Getting ready to tackle the Professional Engineer exam? It’s a huge step in your career, and choosing the right PE exam prep course can really make or break your study journey. Trust me, I know the feeling – it’s a big test, and you want to be as prepared as possible.
With only about 50-60% of test-takers passing the PE exam on their first try, figuring out which PE exam course is the perfect fit for your learning style and specific needs is extremely important.
I’ve dug deep, researched, and put together a comprehensive look at the best PE exam prep courses out there. We’re talking in-depth research, not just a quick skim. So, whether you’re aiming for the PE civil exam, the chemical PE exam, or any other engineering discipline, I’ve got you covered.
PE Review Course Comparison
| Provider |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $1,790 – $2,490 | $545 – $2,595+ | $797 – $1,397 | $595 – $695 | $950 – $1,250 |
| Discounts | Save $300 | Save 15% | No Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts |
| Format | Live Online, On-Demand, Hybrid | Live Online, On-Demand, Print | On-Demand, Practice Exams | On-Demand, Live Webinar | Live Webinar, On-Demand |
| Number of Practice Questions/Exams | 1,000+ | 1,000+ | 800+ | 1,000+ | 1,000+ |
| Guarantees |  | |  | N/A | N/A |
| Refund Policy | | | | | |
| Support | Email, Phone, Instructor support | Email, Phone, Online forum, Instructor support | Email, Facebook Group, Direct message | Email, Phone | Email, Phone, Instructor office hours |
| Best For | Comprehensive coverage, various formats | Depth of content, established reputation, print materials | Civil PE exam focus, strong community | Civil PE exam specific, authoritative content | Highly specialized depth, focused content |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Top 5 Best PE Prep Courses
- Best Overall: School of PE
- Best for In-Depth Content & Breadth: PPI
- Best for Civil PE Specifics: Civil Engineering Academy
- Best for Authoritative Civil PE Content: ASCE
- Best for Specialized Depth: EET
1. School of PE
School of PE is widely recognized as a top-tier PE exam review provider, and for good reason. They offer really comprehensive course materials covering a wide range of engineering disciplines, from the PE civil exam to electrical and mechanical.
When I tested their on-demand format, I appreciated that I could pause, rewind, and rewatch tricky concepts, especially for structural analysis problems. The Study Hub feature also helped me stay organized during my 6-week prep schedule. Their structure is designed to guide you through all the necessary exam preparation, ensuring you hit every topic before exam day.
This course is really best suited for students who want a highly structured and thorough approach to their PE exam preparation. If you’re someone who benefits from extensive study materials and a clear roadmap, School of PE is definitely worth considering. Check out my full review of School of PE, and you’ll see.
“I’m using the School of PE and love the way the professors teach and how the content is organized. When I’m ready to take PE I will definitely use them as well.”
Reddit
Key Features
- Course Format: Live Online, On-Demand, and Hybrid
- Number of Practice Questions: Over 1,000 practice problems and quizzes
- Video Lectures: Hundreds of hours of expert-led video content
- Pass Guarantee: Offers a pass guarantee, allowing a free repeat if you don’t pass.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Access Duration | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | Monthly | On-Demand | Instructor-Prepared Notes, Question Bank, Flashcards, Study Hub |
| 4-Month Access | 4 Months | On-Demand | Digital & Paperback Review Guides, Practice Exams, Question Bank, Flashcards, Study Hub, Pass Guarantee |
| 6-Month Access | 6 Months | On-Demand | All 4-Month features, extended access |
| Live Online Course | Varies by schedule | Live Online | Live Virtual Classes, Recorded Lectures, Instructor Support, All On-Demand features |
Course Discount
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Pros
- Very comprehensive and covers all exam topics in-depth.
- Flexible learning formats to fit different schedules.
- Strong team of experienced instructors.
- Offers a pass guarantee for peace of mind.
- Regularly updated course materials.
Cons
- The sheer volume of content can be overwhelming.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an all-encompassing PE exam prep course that leaves no stone unturned, School of PE is an excellent choice. I found their depth of coverage and the variety of learning options to be particularly beneficial for catering to my learning style. However, if you’re on a very tight budget or prefer a more condensed study approach, you might find it a bit much.
School of PE
2. PPI
PPI has been a cornerstone in engineering education for decades. When it comes to PE exam courses, they are synonymous with comprehensive review courses and extensive study materials.
They’ve built a solid reputation on the sheer breadth and depth of their content, and are particularly known for their iconic “reference manuals” that many professional engineers swear by. Their PE prep courses are designed to give you a robust understanding of various engineering disciplines.
PPI is ideal for professionals who prefer a highly detailed approach and aren’t afraid of a significant amount of material. If you value having every possible concept and practice problem at your fingertips, PPI’s PE exam prep offerings are a fantastic fit. They are particularly strong for those seeking a thorough civil exam review or for specialized areas where in-depth knowledge is key.
“I used PPI and felt extremely prepared for the exam. I cruised through the exam in a quarter of the allotted time.”
Reddit
Key Features
- Course Format: Live Online, On-Demand, Print materials available.
- Number of Practice Questions: Thousands of practice problems and realistic practice exams.
- Video Lectures: Extensive video lectures that break down complex topics.
- Free Repeat Policy: Often offers a free repeat of the course if you don’t pass.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Access Duration | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Study Learning Hub Bundle | Varies | Self-Study | 2,700+ practice problems, full-length exams, Qbank |
| OnDemand Course Bundle | Varies | On-Demand | 60+ hours recorded lectures, practice exams, quizzes, web books, structured study schedule |
| Live Online Course Bundle | 4-6 months (structured) | Live Online | Live classes, quizzes, practice exams, pass guarantee, prep materials access before/after course |
Course Discount
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Pros
- Unmatched depth and breadth of content.
- Highly respected and trusted brand in engineering exams.
- Excellent printed reference materials.
- Good for those who prefer to learn from detailed textbooks.
- Strong support for various engineering disciplines.
Cons
- Can be one of the more expensive options.
- The large material library can feel overwhelming.
Learn more about PPI2Pass in this review and see if its PE courses are right for you.
Bottom Line
If you’re someone who thrives on having every piece of information available and prefers a traditional, academic approach to PE exam preparation, PPI is hard to beat. I found their printed materials incredibly useful for note-taking and quick reference. However, if you’re looking for a highly streamlined or budget-friendly option, options like ASCE could be a better pick.
PPI
3. Civil Engineering Academy
Civil Engineering Academy (CEA) has carved out a niche for itself by focusing specifically on the civil PE exam. This specialization allows them to create highly targeted and relevant PE civil course content, avoiding the broad strokes you might find in more general exam prep courses. However, in my experience, I realized it also meant it was very easy to pick out the areas where they were weaker, because they stuck out like a sore thumb. Nevertheless, the “highs are high.”
Their practice exams were especially realistic; I compared the practice questions to those from NCEES practice tests, and the length and subjects were fairly similar. They also cultivate a strong community, which can be a huge motivator during your exam preparation.
This course is best suited if you are looking for a dedicated and community-driven PE civil exam review. If you appreciate a more focused approach and the ability to connect with other PE students studying for the same exam, CEA could be your ideal match. Because hey, let’s face it, “study mode” can get lonely. Further, their emphasis on direct application of knowledge through practice is a significant plus.
Key Features
- Course Format: On-demand video lectures.
- Number of Practice Questions: Over 800 practice problems and multiple full-length practice exams.
- Video Lectures: High-quality, focused video lectures specific to the civil PE breadth exam and depth sections.
- Strong Online Community: Offers support through a private Facebook group.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Access Duration | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Civil PE Review Course | 3 Months | On-Demand | Video lectures, 800+ practice problems, full practice exams, Facebook community access |
| Ultimate Civil PE Review Course | 6 Months | On-Demand | All 3-month features, extended access |
| Ultimate Civil PE Review Course | 12 Months | On-Demand | All 3-month features, extended access |
Pros
- Highly specialized in civil PE exam content.
- Excellent practice problems that mirror the PE exam.
- Strong community support for peer learning.
- Affordable pricing compared to many competitors.
Cons
- Only for civil engineering disciplines, not suitable for others.
- No traditional classroom setting option.
Bottom Line
For anyone specifically tackling the PE civil exam, Civil Engineering Academy offers a highly relevant and practical exam prep course. In particular, I appreciated their direct approach to problem-solving and the supportive community. If you’re not studying for civil, this isn’t for you, but if you are, it’s a strong contender, especially given its value.
4. ASCE
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) offers its own set of PE exam courses, leveraging its authoritative position in civil engineering. Their exam preparation materials are known for their quality and alignment with industry standards, which makes sense given their role in engineering education. These review courses are often developed by subject matter experts, providing a reliable source for your PE review.
ASCE’s PE courses are best suited for civil engineers who want to learn directly from a highly reputable professional organization. If you prefer content that aligns closely with professional guidelines and standards and you’re studying for the PE civil exam, ASCE’s offerings provide a solid foundation for your PE exam preparation.
Key Features
- Course Format: On-Demand, Live Webinar options are available.
- Video Lectures: Expert-led video lectures covering civil PE exam topics.
- Developed by the authoritative American Society of Civil Engineers.
- Access to ASCE’s extensive resources and publications.
- Focus on relevant civil engineering principles and applications.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| PE Civil On-Demand Review Courses | On-Demand | Updated content, aligned with NCEES Handbook, flexible study, quizzes, practice problems |
Pros
- Highly authoritative and reliable content.
- Courses developed by subject matter experts.
- Excellent for civil engineers seeking industry-aligned prep.
- Offers different learning formats.
Cons
- Primarily focused on the civil PE exam, limited to other disciplines.
- May not have as many flashy features as some dedicated prep companies.
- Limited instructor support, which may disappoint some students.
Bottom Line
For civil engineering professionals, ASCE’s PE courses offer an incredibly trustworthy and authoritative path to PE exam preparation. I found the content to be very aligned with what you’d expect from a leading engineering organization. If you prioritize content integrity and are a civil engineer, it’s a solid choice. However, if you’re not a civil engineer or prefer a course with more interactive bells and whistles, the School of PE or PPI may be better alternatives.
5. EET
Engineering Education & Training (EET) is another strong contender, particularly known for its specialized depth review courses for the PE exam. Many PE students, especially those tackling complex depth sections, swear by EET’s focused instruction, and I can see why. They break down challenging concepts and provide ample practice problems designed to hone your problem-solving skills, which is crucial for the actual PE exam.
EET is best suited for professional engineers who have a solid grasp of the breadth topics and are looking for highly specialized, in-depth preparation for their chosen depth exam. If you need a meticulous breakdown of specific topics and a high volume of relevant practice problems, EET’s PE exam review is a fantastic option. They truly excel in the “depth” aspect of exam preparation—I’m a finance guy, so if it made sense to me, it’ll probably make sense to you.
“I used an EET binder to prepare for breadth and it was excellent. I can only imagine the course is quality based on the materials they provide.”
Reddit
Key Features
- Course Format: Live Webinar, On-Demand.
- Video Lectures: Detailed video lectures focusing on specific depth exam areas.
- Diagnostic quizzes to pinpoint areas needing more attention.
- Experienced instructors known for their clear explanations.
- Focus on common problem types seen on the actual PE exam.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Access Duration | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-Demand Course | Varies (e.g., 10-20 weeks) | On-Demand | Recorded lectures, problem-solving demonstrations, class notes, handouts, practice problems, quizzes |
| Live Webinar Course | Varies (e.g., 10-20 weeks) | Live Webinar | Live instruction, interactive Q&A, recorded sessions, class notes, handouts, practice problems, quizzes, instructor office hours |
Pros
- Excellent for in-depth, specialized review.
- Instructors are highly knowledgeable in their fields.
- Practice problems are very representative of the exam.
Cons
- Primarily focused on the depth exam, less on the breadth.
- May not be ideal as a standalone course for full exam preparation.
- You might find fewer interactive features, like adaptive quizzes or gamified learning elements.
Bottom Line
If your main concern is acing the depth portion of your PE exam, EET is an outstanding choice. I found their specialized content and the instructors’ expertise to be incredibly valuable for those tough, niche topics. However, if you need a comprehensive course that covers both breadth and depth equally, you might consider pairing EET with another more general PE exam prep course or choosing an all-in-one provider like School of PE.
6. Excel Test Prep
Excel Test Prep provides PE exam review courses that cater to various engineering disciplines. They often emphasize structured learning with a mix of live online classes and on-demand options, aiming to give you a flexible yet disciplined approach to your PE exam preparation. Their materials typically include practice exams and detailed solutions, which are essential for understanding your mistakes and improving. However, when comparing their practice questions to other providers, I found the quality lacking against competitors like PPI.
I tried the live classes, and though they weren’t riveting, I can see them being helpful for students regardless. This course is best for PE students who prefer a structured learning environment, whether that’s in a live online setting or through a well-organized, self-paced program. If you benefit from clear instruction and a systematic progression through the PE exam curriculum, Excel Test Prep could be a good fit for your exam preparation.
Key Features
- Course Format: Live Online, On-Demand.
- Number of Practice Questions: Includes practice problems and full-length practice exams.
- Video Lectures: Expert-led video lectures covering various engineering exam topics.
- Detailed solutions and explanations for all practice problems.
- Refresher courses are available for specific topics.
- Timed practice tests to simulate actual exam conditions.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| Live Online Course | Live Online | 72 hours of live instruction, course materials, practice problems, workshops, pass guarantee |
| On-Demand Course | On-Demand | Recorded lectures, course materials, practice problems, self-paced study |
Pros
- Structured and organized course delivery.
- Offers both live and self-paced options.
- Good for those who like a traditional classroom setting feel online.
Cons
- It can be on the pricier side, especially for live online options.
- Practice questions are less exam-quality than top competitors like PPI.
- Access to materials can sometimes be limited in duration, rushing your studies.
- They may not offer a dedicated mobile app for truly on-the-go studying.
Bottom Line
Excel Test Prep offers a solid, traditional approach to PE exam preparation. I found their structured format helpful for staying on track. If you’re looking for a straightforward course that gets the job done without too many frills, this could be a good option. However, if you prefer a course with extensive community features or cutting-edge adaptive learning technology, you might explore other choices.
7. Capstone Learning Associates
Capstone Learning Associates specializes in providing PE exam reviews for specific mechanical engineering disciplines, such as Mechanical HVAC and Mechanical Thermal & Fluids.
I appreciated how their courses are designed to offer a focused and in-depth review, which can be incredibly beneficial if you’re targeting one of these specialized depth exams that aren’t appropriately covered everywhere. I also appreciated the clarity and directness of the instructors, which is a big plus when dealing with complex engineering concepts.
This course is best suited for mechanical engineering professionals aiming for specific depth exams. If you need a highly targeted review that goes deep into the content relevant to your mechanical PE exam, Capstone Learning Associates offers a concentrated and effective exam preparation solution.
Key Features
- Course Format: On-Demand.
- Number of Practice Questions: Includes practice problems and quizzes tailored to mechanical depth exams.
- Video Lectures: Focused video lectures on mechanical PE exam topics.
- Specialization in Mechanical HVAC and Thermal & Fluids.
- Emphasizes understanding key concepts and problem-solving techniques.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Format | Key Features Included | Price (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical PE Review | On-Demand | ~30 hours narrated instruction, 250+ sample problems, tutor support, reference material index, unit conversion module | $699.00 |
| ME PE Mechanical Systems and Materials | On-Demand | ~39 hours narrated instruction, sample problems, tutor support, reference material index, unit conversion module | $699.00 |
| ME PE Thermal and Fluid Systems | On-Demand | ~40 hours narrated instruction, sample problems, tutor support, reference material index, unit conversion module | $699.00 |
| Civil PE Structural Review | On-Demand | 20 hours narrated instruction, 150+ sample problems, tutor support, reference material indexes | $699.00 |
| Electrical and Computer–Power Review | On-Demand | 30 hours narrated instruction, 160+ sample problems, tutor support, reference material indexes | $699.00 |
Pros
- Highly specialized in mechanical PE exam depth sections.
- Direct and clear instruction style.
Cons
- It’s all on-demand, with no live classes if you prefer that real-time interaction.
- The platform might feel a bit less interactive than other flashy, modern courses.
- It’s focused but not a one-stop shop for all PE exam types.
- Small number of practice questions for each section.
Bottom Line
If you’re a mechanical engineer specifically taking the HVAC or Thermal & Fluids depth exam, Capstone Learning Associates provides a very targeted and efficient PE review. I appreciate their singular focus, which can be really effective. However, if you’re not in these specific mechanical disciplines or if you prefer a course with extensive external reviews, you’ll need to look at other options, like School of PE.
8. Slay the PE
Slay the PE is a name that sounds confident, and their mechanical PE exam prep course aims to deliver on that promise. They focus specifically on the Mechanical PE exam, providing a targeted approach that many PE students find effective.
Their course is built around clear explanations and plenty of practice questions, which are crucial for mastering the PE exam content. They also seem to leverage a more modern, direct style of teaching. However, I found myself yearning for some of the tried-and-true materials like adaptive learning technology, live classes, and physical resources. The “modern” approach could feel a little hollow at times—a little lifeless, if that makes sense.
This course is best for mechanical engineering professionals who are specifically aiming for the Mechanical PE exam and appreciate a straightforward, efficient study approach. If you want a course that gets straight to the point and provides solid practice for your mechanical PE exam, Slay the PE could be a decent fit for your PE exam preparation.
Key Features
- Course Format: On-Demand.
- Number of Practice Questions: Includes practice problems and full-length practice exams.
- Video Lectures: Comprehensive video lectures for the Mechanical PE exam.
- Specific focus on the Mechanical PE exam, covering all topics.
- Accessible online platform for flexible studying.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| On-Demand Course | On-Demand | Complete Study Guide (digital with print), Answers to Practice Exam, Answers to Online Diagnostic Exam “A” |
| HVAC&R Promo Course | On-Demand | Specific to HVAC&R, likely similar features as main course but targeted |
Pros
- Highly specialized for the Mechanical PE exam.
- Good amount of relevant practice questions.
Cons
- Only for Mechanical PE, not suitable for other disciplines.
- You won’t find physical textbooks or binders.
- They rely heavily on their own study guide and diagnostic exam.
- Lacks personalized adaptive learning technology.
Bottom Line
If you’re a mechanical engineer focused on crushing the Mechanical PE exam, Slay the PE offers a very targeted and effective PE prep course. I found their approach to be direct and practical for the specific mechanical exam. If you’re looking for a broad engineering exam preparation or a live classroom experience, this might not be your top pick, but for mechanical, it’s strong, even though better options are available further up the list.
9. Arrideo
Arrideo focuses on specialized PE exam review courses, particularly for the Mechanical HVAC & Refrigeration PE exam. They aim to provide a detailed and organized review that helps PE students grasp the specific concepts and problem-solving techniques needed for this niche-depth exam. Overall, I found the course relatively balanced and easy to navigate, but it never captured my attention in an engaging way.
However, their materials are often designed to be comprehensive for their target audience, providing a valuable resource for concentrated PE exam preparation. If you need a highly specialized and thorough review for this particular depth exam, Arrideo offers a focused approach to help you master the required material for the actual PE exam.
Key Features
- Course Format: On-Demand.
- Number of Practice Questions: Includes practice problems specific to Mechanical HVAC & Refrigeration.
- Video Lectures: Detailed video lectures covering the HVAC&R depth exam topics.
- Highly specialized content for the Mechanical HVAC & Refrigeration PE exam.
- Organized course materials for structured study.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC PE Preparation Exam Study Course | On-Demand | Comprehensive curriculum, flexible learning, interactive elements, definitions, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, refrigeration, economic analysis, combustion, HVAC topics |
Pros
- Extremely specialized for Mechanical HVAC & Refrigeration PE.
- In-depth coverage of a niche topic.
Cons
- It’s all on-demand and doesn’t include live classes.
- Hyperfocus on HVAC&R depth means less info on other topics.
- No student forum or community, so peer support might be harder to find.
- No physical books or binders for offline, old-school study.
- No mobile app for “portable” lessons.
Bottom Line
For mechanical engineers specifically tackling the HVAC & Refrigeration PE exam, Arrideo provides a hyper-focused and detailed PE exam review. I recognize the value of such niche specialization for depth exam preparation. However, providers like School of PE and PPI have better courses in this discipline, though they are pricier.
10. AEI
AEI (Advanced Engineering Institute) offers PE exam prep courses with a strong focus on the civil PE exam, including various depth components like Structural and Construction. They aim to provide practical, comprehensive review courses with a significant emphasis on solving problems, which is critical for the actual exam.
Their instructors are often experienced professional engineers, bringing real-world insights to the learning process.
However, there are some major cons to consider as well. It’s primarily a civil course, so if you’re interested in a different discipline, you should look elsewhere. Also, I found that it lacked a lot of the things other prep courses might provide. I missed out on live classes, and the 120 hours of lectures could feel like serious drudgery at times. As a result, this course is lower on the list.
Key Features
- Course Format: On-Demand.
- Number of Practice Questions: Includes practice problems and quizzes for civil disciplines.
- Video Lectures: Detailed video lectures covering civil PE exam topics.
- Strong emphasis on practical problem-solving and strategy.
- Experienced professional engineers as instructors.
- Offers specific courses for Civil Structural, Construction, Water Resources, etc.
Course Packages and Features
| Package Type | Format | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|
| Civil PE Structural On-Demand | On-Demand | 120 hours lectures, Homework (CBT), Mini-exams, full 8-hour Simulation Exam (80 problems), review of simulation exam solution, Class binder & Handout materials (digital) |
| Civil PE Construction On-Demand | On-Demand | Similar comprehensive features tailored to Construction depth |
Pros
- Strong focus on civil PE exam disciplines.
Cons
- Primarily focused on the civil PE exam, not for other engineering disciplines.
- Courses are segmented, requiring multiple purchases for comprehensive coverage.
- AEI’s platform can seem “old school” compared to modern online learning platforms.
- The emphasis on homework and practice activities isn’t for self-paced learners.
- Extensive materials result in a long study period.
Bottom Line
For civil engineering professionals, AEI provides a very practical and effective PE civil course, especially for the depth sections. I found their focus on real-world problem-solving to be a major advantage. If you’re preparing for a civil PE exam and want a course that teaches you how to tackle exam-style problems, AEI is an excellent option. If you’re looking for prep outside of civil engineering, you’ll need to explore other providers.
Honorable Mentions
While the top 5 courses offer stellar options, these additional providers are also worth considering for your PE exam preparation, each bringing its own strengths to the table.
Diving Deeper: Course vs Course Comparisons for PE Exam Prep
Choosing between top PE exam prep courses can be tough, as each has its unique strengths. Here, I’ll break down some common comparisons to help you make an informed decision.
School of PE vs PPI
Pick School of PE if you want a comprehensive PE exam prep course with flexible live online and on-demand options, along with a clear pass guarantee. Their structure is great for a guided study path across many engineering disciplines.
Pick PPI if… you prefer an extremely in-depth, traditional approach with extensive study materials, including classic reference manuals. PPI is excellent if you thrive on having every possible resource for your PE review.
Civil Engineering Academy vs ASCE
Pick Civil Engineering Academy if you are taking the PE Civil exam and want a highly focused, practical course with a strong online community. It’s great for targeted practice and peer support.
Pick ASCE if you are a civil engineer seeking an authoritative, industry-aligned PE civil course. Their content comes directly from a leading professional organization, offering reliable exam preparation.
EET vs Capstone Learning Associates
Pick EET if you need an exceptionally specialized and in-depth review for your PE exam’s depth section. EET is known for breaking down complex topics in very specific engineering disciplines.
Pick Capstone Learning Associates if you are a mechanical engineer specifically preparing for the Mechanical HVAC&R or Thermal & Fluids PE exam depth. They offer a highly concentrated and efficient review of these niche areas.
School of PE vs Civil Engineering Academy
Pick School of PE if you need a broader PE exam prep course covering multiple engineering disciplines or if you prefer the option of live online classes beyond just civil.
Pick Civil Engineering Academy if your sole focus is the PE civil exam, and you appreciate a more community-driven, focused, and often more affordable approach tailored specifically to civil PE.
PPI vs EET
Pick PPI if you are looking for an all-encompassing PE exam review that covers both breadth and depth in great detail, and you value extensive traditional study materials.
Pick EET if your primary need is an intense, specialized review for a particular depth exam where you want to drill down into complex topics with expert instructors.
School of PE vs ASCE
Pick School of PE if you need a comprehensive course for various engineering disciplines with flexible formats and a pass guarantee.
Pick ASCE if you are specifically a civil engineer and prioritize authoritative content directly from a leading professional society for your PE civil exam preparation.
PPI vs Excel Test Prep
Pick PPI if you desire maximum depth, extensive printed materials, and a long-standing reputation in the PE exam prep industry.
Pick Excel Test Prep if you prefer a more structured, traditional classroom-like online experience for a variety of engineering disciplines, with a focus on systematic content delivery.
Civil Engineering Academy vs Slay the PE
Pick Civil Engineering Academy if you’re a civil engineer looking for a community-focused course with strong practice exams, particularly for the civil PE.
Pick Slay the PE if you’re a mechanical engineer who wants a highly specialized, direct, and solid study approach solely for the Mechanical PE exam.
EET vs AEI
Pick EET if your main goal is an extremely in-depth dive into a very specific depth exam topic with specialized instructors.
Pick AEI if you’re a civil engineer looking for a practical, problem-solving oriented course, particularly strong for civil depth sections like Structural or Construction.
Excel Test Prep vs Capstone Learning Associates
Pick Excel Test Prep if you need a structured review for a general engineering discipline or if you prefer live online classes.
Pick Capstone Learning Associates if you are a mechanical engineer specifically preparing for the Mechanical HVAC&R or Thermal & Fluids PE exam, requiring a highly focused review.
School of PE vs Slay the PE
Pick School of PE if you need a broad, comprehensive PE exam prep course that covers multiple engineering disciplines with extensive resources and a pass guarantee.
Pick Slay the PE if you are a mechanical engineer seeking a highly specialized, direct, and efficient study plan solely for the Mechanical PE exam, with a focus on clear explanations.
PPI vs AEI
Pick PPI if you prioritize the absolute most extensive and deep dive into all aspects of the PE exam, with a vast library of study materials and a strong legacy.
Pick AEI if you’re a civil engineer who prefers a practical, problem-solving-focused approach, especially for civil depth sections taught by experienced professional engineers.
Civil Engineering Academy vs Arrideo
Pick Civil Engineering Academy if you’re a civil engineer looking for an affordable, community-driven course with excellent practice exams for the Civil PE.
Pick Arrideo if you’re a mechanical engineer specifically tackling the HVAC & Refrigeration PE exam and need a hyper-focused, in-depth review for that niche area.
ASCE vs Excel Test Prep
Pick ASCE if you are a civil engineer who values authoritative content directly from a professional society, ensuring high quality and industry alignment for your PE civil course.
Pick Excel Test Prep if you prefer a more traditional, structured, and systematic approach to PE exam preparation that covers various engineering disciplines, potentially offering live online classes.
EET vs Slay the PE
Pick EET if you need a highly specialized and thorough review for a specific depth exam with instructors who excel at breaking down complex concepts for various engineering disciplines.
Pick Slay the PE if you are a mechanical engineer focused on the Mechanical PE exam and want a direct, efficient course with plenty of practice questions tailored to that specific discipline.
If you also need to pass the SE exam, check out my comparison of the top SE prep courses.
| Provider | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $1,790 – $2,490 | $545 – $2,595+ | $797 – $1,397 | $595 – $695 | $950 – $1,250 |
| Discounts | Save $300 | Save 15% | No Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts |
| Format | Live Online, On-Demand, Hybrid | Live Online, On-Demand, Print | On-Demand, Practice Exams | On-Demand, Live Webinar | Live Webinar, On-Demand |
| Number of Practice Questions/Exams | 1,000+ | 1,000+ | 800+ | 1,000+ | 1,000+ |
| Guarantees | | | | N/A | N/A |
| Refund Policy | | | | | |
| Support | Email, Phone, Instructor support | Email, Phone, Online forum, Instructor support | Email, Facebook Group, Direct message | Email, Phone | Email, Phone, Instructor office hours |
| Best For | Comprehensive coverage, various formats | Depth of content, established reputation, print materials | Civil PE exam focus, strong community | Civil PE exam specific, authoritative content | Highly specialized depth, focused content |
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Final Verdict
Choosing the best PE exam prep course really comes down to your personal learning style and the specific engineering discipline you’re aiming for. If you’re looking for the most comprehensive and flexible options for various engineering exams, I’d lean towards the School of PE for its structured approach and pass guarantee.
For those who thrive on massive amounts of detailed content and established credibility, PPI remains a powerhouse. If the civil PE exam is your target and you appreciate a strong community with targeted practice, Civil Engineering Academy is an excellent choice.
I believe that by considering these top options and their unique strengths, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision for your PE exam preparation.
FAQs
While not strictly required, a PE exam prep course significantly increases your chances of passing by providing structured learning, comprehensive course materials, and practice exams.
Most successful PE students recommend dedicating at least 3-6 months of studying, typically around 10-20 hours per week. This allows ample time to cover all exam topics, practice problems, and take full-length practice exams.
Many general PE exam prep courses, like the School of PE and PPI, cover multiple engineering disciplines. However, some, like Civil Engineering Academy and Arrideo, specialize in specific disciplines like the PE civil exam or mechanical, HVAC&R, providing more focused content.
While full PE exam prep courses are paid, many providers offer free sample course materials, practice problems, or introductory webinars. NCEES also provides official practice exams for purchase.
The PE exam typically has a breadth section covering general engineering principles for your discipline and a depth section that delves into a specialized area within that discipline. Most PE review courses will cover both or specialize in one.
PE exams are tough, no doubt—they go deep into your specific field and test real-world problem solving. But if you’ve got solid experience and study smart, they’re absolutely passable. Most disciplines have pass rates between 50–70%.
The main requirements are an ABET-accredited engineering degree and about four years of work experience under a licensed PE. Some states may have extra requirements, like specific documentation or ethics exams, so it’s smart to double-check with your state board.
