exam, but the process can be complex and varies depending on the state and country. Here are the general steps to apply for the PE exam:
Step 1: Check Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for the PE exam, it is essential to review the eligibility requirements, which may vary by state and country. In the United States, the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) outlines the requirements for international students. These requirements include having passing scores on the FE and PE examinations, relevant work experience, and meeting continuing professional competency (CPC) standards.
Step 2: Gain Qualifying Engineering Experience
To be eligible for the PE exam, candidates typically need to have a certain amount of qualifying engineering experience. The required amount of experience may vary by state and engineering discipline. For example, in Texas, candidates need at least seven years of qualifying experience, including two years in responsible charge of significant engineering work.
Step 3: Review State-Specific Requirements
Each state in the US has its own specific requirements for the PE exam. It is important to review the requirements for your particular state, including any necessary forms, fees, and procedures. Some states, like Oregon and Washington, have facilitated processes for international licensure, recognizing equivalent qualifications from other countries.
Step 4: Submit Application
Once you have confirmed your eligibility and gained the necessary experience, you can submit your application to take the PE exam. The application process may vary, but it typically involves completing and submitting the required forms, providing necessary documentation, and paying any associated fees. In Texas, for example, applicants must submit fingerprints for criminal history record information as part of the process.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for approval from the relevant state licensing board. This process can take a few weeks, and additional steps may be required, such as an administrative and technical review of your application. Once approved, you will be able to register and schedule your exam.
Step 6: Register and Schedule Exam
After receiving approval, candidates can register for the PE exam by creating an account with NCEES and paying the required exam fee. The exam is typically taken at a local Pearson Vue testing center, and candidates can choose from available dates and times.
It is important to note that these steps provide a general framework, and the specific process may vary depending on your location and circumstances. It is always advisable to refer to the official sources and guidelines provided by the relevant state licensing boards and NCEES for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can apply for the PE exam. However, the process may vary depending on the country and state. For example, in Texas, international students must meet the same requirements as US engineers, including providing references from licensed PEs.
The requirements for the PE exam for international students can vary depending on the state. In general, international students must have passing scores on the FE and PE examinations, at least seven years of qualifying engineering experience, and meet continuing professional competency (CPC) requirements. Some states may also require additional exams or social security numbers.
Preparing for the PE exam can be a challenging process. It is recommended that international students seek personal coaching, mentoring, and accountability to help them through the process. Additionally, understanding the path to gaining eligibility for the exam is critical.
International students can take the PE exam at international test centres located in various countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Sharjah. The exam is also offered at local Pearson Vue testing centres in the student's country.
The FE exam, or Fundamentals of Engineering Exam, is the first step towards becoming a licensed Professional Engineer. The PE exam, or Professional Engineering Exam, is the second step and is required for licensure in some states.
