Best PE Review Courses

Updated: May 23, 2023 You’re our #1 priority.
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Best PE Review Courses

So, you want to pass the NCEES Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam but don’t know where to start?

I’ve got you covered.

You probably know that PE exam prep courses help you pass the Professional Engineer exam on your first try, but with so many on the market, it’s tough to make a choice. To help you save time, I’ve researched and ranked the best PE exam prep courses and prep materials. I’ve looked at things like the number and quality of lectures, videos, and practice questions.

I’ve analyzed how long you’ll have access, the availability of realistic practice exams, and whether a live or on-demand course best suits your schedule and learning style. This comparison chart summarizes the different features of leading PE study materials, so you’re sure to find one that works best for you!

Top 6 “Best PE Review Courses” of 2024

Best PE Exam Prep Courses Comparison

School of PE (Rank: #1)

Live, on-site, and on-demand PE courses (with tutoring!)

This is Exactly Why the School of PE Review Course Is One of Our Favorites On The Market!

CRUSH RATING: 

What Everyone Needs To Know About School of PE Review

The School of PE is my number one choice for PE test prep for one main reason: it works.

Boasting impressive pass rates that are significantly higher than the national average, those who use it often pass with flying colors. For example, their PE Civil course has a 91% pass rate compared to the national average of 47%.

The School of PE offers courses in various disciplines, including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical & Computer, Structural (SE Exam), Environmental, Chemical, Architectural, Control Systems, Industrial, Petroleum, and Fire Protection engineering. In addition to the impressive pass rates, the School of PE distinguishes itself through its comprehensive and student-centric approach.

What to Expect with School of PE

It’s hard to provide exact course specifics since there are so many disciplines available. However, all of School of PE courses provide you with the following:

  1. Practice and Simulation: Extensive practice problems and mock exams that closely replicate the PE exam format.
  2. Flexible & Interactive Learning: Live online classes, on-demand lectures, and an engaging Study Hub with video lectures, practice tests, and flashcards.
  3. Student Support & Professional Development: Access to instructor guidance, regular content updates, and a focus on overall professional growth in engineering.
  4. Confidence in Quality: Backed by a money-back guarantee for eligible students, reflecting the course’s effectiveness.

By choosing the School of PE, students are not just enrolling in a course; they are investing in a comprehensive, proven system that maximizes their chances of success in the PE exam across various engineering disciplines, from Civil to Fire Protection engineering. This holistic approach to exam preparation is what makes the School of PE the top choice for aspiring professional engineers.

You will be good if you do all the lectures and remember which problems are where. The School of PE was a great resource and it has what you need to pass  – Reddit Reviewer Savak9

Many students who have gone through the School of PE program often remark that the course material and practice exams are more challenging than the actual PE exam. This rigorous approach is a strategic part of their preparation process. By facing tougher questions and scenarios during the course, students find themselves exceptionally well-prepared for the actual exam.

This level of preparation not only boosts confidence but also ensures a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, making the real exam seem more manageable in comparison. In essence, School of PE’s challenging curriculum is designed to over-prepare you, so when you sit for the actual exam, you feel more at ease and in control.

“Many of the questions in the practice portal are good, but others are much more involved than the true exam questions. After taking the test I realized that the School of PE’s questions were actually pretty good. Go through them, if there is a problem you don’t know skip. If after seeing the solution you still feel the problem is too involved for the exam then it probably is. The questions on the true test lie somewhere between the easy and medium selections on School of PE…” – Reddit Reviewer Mediocre_Buy_4957

School of PE Review Pros & Cons 2024

PROS

Diverse Course Options and Specialized Content:

I found that School of PE offers an extensive range of course options, catering to every Professional Engineer exam. Their flexible formats, including On Site, Live Online, and On Demand, rival PPI in content richness and instructor specialization. This variety ensures that learners of all styles and schedules can find a suitable and comprehensive exam preparation method.

Well-Structured and Valuable Reference Notes:

Students report that the course notes from School of PE are exceptionally well-organized and invaluable as an exam reference tool. Despite some students preferring to skim through the detailed video lectures or having mixed opinions about certain instructors, the effectiveness and quality of the course notes consistently receive high praise.

Exceptional Pass Rates with Supportive Tutoring:

First-hand accounts indicate that School of PE sets itself apart with outstanding pass rates, significantly exceeding the national average. A striking example is the January 2023 Civil FE exam, where School of PE students achieved an impressive 87% pass rate, in contrast to the national pass rate of 62%. This success rate highlights the effectiveness of their review courses and their steadfast commitment to student achievement.

Customized Learning Paths and Flexibility:

Students report that School of PE offers a variety of course options to suit different learning preferences and schedules. Whether it’s the traditional classroom setting, online learning convenience, or the flexibility of on-demand courses, there’s a tailored solution for every need.

Extensive Question Bank for Targeted Practice:

School of PE’s comprehensive question bank is a standout feature, offering an extensive array of practice questions that cover a wide range of topics relevant to the PE exam. This resource provides students with the opportunity to test their knowledge and identify areas for improvement. The questions are carefully crafted to reflect the style and complexity of the actual exam, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the types of challenges they will face.

The Bottom Line: In my experience, School of PE really stands out as a top pick for PE exam prep. They offer a broad range of courses with content that’s perfectly tailored to different learning styles. I’ve found their reference notes to be exceptionally well-organized, and their impressive pass rates speak volumes about their dedication to student success. The flexibility in their learning options is a big plus, and their extensive question bank is a great tool for boosting exam readiness. Just a heads-up, though: it’s important to pay attention to the details in their return policy.

GO TO SCHOOL OF PE REVIEW


PPI2Pass PE Review (Rank: #2)

Including access to the popular “learning hub” PE exam simulation

This is Exactly Why the PPI2Pass PE Review Course Is One of Our Favorites On The Market!

CRUSH RATING: 

PI2Pass offers a comprehensive PE Exam Prep Course that is engineered to ensure your success in earning your professional engineering license. With over 45 years of experience in exam preparation, PPI2Pass provides a range of meticulously designed courses tailored to each discipline of the PE exam. Whether you’re pursuing Civil, Mechanical, Electrical & Computer, or any other engineering field, PPI2Pass equips you with the tools and knowledge needed to pass your PE exam and advance your career.

Although it’s not my top pick, it was the number one for a lot of the reviewers I found online. But I’ll get into that more in the ‘what to expect section.’

What to Expect with PPI2Pass

Their courses include:

  • Discipline-Specific Courses: Tailored courses for various PE exams, including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical & Computer, and more.
  • Expert-Led Instruction: Courses led by experienced engineers and field experts.
  • Realistic Study Materials: Hyper-realistic materials like full-length practice exams and webbooks.
  • Customizable Learning Paths: Personalized study calendars aligned with your exam date.
  • Qbank for Practice: Extensive question bank for targeted practice.

When you enroll in a PPI2Pass course, you’re signing up for a focused and efficient preparation journey. Their structured approach ensures that every hour you spend studying is maximized, concentrating on the most crucial content for your exam. This means you’re not just learning; you’re learning smart.

One of the standout features of PPI2Pass is their comprehensive diagnostic tools. Right from the beginning, you can use these tools to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This allows for a more targeted and effective study plan, tailored specifically to your needs. It’s about studying smarter, not harder.

PPI2Pass understands that everyone has a unique learning style, which is why they offer flexible learning options. Whether you thrive in a live, interactive setting with instructors or prefer the convenience and control of on-demand lectures, PPI2Pass has you covered.

One thing I found with a lot of people who were using or had used PPI2Pass is a real confidence boost! For students enrolled in Live Online courses, this guarantee adds an extra layer of assurance. It’s not just about passing the exam; it’s about going into it feeling fully prepared and supported. With PPI2Pass, you’re not just preparing for an exam; you’re gearing up for success with a comprehensive, expert-backed, and student-centric approach.

PPI2Pass PE Review Pros & Cons 2024

What Everyone Needs To Know About PPI2Pass PE Review

PROS

Reputation and Consistent Success:

As one of the oldest PE prep companies (they’ve been around since 1975), PPI has a long history of helping millions of test takers prepare for the PE, FE, and SE exams. And when it comes to consistency, this course constantly updates their materials to match the most recent changes to these exams.

Guarantee and Refund Options:

PPI’s pass guarantee means those who fail after taking a Live Course can enroll in the 90-Day Guarantee OnDemand Course for free. Of course, you can take advantage of early bird pricing while you’re waiting for exam results. It’s risk-free: enroll in the Live Course and get a 100% refund if you find out you passed the exam. (See the PPI website for details and exceptions.)

Options for Every Examinee:

 PPI stands out for their comprehensive resources for every single PE exam— including a recent update that prepares students for the new Computer-Based Testing (CBT) format. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another company with so many options that can be mixed and matched to fit the needs of any learner.

Live Classes, Office Hours, and Targeted Practice:

One of the standout features that makes me highly recommend PPI2Pass is their dynamic approach to learning through live classes and office hours. You have the flexibility to attend lectures in person or virtually, ensuring real-time interaction and immediate feedback. This direct access to instructors during both lectures and dedicated office hours is a game-changer. It allows for instant clarification of doubts and in-depth discussion, far surpassing the delayed responses of emails or forum posts. This interactive environment, combined with targeted practice sessions, significantly enhances the learning experience and prepares you thoroughly for the PE exam.

CONS

Challenging Question Bank:

Based on first-hand accounts from users, a notable con of the PPI2Pass PE exam review is the difficulty level of its question bank. Some users have found working through the PPI2Pass Qbank to be quite challenging, even demoralizing at times. This is reflected in their experiences of finding the questions difficult and averaging around 60% on the quizzes. This aspect could be a concern for those who may feel overwhelmed by the high level of difficulty presented in the practice material.

The Bottom Line: PPI2Pass provides an effective and tailored PE exam prep experience, suited for different learning styles. The challenging question bank, while tough, is actually a plus, thoroughly prepping students for the exam. With its proven track record, diverse learning options, and a reassuring pass guarantee, PPI2Pass equips you for both the PE exam and a deeper understanding of engineering concepts.

GO TO PPI2PASS PE REVIEW


The Ultimate Civil PE Review (Rank: #3)

Streamlined review format with lots of practice questions

CRUSH RATING: 

What Everyone Needs To Know About Ultimate Civil PE Review

The Ultimate Civil PE Review Course is a comprehensive online program tailored for Civil Engineering PE exam candidates. Whether you’re a first-time taker or a repeat candidate, this course offers a complete solution for the breadth portion of the PE exam and supports depth sections. Known for its effectiveness and thorough coverage, it prepares you for this crucial step in your professional engineering career.

What to Expect with The Ultimate Civil PE Review Course

Course Details:

  • Flexible Access Duration: Choose from one month, six months, or twelve months of course access to 10 detailed modules aligned with the NCEES breadth specifications for thorough coverage.
  • Extensive Video Practice Problems: Access to over 200 videos that guide you through solving PE-type problems. It also includes two breadth exams and a choice of 5 depth exams for targeted practice.
  • Community and Support: Engage with a private community for support and bonus cheat sheets for quick revision.
  • Risk-Free Enrollment: Flexible payment options plus a 15-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind.

Enrolling in The Ultimate Civil PE Review Course means receiving personalized support throughout your study journey. The course emphasizes individual attention, ensuring you’re not just another student in the crowd. Whether it’s through email, personal instruction, or a private Facebook group, help is always at hand.

You’ll have access to a constantly growing resource library, including an extensive collection of exams, lecture modules, and over 200+ video practice problems that mirror the actual exam’s style and difficulty. This ever-expanding resource ensures that the course material stays relevant and comprehensive.

The flexibility of the course allows you to integrate your studies seamlessly into your busy schedule, making it possible to learn whenever and wherever convenient. This adaptability is crucial for busy professionals balancing work and study.

Ultimate Civil PE Review Pros & Cons 2024

PROS

Cuts out the Clutter:

This no-frills course focuses exclusively on what you need to know to pass the Civil PE breadth exam. 10 complete theory modules with video lectures and 150+ video example problems form the core of this concise yet effective course.

Bang for your Buck:

Even the Ultimate package is reasonably priced. At just $497 it covers access for an entire year: all video lectures, a growing library of video-solved problems, 2 full-length breadth practice exams, a depth exam of your choice, and 20 additional theory questions.

Plenty of Practice Questions:

Ultimate Civil PE offers two full-breadth exams and one depth exam of your choice. Past test takers found the breadth exams particularly useful. There’s simply no substitute for practicing as many exam-like questions as possible.

CONS

No Physical Classroom Options:

The Ultimate Civil PE Review Course is primarily online, lacking the option for in-person classroom learning. This could be a drawback for candidates who prefer a traditional classroom environment, a feature offered by some other providers like TestMasters.

Civil Engineering PE only:

This review course only covers the Civil Engineering PE exam. Anyone preparing for the other PE Engineering discipline exams (Chemical, Electrical, Environmental, Mechanical, etc.) should look at PPI2Pass or the School of PE and their broader selection of Professional Engineering exam prep materials.

The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Civil PE Review Course excels in providing personalized support and a wealth of resources, including over 200 video practice problems and comprehensive modules, tailored for the Civil Engineering PE exam. Its flexibility fits well with busy schedules, making it a practical choice for working professionals. However, it’s specialized solely for Civil Engineering, so those preparing for other PE disciplines might need to look elsewhere. This course is a solid pick for focused Civil PE prep, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution for all PE exams.

GO TO THE ULTIMATE CIVIL PE REVIEW


Captstone Associates PE Review (Rank: #4)

Expert-led courses with unlimited access

This is Exactly Why the Capstone Learning FE Review Course Is One of Our Favorites On The Market!

CRUSH RATING: 

Welcome to Capstone Learning Associates, a leader in comprehensive online FE CBT and PE preparation programs. At Capstone, the focus is on designing and delivering an examination preparation experience that is as intelligent and effective as the professional engineers and eLearning experts who developed it. Each curriculum is meticulously mapped to the topics and problem types encountered on the exams, ensuring a targeted and efficient study process.

What to Expect

Here are some of the course details I love about Capstone:

  • Extensive Narrated Instruction: The course offers around 30 hours of comprehensive, narrated instruction, providing in-depth coverage of the Chemical PE exam topics.
  • Abundant Sample Problems: Includes more than 250 sample problems accompanied by expert solutions to enhance understanding and problem-solving skills.
  • Dedicated PE Tutor Support: Access to PE tutor support for personalized guidance and clarification of doubts.
  • Topic-Specific Reference Material: An indexed collection of reference materials specific to various topics covered in the Chemical PE exam.
  • USCS/SI Unit Conversion Module: A dedicated module for USCS/SI unit conversions to aid in tackling problems that require unit conversions.

Capstone’s Mechanical PE Review Program is well-aligned with the actual exam topics and format, offering a curriculum that is highly relevant to the Mechanical PE exam. While the program allows learners to study at their own pace and from any location with internet access, this level of flexibility might be overwhelming for those who prefer a more structured study schedule. The program features rich instructional graphics and studio-quality audio narration, accommodating various learning styles, but this multimedia approach might not suit everyone’s preferences.

Additionally, while learners can receive direct responses to course-specific questions from certified exam instructors and engage with other engineers through a collaboration forum, the effectiveness of this interaction can vary depending on individual engagement and the responsiveness of instructors.

“The issue is there are a lot of bad EIT/FE courses that do not prepare you for the actual exam. I paid for one of those bad courses and had to pay for another one on my own. So I am spreading the word about your course so my co-workers do not make the same mistake I did. By the way, I passed the EIT and preparing to take the PE in October.”N.B., San Diego, CA

Capstone Associates PE Review Pros & Cons 2024

What Everyone Needs To Know About Capstone PE Review

PROS

Instant Conversions:

It can be annoying to switch between units of measurement while working on study materials related to professional engineering. To make this less of a hassle, Capstone includes an instant units conversion module that can be accessed to make on-the-fly conversions, cutting down on excess study time and unnecessary frustration. This is one thing that makes their PE prep courses so great.

Unlimited Access:

When you pay for a Capstone course, you’ll never have to pay for it again. This is because they put no time limits on any of their study materials and no monthly subscription fees. Take all the time you need to understand the difficult PE exam concepts without feeling the pressure on your wallet.

Expert Instruction:

All of the instructors at Capstone Learning Associates are extremely qualified to both teach and practice professional engineering. Furthermore, these instructors are available for additional help if you find yourself struggling with a particular content area.

CONS

Possibilities of Incomplete Coverage:

While the course offers a comprehensive review, there’s always a chance that it might not cover every niche topic or the latest developments in the field of Chemical Engineering to the extent some students might require. This could be a concern for those seeking an all-encompassing review that delves into less common or more advanced areas of the subject.

Limited Hands-On Opportunities:

For technical subjects like Chemical Engineering, the absence of practical, hands-on experience can be a drawback for some learners.

Guarantee:

What if you’re not satisfied with your PE review course and you want a refund? Unfortunately, Capstone has no refund policy— all sales are final. However, you can get an idea of whether or not you’ll like this course by taking advantage of their free FE sample course.

The Bottom Line: Enrolling in Capstone’s PE prep course offers significant advantages, notably the guidance of highly qualified instructors and a user-friendly course dashboard. However, the course could benefit from a more extensive range of content to provide a more comprehensive review, making it an even more attractive choice for prospective students.

GO TO CAPSTONE ASSOCIATES PE REVIEW


EET PE Exam Prep Review (Rank: #5)

Solid reference binder, excellent questions and low cost

This is Exactly Why the EET PE Review Course Is One of Our Favorites On The Market!

CRUSH RATING: 

EET PE Exam Prep Review Pros & Cons 2024

What Everyone Needs To Know About EET PE Exam Prep Review

Engineering Education & Training (EET) offers a specialized approach to preparing for the Civil PE exam with its comprehensive review courses. EET’s courses are meticulously designed to cover all NCEES required topics, tailored for the computer-based test (CBT) format.

The Breadth review sessions encompass essential areas such as Project Planning, Means and Methods, Soil Mechanics, Structural Mechanics, Hydraulics and Hydrology, Geometrics, Materials, and Site Development. EET has carefully developed these materials to ensure that candidates can solve problems easily and confidently. They also have California-specific training programs as well.

What to Expect

  • Immediate access to on-demand webinars after registration.
  • Over 45 hours of recorded lectures, quizzes, and a simulated exam, covering both breadth sessions.
  • Continuous availability of all recordings throughout the subscription period.
  • Personal guidance from an instructor who will walk you through the resources upon receiving your binder.
  • Email support from instructors for any course-related queries.

“I took EET for construction and couldn’t recommend it enough. The instructors are top tier, practice tests were plenty and right on with actual questions, and instructors very responsive to emails.” Reddit Review by WVMoutanman

EET provides two distinct course durations for the Civil PE exam preparation: a 10-week course and a 14-week course. These options cater to different learning paces and schedules, offering flexibility for candidates to choose a program that best fits their preparation needs.

The courses are designed to be comprehensive yet adaptable, accommodating the diverse requirements of aspiring professional engineers. Whether you are a first-time exam taker or looking to improve your skills for a retake, EET’s courses offer a structured and effective pathway to success in the Civil PE exam.

But unfortunately, not everyone likes the structure style of EET. So, this is something to keep in mind if you prefer a certain type of teaching.

“I hated EET’s Structural lectures. The instructor’s style of teaching did not grow on me. I must admit that part of it is due to my inherent aversion to Structural Engineering subjects. However, Dr. Nazrul and Dr. Samir handled the remainder of the material in both breadth and Transpo depth sections, and they did such a stellar job in terms of holding my attention and getting the material across…” – First-hand Reddit Reviewer

PROS

Great Ratings and High Pass Rate:

Engineering Education and Training (EET) gets great feedback from test takers for both the breadth and depth tests in various engineering disciplines. EET boasts a pass rate of 80-85% for students who attend all classes, do the homework, and complete the simulation exams. California engineers will appreciate the specific EET seismic and surveying classes, which come highly recommended.

Price:

EET’s options are very reasonably priced, especially given their incredibly knowledgeable instructors and high pass rate. For example, the Civil PE breadth course costs between $550-$650. The final price depends on the option you choose (On-Demand Webinar, Live Webinar, Live Seminar) but regardless, this is an affordable option.

CONS

Limited Courses:

This company offers great California PE exam study materials (which makes sense since they are based out of CA), but only for a select number of PE exams, including the PE Civil breadth and depth, the California PE Seismic Principles Exam, and the California Engineering Surveying Exam. If you need to take a different engineering PE exam, try a different prep company.

Uncertainty of the Future:

Some of the courses, particularly the Breadth courses, are only applicable for the PE exam before April 2024. This could limit the usefulness of these courses for candidates planning to take the exam after this date.

This company offers great California PE exam study materials (which makes sense since they are based out of CA), but only for a select number of PE exams, including the PE Civil breadth and depth, the California PE Seismic Principles Exam, and the California Engineering Surveying Exam. If you need to take a different engineering PE exam, try a different prep company.

Course Duration:

The courses are offered in 10-week and 14-week formats. While this provides some flexibility, it may not align perfectly with every candidate’s schedule or learning pace. Some may find the 10-week course too intensive, while others might prefer a longer, more spread-out course than the 14-week option.

The Bottom Line: EET’s Civil PE exam courses, available in 10-week and 14-week formats, offer tailored and effective preparation, especially for California-specific exams. While praised for high pass rates and affordability, their focus is limited to a few PE disciplines, potentially excluding those preparing for other engineering exams. The fixed course durations provide flexibility but may not suit everyone’s learning pace. Overall, EET is a strong choice for targeted PE exam prep, particularly in California, but with some limitations in course variety and duration.


TestMasters PE Review (Rank: #6)

Savvy PE instructors and a straightforward study approach

This is Exactly Why the Testmasters PE Review Course Is One of Our Favorites On The Market!

CRUSH RATING: 

The program’s flexibility is a key feature, offering Classroom Courses for those who prefer a traditional learning environment, Online Courses for self-paced study, and Custom Group Courses tailored for organizations. However, it’s worth noting that the effectiveness of each course format can vary depending on individual learning preferences and the level of interaction required by the student.

While TestMasters boasts a strong track record with a repeat-for-free guarantee if you attend every class and workshop but don’t pass, this might imply a significant time commitment that may not be feasible for all candidates. With over 35 years of experience, TestMasters combines practical, exam-focused instruction with comprehensive course content. However, the breadth of this content might be overwhelming for some, requiring careful time management and dedication to cover all the material effectively.

What to Expect: ATestMasters Review

In a detailed post on Reddit, a user shared their journey with TestMasters, emphasizing the program’s crucial role in passing both the FE and PE exams. The decision to choose TestMasters for review classes was highlighted as a key factor in their professional development.

Extended and Focused Learning The user attended TestMasters’ live online classes, which were originally scheduled over 6 weekends but were extended to 7 to provide additional focus on each depth section. This extension was praised as a smart and beneficial move, offering more comprehensive coverage of the material.

Comprehensive Course Materials TestMasters’ course materials, covering a wide array of concepts for the morning section, were particularly noted for their breadth and depth. The user found the double notes from different instructors in the binders extremely helpful, providing diverse perspectives and additional practice problems.

Additional Resources and Instructor Praise Extra live online classes offered by TestMasters before the exam, at no additional cost, were also mentioned as a significant benefit. The user attended these sessions and found them invaluable for reinforcing their understanding. Special praise was given to instructor Mark Ingram for his effective teaching approach in the Transportation depth section.

Conclusion and Recommendation The user concluded their post with deep gratitude to TestMasters and all the instructors for the excellent review classes. They highly recommended TestMasters to anyone considering a review course for the FE or PE exams, praising the program’s comprehensive approach, quality materials, and exceptional instructors.

Testmasters PE Review Pros & Cons 2024

What Everyone Needs To Know About Testmasters PE Review

PROS

Experienced Instructors and Affordable:

TestMasters PE Review comes highly recommended by those who’ve passed the PE exam. Former students in various states report that the Live Classroom, Live Online, and On-Demand courses are extremely well-taught. Complex topics are explained in a straightforward way by highly qualified instructors and practice problems are geared towards tackling those on the test quickly and accurately.

Amazing Reference Notes/Binder:

The TestMasters PE binder and reference notes get stellar reviews. Many test takers report that they used these as their main (or only!) resource on the day of the test. It’s essential to have everything you need for the test organized and at your fingertips instead of hauling in a huge stack of books on exam day.

CONS

Negative Reviews:

In my research, I’ve found that a potential concern with the TestMasters PE exam preparation program is the limited availability or nature of independent reviews. This scarcity of extensive user feedback makes it challenging for me, and likely for other candidates, to fully assess the program’s effectiveness from the experiences of past students. The lack of a broad range of reviews could be a significant factor when considering the investment of time and resources into this course.

Common Reference Books and Practice Exams Not Included:

Although many prep courses include the most popular reference manuals that you will need to study and answer practice questions, the Test Masters price does not include reference books or practice exams.

Limited Course Offerings:

While TestMasters provides a comprehensive and expertly designed PE exam preparation program, a notable consideration is that their courses may not be available in every state. This limitation could be a significant factor for candidates who prefer in-person instruction and reside outside of the states where TestMasters operates. Those candidates might need to rely on the online format or seek alternative preparation programs that offer physical classes in their region.

The Bottom Line: TestMasters PE Review offers commendable instruction with experienced instructors and useful reference materials, but it’s not without its limitations. The scarcity of independent reviews makes it challenging for me to fully assess the program’s effectiveness, and the additional cost for essential reference books and practice exams can be a drawback. Additionally, the limited availability of courses in certain states may restrict access for those preferring in-person learning. Overall, while TestMasters has strong teaching credentials, these factors present a mixed experience for potential candidates.

Comparison: PE Courses Go Head to Head

PPI2Pass vs. School of PE: While both PPI2Pass and School of PE offer comprehensive PE exam prep courses, for me, PPI2Pass takes the lead with its extensive range of resources and self-paced learning options. PPI2Pass excels in offering a more diverse array of practice materials, which is ideal for students who prefer a more autonomous study approach. School of PE, however, is a close contender with its interactive live online classes, making it a great choice for those who value real-time instructor interaction.

School of PE vs. TestMasters: School of PE stands out against TestMasters with its dynamic live online courses and a broader range of engineering disciplines covered. While TestMasters offers excellent in-person classes, School of PE’s flexibility and interactive online format cater to a wider audience, making it more accessible to students regardless of location. Additionally, School of PE’s approach to teaching and course structure is more suited for those seeking a comprehensive and engaging online learning experience.

TestMasters vs. Ultimate Civil PE Review: TestMasters, with its long-standing reputation and a variety of course formats, edges out Ultimate Civil PE Review, particularly for students looking for a more traditional classroom experience. While Ultimate Civil PE Review offers a focused and streamlined online course specifically for Civil Engineering, TestMasters provides a more diverse learning environment, catering to different learning styles and preferences, making it a preferable choice for a broader audience.

The Most Important Features: Accessibility, Comprehensiveness, Study Materials, and Student Support

When comparing dozens of PE exam prep courses, we’ve identified four main categories that are crucial for a successful study experience: accessibility, comprehensiveness, study materials, and student support.

Accessibility

The format of the PE exam varies, and it’s vital that your prep course aligns with the specific exam you’ll be taking. We ensured that all our top picks, like PPI2Pass and School of PE, offer courses that cover a broad range of states and jurisdictions. Additionally, we evaluated the availability of different course formats, such as self-paced, live online, and in-person classes, to cater to various learning preferences. Mobile app availability was also considered, though it was not a primary requirement.

Comprehensiveness

We delved into the curricula of each course and consulted with former students to gauge how well these courses prepare you for the PE exam. School of PE definitely stood out for their detailed lectures, workshops, and simulated exams, covering all exam portions required by each state.

Study Materials

Effective study materials are crucial, especially for self-paced courses. We looked for resources like flashcards, a comprehensive question bank, and practice tests. The ability to take timed practice tests is essential for familiarizing yourself with the exam’s time constraints.

For effective study materials, especially in the context of self-paced courses, I would recommend PPI2Pass. PPI2Pass is known for its extensive range of resources, including flashcards, a comprehensive question bank, and practice tests. Their materials are particularly well-suited for students who prefer to study at their own pace.

Student Support

The best courses offer extensive support both during and outside of class hours. This support can come in various forms, including email, phone, or message boards. While live courses allow for real-time interaction with instructors, we also considered the availability of additional support for self-paced courses. For this category, both Surgent and Gleim were sure standouts.

Choosing the Right PE Exam Prep Course Delivery Type for You

Your budget, schedule, and learning style will determine which type of PE exam prep course is the best fit for you. We’ve outlined the main types below, highlighting the best options for each.

Self-Paced: For those who prefer studying at their own pace, PPI2Pass offers an excellent self-paced option. Their comprehensive course materials, including a vast question bank and practice tests, allow you to tailor your study schedule to your needs.

Live Online: If you thrive in a live, interactive learning environment, School of PE’s live online courses are a great choice. They provide real-time interaction with instructors and fellow students, making the learning process more engaging and dynamic.

Live In-Person: For students who prefer learning in a traditional classroom setting, TestMasters offers live in-person courses. These courses are ideal if you benefit from face-to-face instruction and the structure of a physical classroom.

Each of these delivery types has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on your individual learning style and preferences. Consider these options carefully to ensure you select the course that will best prepare you for the PE exam.

PE Exam Prep Courses FAQs

Which PE prep course is best?

There are lots of PE exam review courses on the market. School of PE offers one of the best professional engineering review courses to date. If you’re looking for a PE course to help you pass your engineering exam, you should definitely check out their course materials.

Is 3 months enough to study for PE?

Most agree that 200-300 hours of prep time is needed to pass the PE exam tests created by the Civil Engineering Academy. How you will secure these hours depends on whether you prefer a traditional classroom environment, full-length practice exams, want an on-demand course, need live classes, and the type of study schedule you prefer.

What is the hardest PE exam to pass?

There really is no easier or harder PE exam since this is subjective. However, the numbers show that Structural Depth and Geotechnica are the most difficult NCEES PE exam offerings. Of course, a PE exam prep course can make passing easier.

How do the teaching methods vary among different PE prep courses?

Courses like School of PE and PPI2Pass offer diverse teaching methods. School of PE is known for its interactive and engaging online platform, while PPI2Pass provides a blend of in-depth video lectures and printed materials. Both offer live online options, but School of PE often gets praise for its dynamic and interactive virtual classroom environment.

What kind of support can I expect from a PE prep course?

With PPI2Pass, expect comprehensive support, including phone, forum, and email assistance. School of PE, on the other hand, offers chat, social media, and email support with a 24-hour response time, ensuring quick and efficient resolution of queries.

Are there any PE prep courses that offer specialized content for specific engineering disciplines?

Yes, both PPI2Pass and School of PE offer specialized content for various engineering disciplines. PPI2Pass is particularly noted for its extensive range of disciplines, including less common fields, while School of PE offers in-depth courses tailored to the major engineering disciplines.

How do PE prep courses keep their material updated with the latest exam formats and industry standards?

School of PE prides itself on regularly updating its course content to reflect the latest exam formats and industry standards. Similarly, PPI2Pass constantly revises its materials, ensuring alignment with the most recent changes to the exams. My other recommended courses do as well.

What are the refund policies or satisfaction guarantees offered by different PE prep courses?

PPI2Pass offers a unique pass guarantee for those who enroll in their Live Course, allowing for a free re-enrollment if you don’t pass. School of PE also has a money-back guarantee for eligible students, reflecting confidence in their course’s effectiveness.

Can I get a trial or sample of the course material before enrolling in a full PE prep course?

School of PE sometimes offers free webinars or sample materials, giving you a glimpse into their teaching style and course quality. PPI2Pass may provide sample questions or limited access to their Learning Hub, allowing prospective students to experience their course format.

Bryce Welker, CPA

Bryce Welker is a regular contributor to Forbes, Inc.com, YEC and Business Insider. After graduating from San Diego State University he went on to earn his Certified Public Accountant license and created CrushTheCPAexam.com to share his knowledge and experience to help other accountants become CPAs too. Bryce was named one of Accounting Today’s “Accountants To Watch” among other accolades.   As Seen On Forbes