The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam has specific restrictions regarding permissible calculating devices. Approved calculators are generally categorized as either the NCEES-approved FE Supplied-Reference Handbook calculator or specific models of Casio and Hewlett-Packard calculators. These approved devices are typically non-programmable, lacking functionalities like symbolic manipulation, extensive memory, or communication capabilities. Exam takers found with unapproved calculators may be dismissed and their scores invalidated.
Standardizing permissible devices ensures a level playing field for all examinees. This process upholds exam integrity by preventing unfair advantages derived from advanced calculator functions. It also helps maintain a consistent level of difficulty across all administrations of the exam. Adhering to these regulations is crucial for ensuring a candidate’s results are considered valid. historically, the permitted calculator list has evolved with technological advancements, reflecting the NCEES’s ongoing commitment to fair and relevant testing practices.