Can I Print the Practice Exams?
Yes, although the questions and solutions are on-line, all content can be downloaded and printed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recommended system requirements?
In order to watch videos on our site, the following system requirements are recommended for the best viewing experience:
What speed should my internet connection be?
Since the videos we offer on the site set up as a progressive download, there is no internet connection speed requirement to view the videos. A slower connection will simply result in a longer wait until the stream begins to play. That said, we do recommend a broadband connection with 500+ Kbps. To check your [...]
Do you offer certificates once the course has been completed?
We have a clever algorithm that inspects the time your account will have been shown as active.
This content seems outdated
We are constantly updating the video and pdf materials on PE Review. It is very possible that you’re looking at an outdated version of the video and problem, due to your computer’s cache. This is your computer’s temporary storage area where frequently accessed data is stored for quick access. Your computer has effectively made a copy [...]
How can my employer pay for the course
There are a couple of ways that an employer can pay for any of the PE Review courses. The easiest would be to have your employer simply sign up as the employee and pay with a credit card as any other subscriber would. If an employer would rather be invoiced, then here are the steps [...]
Which calculator do you recommend and why?
Go to the pereview.net home page and click on the tab “STORE” on the top of the page. It will take you to a set of materials useful for the PE exam. Click on “Permissible Calculators” (on the left under ‘powered by Amazon’). You’ll see all of the permissible calculators. We like the HP calculators the [...]
Is my subscription transferable?
No – the subscription is in your name and is for you alone.
What grade does it typically take to pass the exam?
An unofficial estimate is 70%. Go to the link to NCEES below where they explain the rationale.
How will I access the Practice Exams?
These are delivered in PDF format. You download the files, print them, and then take the exams under “exam conditions”. The detailed solutions will enable you to score your own efforts. The solutions will help you fix your mistakes. The timing is the key because it will prepare you for the unusual 4 hour format.
Why are the practice exams 2 hours when the real ones are 4?
You can try the 2-hour exams under timed conditions; or you can double up two exams to simulate the ‘real thing’. You can even set up a full day’s worth (4hours + 4hours) to get the complete experience!
Since it is an open-book exam, what can I take into the exam?
Most states permit three-ring binders with notes. Some do not allow collections of solved problems. Some allow only textbooks and standard reference handbooks. Contact your state board for details. NCEES has an approved list of calculators and candidates must use a calculator from the approved list. Their current list can be found at: http://www.ncees.org/news/index.php?release_id=44
Is the PE Exam the same in all states?
All states take the same exam prepared by the NCEES. However, certain states individually have additional exam rules about what you can take into the exam, and what you can’t. Contact your state board for details.
What is the format of the (actual) PE exam?
There are two four-hour examinations, each with 40 multiple-choice questions. The morning examination is general covering all Civil Engineering disciplines.
If I participate in the video stream demos, do I really have to try the practice exams?
Yes. The PE Exam has an unusual format (two 4-hour exams in one day!) and timing will be critical. Taking the 2-hour practice exams will sharpen your exam technique. There are ten 2-hour practice exams with 20 questions in each, with new exams added recently. They cover all five disciplines.
Do I need a WebCam and a microphone?
No. All you need is audio and video so that you can hear and see the instruction video.
Do I need to install special software to be able to video stream?
No. We host the service. All you need is a computer with an Internet connection. If your Operating System is more than 3 years old, you’ll probably have to update some key components such as “Windows Media Player”. The video demos are delivered in “High Definition Flash”. It’s just like “You-Tube”, only better.
If I subscribe to the Silver Membership package, can I upgrade later?
Yes. You can upgrade any time.
Do you guarantee that I’ll pass?
No. But we believe that if you apply yourself to the program, your chances of passing are good. Your subscription runs for a year so you’ll be able to use it for a second try at the exam, if needed.
Do I need to buy any books to use your service?
No. All materials you need are available on the site.
I have a dial-up connection. Will it work?
Yes. Dial-up will work, but the video can be a little “lumpy” at times. Other subscribers have used 56k modems and have watched the videos. Remember also, you can work from any computer with an internet connection. Some people put an hour in after work.
Does this come with a study book, CD, DVD, or notes?
The material is all online. You download the problems and watch the videos which are streamed.
How long will I have to wait to access the site after I subscribe?
About 15 seconds.
How many times can I go back to a video streamed problem?
As many times as you want.
Do you mail me the study materials?
No. All materials are downloaded from the web site.
How long does my subscription last?
We used to offer subscriptions for 365 days. But now, you get the subscription to cover at least two exam cycles. So, if today is June 1st, and you subscribe today, it will run until the October exam date, of the next year.
My employer will refund my subscription. Can you supply doccumentation?
Yes. When we identify that you have downloaded the problems and activated the video demonstrations, you can download your own certificate of completion, through the site.
How many of these demo problems are there on the site?
26 modules, each with 8 problems. They’re arranged in disciplines and by sub-topic. See PE Course Content.
What is “videostreaming” ?
Video delivered to your pc or mac – just like “You Tube”.
What’s this “work-along” idea
You get a PDF with a partial solution for each demo problem – the video is a demonstration of how to do the problem – you ‘work-along’ with the instructor filling in the essential calculations, as he does. This way, the material sticks!
Did you upgrade the site for the new 2008 exam format?
Yes – we developed new Construction Modules and other changes.
How can you assure my employer of my using the site?
We have a cool algorithm that monitors subscription, activity, video runs, and practice exam access. We issue certificates when we can identify a minimum measure of subscriber activity and that you have secured an overall score average of 70% in the Practice Exams. You get two attempts, so you can always go back and fix [...]
How long does it take to get through the material?
Some of you will be selective covering those areas that are your weaker points. But if you were to cover the entire course, it would take 30 to 40 hours of study. Take a look at the right side-bar on the home page where you’ll find a handy estimator. It takes the number of days [...]
My employer will pay for my subscription. How can I proceed?
Some employers have credit cards and can subscribe you directly, online. Some employers prefer to reimburse after you sign on, when you provide them your receipt. Some prefer to invoice in the traditional way; have them e-mail us at EmployerServices@pereview.net